CBC: Cannabichromene
CBC, or cannabichromene, is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid produced by cannabis plants, and found in some cannabis-based medicines.
First isolated more than 50 years ago, Cannabichromene is regarded by researchers to be one of the more influential cannabinoids from a therapeutic standpoint. CBC is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that may have a positive influence on a number of health conditions.
What are cannabinoids?
There are three groups of cannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids are produced naturally in the human body, phytocannabinoids come from plants, and synthetic cannabinoids are man-made. All three act on the body's endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating homeostasis (balance).
By interacting with the cannabinoid receptors (along with other receptors), cannabinoids can potentially affect a wide range of bodily functions and systems, including pain sensation, mood, sleep, and immune response.
What health concerns does CBC potentially help with?
More research is needed before any definitive claims can be made, but studies have shown that CBC may have anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and analgesic effects. It has also been shown to potentially inhibit the growth of cancer cells, but more indepth research is needed before any anti-tumor claims can be confirmed.
Can patients in the UK access CBC for medical purposes?
Currently, there are very few CBPMs that contain elevated levels of CBC.
However, it is possible to find CBC in combination with other cannabinoids in some dried flower products, and in full-spectrum and broad-spectrum medical cannabis oils, edibles, and topicals. Medical cannabis can only be accessed in the UK with a prescription from a specialist who is listed on the Specialist Register of the General Medica Council (GMC).
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.