CBC in medical cannabis: What it is and why it matters

What is CBC in cannabis?

Cannabichromene, or CBC, is one of over one hundred known compounds known as phytocannabinoids. These compounds are unique to the cannabis plant; however, our bodies produce similar compounds (endocannabinoids) that interact with receptors within the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Similarities in structure mean that some phytocannabinoids, including CBD, can also interact with various receptors within the human body. 

You will have likely heard of other cannabinoids, namely, cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In fact, alongside these two well-known compounds (and cannabinol, or CBN), CBC is one of the four most common cannabinoids. 

So, is CBC similar to CBD? 

What about THC?

How is CBC formed?

Like CBD and THC, CBC is formed through a chain of reactions, starting with cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). This compound is converted into cannabichremenic acid (CBCA) by an enzyme called CBCA synthase. In turn, CBCA is converted into CBC through a process called decarboxylation - the removal of CO2 which typically occurs when the molecule is exposed to heat or light.

Such exposure is typical of the ageing process of cannabis. This means that CBC concentrations tend to be higher in cannabis flowers that have been cured and stored.

So now you might be wondering, if this cannabinoid is commonly present in cannabis flower, what are the effects of CBC?

While CBC, CBD, and THC may all be directly synthesised from cannabigerolic acid, they each have a unique set of effects. For example, while THC is intoxicating (it is the primary constituent responsible for the ‘high’ experienced with cannabis use), CBD and CBC are not. But that’s not to say CBC is non-psychoactive, as the compound can affect how the brain works.

Let’s take a closer look at some CBC effects:

Therapeutic benefits of CBC

While CBC is one of the most abundant cannabinoids, it has not been researched as extensively as its better known cousins, CBD and THC. Nonetheless, current evidence suggests the compound may possess some impressive therapeutic properties. 

CBC for pain and inflammation

Preclinical studies have found that CBC may be beneficial for managing pain and inflammation. 

In one animal study, CBC, in combination with CBD, “stimulated pathways of antinociception and caused analgesia by interacting with several target proteins involved in nociceptive control.” 

Another study, which tested the effects of CBD and CBC alone and in combination in a mouse model of arthritis-related inflammation, produced similar findings: CBC was associated with a decrease in the clinical markers of inflammation; however, the anti-inflammatory effect was greater when the cannabinoids were administered together. 

While these results are promising, it is important to note that these are preclinical studies and more research is needed to understand whether these effects are transferable to humans. 

Other potential therapeutic effects

Limited preclinical evidence suggests that CBC may possess antitumour and antimicrobial and antifungal potential; however, this research is in its infancy. Moreover, these effects have typically been assessed in combination with other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. 

Given the limited clinical research into the effects of the compound, our understanding of the potential side effects of CBC are also underdeveloped. However, CBC is generally considered safe when consumed in the quantities naturally found in cannabis plants. More research is needed to determine whether adverse effects may present when concentrated preparations of CBC are consumed.

Is CBC found in medical cannabis?

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, while considered a minor cannabinoid, CBC is common in many cannabis cultivars; in some it may even be the second most abundant cannabinoid. 

But is cannabichromene legal in the UK?

CBC is commonly found in many medical cannabis products, including cannabis flower and medical cannabis oils, that are prescribed in the UK. At Releaf, a number of our cannabis-based medicines naturally contain CBC. 

Cannabichromene and medical cannabis in the UK 

Medical cannabis products are only legal in the UK when prescribed by a specialist doctor. This includes cannabis-based medicines containing cannabichromene. While CBC may be present in trace amounts in over-the-counter CBD products, there is no clinical evidence to support their use for the treatment of medical conditions. 

In contrast, cannabis-based medicines can now be prescribed for the treatment of a wide range of conditions and symptoms. At Releaf, we are dedicated to providing learning resources to our patients, and anyone else interested in the potential of medical cannabis. For more information, take a look at our Blog and Education pages.

If you’re interested in accessing medical cannabis treatment, you can find out if you could be eligible using our quick and easy online Eligibility Checker. Our specialist doctors are always on hand to answer any questions or concerns regarding our tailored treatment plans.