What’s a Cannabinoid? A Simple Breakdown of THC, CBD, CBN & More
We throw the terms around all the time—THC, CBD, CBN, CBG—but do most people actually know what they do?
Cannabinoids are the active compounds in cannabis that interact with your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Each one affects you differently, and when you understand them? You can shop smarter, consume more intentionally, and use cannabis like the wellness tool it was always meant to be.
Let’s break it down in plain terms—Frankie’s style.
🌿 What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in cannabis (and in your own body, too—called endocannabinoids). They bind or interact with receptors in your brain, immune system, and nervous system, influencing things like pain, appetite, mood, inflammation, and memory.
There are over 100 known cannabinoids, but here are the most common ones you’ll hear about:
🔥 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The one that gets you high
Binds mostly to CB1 receptors in the brain
Can relieve pain, nausea, stimulate appetite, and improve sleep
High doses may cause anxiety or paranoia in some people
Frankie’s Tip: If you’re new, don’t chase the highest THC. Start low. Go slow. Let your body guide you.
💧 CBD (Cannabidiol)
Non-psychoactive (won’t get you high)
Interacts with CB2 receptors and moderates THC effects
Reduces anxiety, inflammation, and seizures
Helps with chronic pain, PTSD, and muscle recovery
Frankie’s Tip: Look for a 1:1 THC:CBD ratio if you want body relief without being too lifted.
🌙 CBN (Cannabinol)
Comes from aged THC—less potent but super relaxing
Known as the “sleep cannabinoid”
Helps with insomnia, inflammation, and pain
Frankie’s Tip: Find infused products with CBN for nighttime use—great for winding down or deeper sleep.
🌱 CBG (Cannabigerol)
Called the “mother of all cannabinoids” (it’s the chemical parent of THC and CBD)
Known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective benefits
Helps with focus, mood, and gut health (especially IBS)
Frankie’s Tip: Not always easy to find—ask your budtender if any strains or tinctures have CBG!
🌸 CBC (Cannabichromene)
Not as popular yet, but powerful
Works on pain, inflammation, and brain health
Thought to support neurogenesis (growth of brain cells!)
Frankie’s Tip: Keep your eye out—this one’s showing major promise in early research.
🧠 The Entourage Effect
Here’s where it gets magical:
Cannabinoids work better together than alone. This is called the entourage effect—when THC, CBD, terpenes, and other cannabinoids team up to create a more balanced, powerful, and therapeutic experience.
It’s why whole-plant medicine hits different than isolates or “just THC” products.
Frankie’s Belief: Nature built cannabis in harmony. We respect that. We don’t break it down—we build you up.
✨ Final Hit of Knowledge
Cannabis is a chemistry—not just a category.
Understanding cannabinoids means you can personalize your experience, meet your body’s real needs, and step away from guessing games.
So next time someone says “you want an indica or sativa?”—hit them back with:
“What’s the cannabinoid profile?”
We’re educating the block, one post at a time.
Frankie’s Corner is the people’s dispensary, and knowledge is always on the menu.
📍Up Next:
“Top 5 Terpenes & What They Actually Do”
Because smell ain’t just smell—it’s science.
Published & Written by Lyriq Manson | IG: @shespeaksezy