Introduction to CBC: The Rising Star of Minor Cannabinoids
As the cannabis industry continues to unlock the therapeutic effects of federally legal cannabinoids, minor cannabinoids are becoming a central focus of clinical research. Research institutes, hemp and cannabis brands, and consumers alike have embraced the growing potential of minor cannabinoids—particularly compounds like cannabichromene, or CBC.
Ongoing research points to multiple clinical applications for CBC isolate, and cannabis innovators are responding with new products and formulas that create a targeted and replicable effect. But today’s brand leaders need an insider’s look into CBC as they consider this bliss-inducing, inflammation-fighting, and pain-reducing minor cannabinoid.
This guide is a quick primer on all things CBC: current clinical knowledge, its market presence, and recent sales insights. Plus, we’ll break down how FloraWorks can help today’s hemp and cannabis brands navigate an ever-changing market and boost their bottom lines.
CBC 101: A BRIEF OVERVIEW
So, what is cannabichromene, or CBC? Cannabis industry professionals likely already know that there are two major cannabinoid categories:
- Major cannabinoids – THC and CBD
- Minor cannabinoids – The more than 100 additional cannabinoid compounds found in various strains of the Cannabis sativa plant, typically in lower concentrations than THC and CBD
CBC is a minor cannabinoid, and it hasn’t received as much attention as its major counterparts in cannabis culture, scientific research, and product development—until recently.
Clinical researchers are investing in minor cannabinoids more than ever before, and consumers have responded to new research findings with undeniable demand—we’ll explore all of these data below.
The bottom line: In a market saturated with products that aren’t meaningfully different from one another, CBC offers cannabis brands a uniquely low-cost opportunity to innovate their way to valuable product differentiation.
CBC BENEFITS: BACKED BY SCIENCE
Much of the increased demand for CBC can be attributed to recently published scientific data. Let’s dive into the details of CBC isolate in a clinical context.
MOOD BOOSTING POTENTIAL
CBC has been shown to elevate levels of anandamide—the chemical commonly referred to as “the bliss molecule.” As its name implies, the brain produces this chemical to promote feelings of happiness and to dampen feelings of fear and anxiety.
CBC’s ability to enhance natural levels of this chemical not only makes this minor cannabinoid a potentially powerful therapeutic solution for anxiety and depression, but it also makes it appealing to the wide range of consumers interested in a simple, non-intoxicating daily mood boost.
ANTI INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
A recent study determined that CBC is a CB2 receptor agonist with the potential to modulate inflammation. But what does that mean?
- The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) features two receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 is mostly distributed in the central nervous system (CNS) while CB2 is mostly found throughout the immune system.
- CBC agonizes (or activates) CB2 receptors. Since CB2 is an immune system receptor, one of its many functions is to regulate immune system activity, including inflammatory response.
- Since CBC does not interact with CB1 receptors (which, when activated, produce an intoxication response), CBC can play a role in inflammatory regulation without psychoactive effects.
It’s important to note that both this recent study and one of its predecessors (a 2012 study that explored how CBC can modulate immune responses in the GI tract) used rodent models and isolated mouse cells for study. But the results are promising, and experiments on human cells are likely on the horizon.
ENTOURAGE EFFECT
The entourage effect was, until recently, a long-standing hypothesis. Two recent studies have clarified key facts about the entourage effect:
- Terpene compounds work in tandem with cannabinoids to produce unique physiological effects.
- The different major and minor cannabinoids work together (independently from terpenes) to create specific physiological responses.
While the term “entourage effect” is only recently in vogue in clinical research, the positive effects of administering CBC in combination with THC specifically have been well-documented for over a decade. One study from 2010 discovered that:
- The combination of THC and CBC reduced symptoms of edema (trapped fluids causing inflammation) in mice.
- THC enhanced the pharmacological effects (in this study, inflammation reduction) of CBC, increasing its efficacy in mouse subjects.
Barring a few studies like this one, CBC’s specific role in the entourage effect isn’t well understood—at least not yet. With more in-depth studies in progress, researchers can continue to unlock new, clinically significant information about CBC’s interaction with other cannabinoids.
WHY FORMULATE WITH CBC?
The clinical research findings above are perhaps reason enough to invest in CBC formulations. But why else might today’s cannabis and hemp brands introduce CBC to their inventories?
- The “canna-curious” are often looking for a non-psychoactive introduction – For consumers who have never tried a cannabis-based product before, potential intoxicating effects can be intimidating—especially for those consumers looking for therapeutic or clinical relief. Since CBC isn’t psychoactive, it can offer consumers a soft entry into the world of cannabis and hemp and build a bridge for brands to reach first-time users or skeptics.
- Mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory products are a hit with consumers – In 2022, the mood support supplements market reached $656 million in total sales worldwide—a metric that’s expected to break the billion-dollar high water mark by 2033. Similarly, market experts expect inflammation-related supplement product sales to continue to grow in multiple age groups throughout the next decade. Clinical research has already begun to uncover the anti inflammatory and mood modulation properties of CBC and consumers are already creating demand.
- CBC products are still novel – The hemp and cannabis market is saturated with THC and CBD products. CBC formulations present an opportunity to showcase a unique product to both long-time cannabis customers and newcomers alike. Especially for up-and-coming brands, introducing CBC formulas could simply help companies stand out in a sea of THC and CBD providers.
CBC IN THE MARKET: BRANDS THAT STAND OUT
To meet consumer demand for CBC, many of today’s cannabis brands are including CBC isolate in formulas for products like:
- Beverages
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Softgels and pills
- Vapes, concentrates, and other combustible products
Here’s a snapshot of some brands that are already implementing CBC formulas with success (and their CBC products):
- Wyld Blood Orange Gummies – 1:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg THC)
- Baked Bros Happy Gummies – 1:1:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg CBD, 100mg THC)
- Betty’s Eddies Ache Aways (50mg CBC, 200mg CBD, 50mg THC,)
- TasteBudz C-suite Gummies – 2:2:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg CBG, 50mg THC)
- Innocent Pain B-Gone Topical Balm – 1:1:1:1 (50mg CBC, 50mg CBN, 50mg CBD, 50mg THC)
CBC SALES ARE POISED TO EXPLODE: A DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHT
Cannabis brands are formulating CBC products to meet consumer demand—but how are those products performing? Recent sales data indicate that:
- YOY CBC-infused edible growth was 1260% from Q2 2022 to Q2 2023.
- CBC-infused edible sales jumped from $1,025,878 in Q1 2023 to $5,330,047 Q2 2023—an astounding 419%.
- Only 7 brands in nine major markets (AZ, CA, CO, IL, MA, MI, NV, OR, and WA) currently offer a CBC-infused edible.
The numbers are clear: demand is only increasing for CBC products, and today’s brands have an opportunity to serve new niches, create innovative formulas, and grow their market share.
FLORAWORKS: YOUR CBC ALLY
As today’s brands embrace the future of the cannabis industry—and the growing demand for formulas with CBC—they need a supplier that delivers consistent, high-quality minor cannabinoid ingredients that are worthy of their products.
In addition to products like CBN, CBG, and CBC isolate for sale, FloraWorks offers numerous solutions for brands, like:
- Regulatory guidance – FloraWorks has the perspective and expertise to guide brands through an ever-changing regulatory landscape. Navigate the often murky waters of cannabis industry compliance with ease.
- Market insights – The FloraWorks team always keeps our ears to the ground—we’re here to help our partners parse market trends and produce formulas that keep customers coming back.
- Specialized formulation and isolation – As a science-focused supply chain partner, FloraWorks has the tools and connections to help our partners create specialized, one-of-a-kind formulas that harness the full therapeutic potential of cannabinoids.
We’re so much more than a supplier. FloraWorks is a strategic partner offering a science-based, growth-aligned approach to cannabis products. If you’re ready to discover a growth-centered partnership, let’s start a conversation.
Sources:
Frontiers in Pharmacology. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8669157/
Acta Pharmacologica Sinica. Brain Activity of Anandamide: A Rewarding Bliss?. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6460372/
British Journal of Pharmacology. Inhibitory Effect of Cannabichromene, a Major Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoid Extracted from Cannabis sativa, on Inflammation-Induced Hypermotility in Mice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3417459/
British Journal of Pharmacology. Cannabichromene is a Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonist. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6932936/
International Journal of Molecular Science. Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694
Alcohol. A Review of the Interactions between Alcohol and the Endocannabinoid System: Implications for Alcohol Dependence and Future Directions for Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3327810/#
Fact.MR. Mood Support Supplements Market. https://www.factmr.com/report/mood-support-supplements-market
Fact.MR. Inflammation Supplements Market. https://www.factmr.com/report/1999/inflammation-supplements-market
The University of Arizona Health Sciences. Study Shows Cannabis Terpenes Provide Pain Relief, Contribute to ‘Entourage Effect’. https://healthsciences.arizona.edu/newsroom/news-releases/2021/study-shows-cannabis-terpenes-provide-pain-relief-contribute-entourage
The University of Sydney. ‘An entourage effect’: new clues on how low-dose CBD products work. https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2021/07/22/entourage-effect-clues-how-low-dose-cannabinoid-cbd-products-work.html
Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence. Pharmacological Evaluation of the Natural Constituent of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabichromene and its Modulation by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2967639/
As the cannabis industry continues to unlock the therapeutic effects of federally legal cannabinoids, minor cannabinoids are becoming a central focus of clinical research. Research institutes, hemp and cannabis brands, and consumers alike have embraced the growing potential of minor cannabinoids—particularly compounds like cannabichromene, or CBC.
