Beyond THC and CBD: Exploring Other Cannabis Compounds

Most people recognize marijuana for its two major substances: THC, responsible for psychoactivity, and CBD, valued for its therapeutic effects. However, recent research has identified approximately 600 different chemical compounds in cannabis, and scientists are paying more and more attention to some of the less-famous ingredients. Let’s find out why!

The Main Types of Cannabis Compounds

Cannabis ingredients can be categorized into four groups:

• Cannabinoids interact with the human endocannabinoid system and influence both psychoactive and therapeutic effects. There are over 100 cannabinoids in marijuana beyond THC and CBD.
• Terpenes are volatile compounds responsible for marijuana aroma profiles.
• Flavonoids are pigments that contribute to color and may offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and other nutrients that the plant needs to grow.

Marijuana’s Minor Cannabinoids

THC and CBD are the most famous cannabinoids. THC causes the psychoactive effect, while CBD is known for helping with relaxation and fighting inflammation. Besides them, scientists have uncovered more than 100 cannabinoids with unique pharmacological profiles.

Here are three of the most interesting minor cannabinoids:

• Cannabigerol (CBG): known as “the mother of cannabinoids,” CBG is a precursor of THC and CBD. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s pretty rare in most strains which makes it even more valued.
• Cannabichromene (CBC): it is not psychoactive but may help brain cells grow — a theory still under investigation.
• Cannabinol (CBN): derived from the oxidative degradation of THC, CBN has sedative effects and is being investigated for its potential to aid sleep and reduce anxiety.

Cannabis Terpenes

Terpenes are the tiny molecules behind marijuana’s unique smell and taste — their combination can make it smell fruity, floral, or earthy depending on the blend. Terpenes don’t just add fragrance; they also boost cannabis’s effects. For example, the terpene pinene has a bronchodilation effect, and all monoterpenes (limonene, menthol and others) are known antiseptics. Scientists are now exploring if terpenes can act as antioxidants and immune boosters.
For more information, please check out our detailed cannabis terpenes review.

Cannabis Flavonoids

Flavonoids are pigments that define cannabis (and other plants) color, while their potential health benefits are currently under investigation. So far, flavonoids are among the most promising but least explored cannabis compounds in medicine.

Here are some of the most remarkable flavonoids found in marijuana:

• Cannaflavins: exclusively found in cannabis, these compounds exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects — potentially surpassing common medications like aspirin.
• Apigenin: a natural antioxidant and antiseptic also found in chamomile and celery.
• Quercetin: works as an antioxidant and antiviral, and is found in onions, berries, and apples too.
• Luteolin: has anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties and is under investigation for cancer therapy.

Minerals and Other Ingredients of Marijuana

Beyond cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, cannabis contains amino acids (the plant’s building cells), sugars (energy for growth), and a wide range of minerals and vitamins. These nutrients vary depending on strain and growing conditions and can include magnesium, potassium, calcium, copper, and zinc, as well as vitamins B, C, and E.

While these nutrients help the plant thrive, cannabis’s real medical value is still tied to its unique blend of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Researchers agree that these cannabis elements work the best in synergy rather than separately: each one boosting the others.