Cannabichromene (CBC) is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids from the hemp plant. Where CBD and CBN now have an audience of their own, little has been written about CBC. Time to put that right: in this article you can read what CBC is, how it compares with the better-known cannabinoids and how you use CBC oil.
What exactly is CBC?
CBC is a natural compound from the hemp plant, just like CBD and THC. The three even have the same origin: all three arise from the same mother compound in the plant, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). Depending on which enzyme goes to work on it, that mother compound is converted towards CBD, THC or CBC. CBC was discovered back in the sixties, which makes it one of the longest-known cannabinoids, even though it always stayed in the shadow of the two big names.
Important to know: CBC is not psychoactive. So it does not get you high, any more than CBD does.
How does CBC work in the body?
Like other cannabinoids, CBC interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the network of receptors found in all mammals. What is notable about CBC is that it barely binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain; with this cannabinoid researchers look mainly at other points of action in the body. What that interaction means for people exactly is still being researched.
CBC, CBD and CBN: the differences
The names resemble one another, but the three cannabinoids each have their own story:
- Origin: CBD and CBC are both formed directly in the plant, each by its own route from CBGA. CBN is the odd one out: it only arises when THC breaks down under the influence of oxygen and light.
- Amount in the plant: hemp contains a lot of CBD and only small amounts of CBC and CBN. That is why the range revolves mainly around CBD and the other two are niche products.
- Research: by far the most research has been done into CBD. CBC and CBN are both still at the beginning; there are pointers from lab research, but no hard conclusions for humans.
- Psychoactivity: none of the three gets you high.
Many users therefore do not see CBC as a replacement for CBD, but as an addition alongside it. In full spectrum products the cannabinoids occur naturally together.
CBC and research
Research into CBC is really still in its infancy. Many studies are small or carried out in the lab, often with CBC in combination with other cannabinoids. That gives pointers, but no hard conclusions for humans yet.
There are no EU-approved health claims for CBC. It is a food supplement, not a medicine and not a replacement for medical care. Do you take medication, are you pregnant or breastfeeding? Then consult your doctor first.
Using CBC oil
Our CBC oil is full spectrum: alongside CBC the oil contains the other compounds from the plant, including the basis for the entourage effect. You take the oil the way you are used to with CBD oil:
- Use: put the number of drops you want under your tongue, let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds and then swallow. This way the CBC is absorbed through the mucous membranes.
- Dose: start with a low dose and see calmly how your body responds. We advise 2 to 3 drops per moment of intake. Our 5% oil contains about 2 mg of CBC per drop.
- Timing: many people take the oil two to three times a day, preferably with a meal for better absorption.
Frequently asked questions about CBC
Does CBC get you high?
No. CBC is not psychoactive. At the doses common in supplements it does not get you high, any more than CBD or CBN does.
What is the difference between CBC and CBD?
Both arise directly in the hemp plant and both are non-psychoactive. The biggest difference is in the amount (hemp contains a lot of CBD and little CBC) and in the state of the research: much research has been done into CBD, little into CBC as yet.
Can you use CBC together with CBD?
Yes, you can. In full spectrum oil the cannabinoids occur naturally together. Many users deliberately choose that combination because of the entourage effect.
Trying CBC yourself?
Are you curious about this lesser-known cannabinoid? Have a look at our CBC oil full spectrum 5%. Questions? Feel free to get in touch, we are happy to help.