Ongoing research points to multiple clinical applications for CBC isolate, and cannabis innovators are responding with new products and formulas that create a targeted and replicable effect. But today’s brand leaders need an insider’s look into CBC as they consider this bliss-inducing, inflammation-fighting, and pain-reducing minor cannabinoid.
This guide is a quick primer on all things CBC: current clinical knowledge, its market presence, and recent sales insights. Plus, we’ll break down how FloraWorks can help today’s hemp and cannabis brands navigate an ever-changing market and boost their bottom lines.
CBC 101: A Brief Overview
So, what is cannabichromene, or CBC? Cannabis industry professionals likely already know that there are two major cannabinoid categories:
- Major cannabinoids – THC and CBD
- Minor cannabinoids – The more than 100 additional cannabinoid compounds found in various strains of the Cannabis sativa plant, typically in lower concentrations than THC and CBD
CBC is a minor cannabinoid, and it hasn’t received as much attention as its major counterparts in cannabis culture, scientific research, and product development—until recently.
Clinical researchers are investing in minor cannabinoids more than ever before, and consumers have responded to new research findings with undeniable demand—we’ll explore all of these data below.
The bottom line: In a market saturated with products that aren’t meaningfully different from one another, CBC offers cannabis brands a uniquely low-cost opportunity to innovate their way to valuable product differentiation.
CBC Benefits: Backed by Science
Much of the increased demand for CBC can be attributed to recently published scientific data. Let’s dive into the details of CBC isolate in a clinical context.
Mood Boosting Potential
CBC has been shown to elevate levels of anandamide—the chemical commonly referred to as “the bliss molecule.” As its name implies, the brain produces this chemical to promote feelings of happiness and to dampen feelings of fear and anxiety.
CBC’s ability to enhance natural levels of this chemical not only makes this minor cannabinoid a potentially powerful therapeutic solution for anxiety and depression, but it also makes it appealing to the wide range of consumers interested in a simple, non-intoxicating daily mood boost.
Anti Inflammatory Properties
A recent study determined that CBC is a CB2 receptor agonist with the potential to modulate inflammation. But what does that mean?
- The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) features two receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 is mostly distributed in the central nervous system (CNS) while CB2 is mostly found throughout the immune system.
- CBC agonizes (or activates) CB2 receptors. Since CB2 is an immune system receptor, one of its many functions is to regulate immune system activity, including inflammatory response.
- Since CBC does not interact with CB1 receptors (which, when activated, produce an intoxication response), CBC can play a role in inflammatory regulation without psychoactive effects.
It’s important to note that both this recent study and one of its predecessors (a 2012 study that explored how CBC can modulate immune responses in the GI tract) used rodent models and isolated mouse cells for study. But the results are promising, and experiments on human cells are likely on the horizon.
Entourage Effect
The entourage effect was, until recently, a long-standing hypothesis. Two recent studies have clarified key facts about the entourage effect:
- Terpene compounds work in tandem with cannabinoids to produce unique physiological effects.
- The different major and minor cannabinoids work together (independently from terpenes) to create specific physiological responses.
While the term “entourage effect” is only recently in vogue in clinical research, the positive effects of administering CBC in combination with THC specifically have been well-documented for over a decade. One study from 2010 discovered that:
- The combination of THC and CBC reduced symptoms of edema (trapped fluids causing inflammation) in mice.
- THC enhanced the pharmacological effects (in this study, inflammation reduction) of CBC, increasing its efficacy in mouse subjects.
Barring a few studies like this one, CBC’s specific role in the entourage effect isn’t well understood—at least not yet. With more in-depth studies in progress, researchers can continue to unlock new, clinically significant information about CBC’s interaction with other cannabinoids.
Why Formulate with CBC?
The clinical research findings above are perhaps reason enough to invest in CBC formulations. But why else might today’s cannabis and hemp brands introduce CBC to their inventories?
- The “canna-curious” are often looking for a non-psychoactive introduction – For consumers who have never tried a cannabis-based product before, potential intoxicating effects can be intimidating—especially for those consumers looking for therapeutic or clinical relief. Since CBC isn’t psychoactive, it can offer consumers a soft entry into the world of cannabis and hemp and build a bridge for brands to reach first-time users or skeptics.
- Mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory products are a hit with consumers – In 2022, the mood support supplements market reached $656 million in total sales worldwide—a metric that’s expected to break the billion-dollar high water mark by 2033. Similarly, market experts expect inflammation-related supplement product sales to continue to grow in multiple age groups throughout the next decade. Clinical research has already begun to uncover the anti inflammatory and mood modulation properties of CBC and consumers are already creating demand.
- CBC products are still novel – The hemp and cannabis market is saturated with THC and CBD products. CBC formulations present an opportunity to showcase a unique product to both long-time cannabis customers and newcomers alike. Especially for up-and-coming brands, introducing CBC formulas could simply help companies stand out in a sea of THC and CBD providers.
CBC in the Market: Brands that Stand Out
To meet consumer demand for CBC, many of today’s cannabis brands are including CBC isolate in formulas for products like:
- Beverages
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Softgels and pills
- Vapes, concentrates, and other combustible products
Here’s a snapshot of some brands that are already implementing CBC formulas with success (and their CBC products):
- Wyld Blood Orange Gummies – 1:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg THC)
- Baked Bros Happy Gummies – 1:1:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg CBD, 100mg THC)
- Betty’s Eddies Ache Aways (50mg CBC, 200mg CBD, 50mg THC,)
- TasteBudz C-suite Gummies – 2:2:1 (100mg CBC, 100mg CBG, 50mg THC)
- Innocent Pain B-Gone Topical Balm – 1:1:1:1 (50mg CBC, 50mg CBN, 50mg CBD, 50mg THC)
CBC Sales are Poised to Explode: A Data-Driven Insight
Cannabis brands are formulating CBC products to meet consumer demand—but how are those products performing? Recent sales data indicate that:
- YOY CBC-infused edible growth was 1260% from Q2 2022 to Q2 2023.
- CBC-infused edible sales jumped from $1,025,878 in Q1 2023 to $5,330,047 Q2 2023—an astounding 419%.
- Only 7 brands in nine major markets (AZ, CA, CO, IL, MA, MI, NV, OR, and WA) currently offer a CBC-infused edible.
The numbers are clear: demand is only increasing for CBC products, and today’s brands have an opportunity to serve new niches, create innovative formulas, and grow their market share.
FloraWorks: Your CBC Ally
As today’s brands embrace the future of the cannabis industry—and the growing demand for formulas with CBC—they need a supplier that delivers consistent, high-quality minor cannabinoid ingredients that are worthy of their products.
In addition to products like CBN, CBG, and CBC isolate for sale, FloraWorks offers numerous solutions for brands, like:
- Regulatory guidance – FloraWorks has the perspective and expertise to guide brands through an ever-changing regulatory landscape. Navigate the often murky waters of cannabis industry compliance with ease.
- Market insights – The FloraWorks team always keeps our ears to the ground—we’re here to help our partners parse market trends and produce formulas that keep customers coming back.
- Specialized formulation and isolation – As a science-focused supply chain partner, FloraWorks has the tools and connections to help our partners create specialized, one-of-a-kind formulas that harness the full therapeutic potential of cannabinoids.
We’re so much more than a supplier. FloraWorks is a strategic partner offering a science-based, growth-aligned approach to cannabis products. If you’re ready to discover a growth-centered partnership, let’s start a conversation.
Sources:
Frontiers in Pharmacology. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8669157/
Acta Pharmacologica Sinica. Brain Activity of Anandamide: A Rewarding Bliss?. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6460372/
British Journal of Pharmacology. Inhibitory Effect of Cannabichromene, a Major Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoid Extracted from Cannabis sativa, on Inflammation-Induced Hypermotility in Mice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3417459/
British Journal of Pharmacology. Cannabichromene is a Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonist. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6932936/
International Journal of Molecular Science. Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694
Alcohol. A Review of the Interactions between Alcohol and the Endocannabinoid System: Implications for Alcohol Dependence and Future Directions for Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3327810/#
Fact.MR. Mood Support Supplements Market. https://www.factmr.com/report/mood-support-supplements-market
Fact.MR. Inflammation Supplements Market. https://www.factmr.com/report/1999/inflammation-supplements-market
The University of Arizona Health Sciences. Study Shows Cannabis Terpenes Provide Pain Relief, Contribute to ‘Entourage Effect’. https://healthsciences.arizona.edu/newsroom/news-releases/2021/study-shows-cannabis-terpenes-provide-pain-relief-contribute-entourage
The University of Sydney. ‘An entourage effect’: new clues on how low-dose CBD products work. https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2021/07/22/entourage-effect-clues-how-low-dose-cannabinoid-cbd-products-work.html
Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence. Pharmacological Evaluation of the Natural Constituent of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabichromene and its Modulation by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2967639/
