What is CBC? (Cannabichromene)

As it is well-known, cannabis plants contain cannabinoids. This time we are going to talk about CBC, a cannabinoid that was first discovered in 1966 by Gaoni and Mechoulam (this last one also discovered THC). Another scientist called Claussen discovered it at the same time.

Cannabichromene chemical structure

This cannabinoid comes from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) after its decomposition due to decarboxylation. CBC shares chemical structures with other cannabinoids such as THC or CBD: 21 carbon atoms, 30 of hydrogen and 2 oxygen ones, C21H30O2.

This cannabinoid is found in young plants. The older the plant the less cannabichromene content it will have. To achieve the highest possible levels, plants will have to mature as little as possible.

As with other cannabinoids, including CBC, only 1% concentration levels will be found after properly curing and drying the buds. The Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 hasn’t included CBC in its list, therefore, to this day it is not an illegal substance.

Because it shares some molecular structure with THC, some countries might use it to prohibit the consumption, sale, harvest or study of cannabichromene (CBC). This cannabinoid boils at 220 Celsius degrees.

CBC Effects and Benefits

This cannabinoid has not been as researched as others but its possible effects are very impressive and some early-stage research show that it could have a lot of therapeutic potential.

Its benefits could range from antiviral, pain killer, antidepressant, neuroprotector to anti-inflammatory properties, etc. It could also be helpful in nociceptive pain because it alters the intensity of sensory pain receptors.

Some studies reckon that CBC could be a good alternative to acne pills, which would turn CBC into a great alternative to other more harmful treatments.

In 2011 the Endocannabinoid Investigation Group performed some studies and concluded that CBC and CBD could help with different types of pains and medical conditions, but they need to perform trials in humans to determine their effects.

It could be a powerful cancer fighter. Another study showed that CBC inhibited the growth and inflammation of tumors in mice due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system.

CBC seems to be a promising cannabis cannabinoid that could well offer great benefits to medicine in years to come.

How Cannabichromene Works With Other Cannabinoids

Although CBC has plenty of benefits on its own, some researchers think that it seems to synergistically work with other cannabinoids. This effect is known as the entourage effect.

Rich in CBC Strains

In the cannabis world it is easy to find strains with high concentrations of well-known cannabinoids, like THC.

Growers have been more focused on cannabinoids with psychotropic effects like THC, therefore, finding strains with high CBC levels is hard.

CBC levels have been decreasing over the years but in the 70’s it was the second most abundant cannabinoid.

Landrace strains are types of cannabis plants that have been growing in isolated areas over generations. They e are more likely to have good CBC concentrations as they haven’t been crossbred over the years.

Strains That haven’t Changed Much

CBC was originally found in tropical and Indian strains.  If you want to find some of these original strains you’ll have to travel a bit.

Here are some examples of strains that have suffered minimal breeding or have been bred with similar strains over the years:

Acapulco Gold (sativa):

Acapulco Gold is a sativa strain that has a very powerful effect. It will turn all your thoughts into positive ones and your body will feel fully relaxed.

When grown indoors it can reach 1.5m of height and yield 550g./m2. Outdoors it can reach 2m of height  and yield 600gr./plant.

Hindu Kush (Indica):

Hindu Kush has a powerful and long-lasting effect. It can be very relaxing and therapeutic.

When grown indoors it can reach up to 1m height and yield 400gr./m2. Outdoors it can reach 2m of height and yield up to 400gr./plant.

Durban Poison (Sativa):

Durban Poison is an African strain with very potent psychotropic and energetic effects.

When grown indoors it can reach 1.5m height  and yield 550gr./m2. Outdoors it can reach 3m of height  and yield up to 600gr./plant.