All About CBC

With the growing popularity of CBD and hemp extracts, cannabis research has picked up over the past decade. As scientists have been digging deeper into what makes cannabis such a powerful wellness ally, new cannabinoids have been coming to light and showing promise for major impacts on the body.

One of these cannabinoids that’s gaining increased attention is cannabichromene (CBC). CBC is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. It’s directly synthesized from CBDA and, much like its cousins CBD and THC, contributes to the entourage effect of full-spectrum hemp extracts. However, before we dive into the unique properties of CBC, it’s important to first explore how the entire family of phytocannabinoids interact with the body.

How phytocannabinoids work together

The cannabis plant contains over 110+ phytocannabinoids alongside terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. These phytocannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is one of the largest neurotransmitter networks in the body. This system’s main responsibility is to maintain homeostasis throughout various organs, processes, and functions from conception to death. 

The ECS consists of millions of receptors that are scattered throughout the brain and body. While there are many different types of receptors in this system, CB1 and CB2 receptors are among the most well-known and studied. CB1 receptors are located within your central nervous system, brain, and spinal cord; CB2 receptors are primarily concentrated in the peripheral nervous system, immune system, brain, and gut. 

All vertebrates are equipped with an endocannabinoid system and as such are able to make use of phytocannabinoids such as CBD and CBC to keep this system in balance. In fact, phytocannabinoids are essential to making sure the endocannabinoid system (ECS) functions properly. While phytocannabinoids can be found in several different plants, cannabis is one of the most abundant sources. 

Additionally, the power of phytocannabinoids is strengthened when they work together, especially in conjunction with other plant compounds. The “entourage effect” is a common phrase used to describe how the effects of CBD can be strengthened when taken with other cannabinoids such as THC, CBG, or CBC. Essentially, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

How CBC works

While phytocannabinoids tend to work best together, they don’t all have the same properties or methods of interacting with the ECS. In this case, CBC behaves a bit differently from CBD and THC. Unlike CBD, CBC is a selective agonist of the CB2 receptor but binds poorly to the CB1 receptor. By contrast, THC is a direct agonist of the CB1 receptor and this interaction is what causes the intoxicating effect that people associate with recreational cannabis products. 

What are the benefits of CBC?

In addition to supporting the entourage effect, CBC has also been shown to support healthy inflammatory markers, brain cell activity, focus, and clarity.† Additionally, when paired with CBD, the two cannabinoids support a healthy immune system and can help manage day-to-day stress.†

You can experience these benefits for yourself by shopping Bluebird’s new Clarify CBC + CBD Oil! This unique full-spectrum formula includes 10 mg of CBD plus 5 mg of CBC, blended with organic rosemary essential oil to soothe and uplift the body and mind.

Clarify was designed to be the perfect addition to our AM/PM duo, Uplift and Downshift, so that you can build a full-day CBD routine with ease. Use Clarify in the mid-afternoon to keep your mind sharp through the post-lunch slump, or whenever you need some extra support for focus and energy.†