HERE COME THE MINORS

MARCH 24, 2020

When one thinks about Cannabinoids the first letters that typically come to mind are THC and CBD -- but that is beginning to change. Since there are over 105 different cannabinoids already identified, it was only a matter of time before growers, geneticists, and breeders started shifting their attention to what are currently called the “Minor” Cannabinoids.

The Ones We Know

Even in the dominant world of THC and CBD we are already paying increased attention to similar compounds such as THCa and CBDa, the acidic forms of each of these better known cannabinoids. Yet we’re still barely scratching the surface of what is available within the hemp plant. Quickly gaining popularity are CBG the “master molecule;” CBN, a breakdown product of THC sometimes referred to as the “sleep” cannabinoid; and CBC a possible anti tumor compound. A handful of leading labs are already extracting and converting these “minor” cannabinoids into isolate and distillate.

Beyond these somewhat familiar minor cannabinoids are a number of others. Recent research by a team of Italian scientists examined the minor cannabinoid known as cannabimovone (CBM). The team is researching its ability to engage with a receptor type that helps regulate both metabolic and immune functions with implications for future investigation into the treatment of a variety of disease states.

Additionally, a team of Italian researchers in the journal Nature published news on the first-ever isolation of two newly-named natural cannabinoids: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) and cannabidiphorol (CBDP).

Farmers Respond

We are also seeing a shift in the field as farmers grow cultivars bred higher in minor cannabinoids, specifically CBG and lower in total THC to help meet the new 2018 Farm Bill requirements. We can anticipate a growing trend toward product differentiation according to different cannabinoid profiles and their associated benefits. For anyone involved in the biochemistry of low THC cannabis a lifetime of discoveries await you.

The Ones We Do Not Know

With over 100 identified cannabinoids we have studied and observed only a small percentage. For example, other cannabinoids similar in structure to the cannabinoid THC, such as THCa, THCv, THCva, have differences still being learned. While we have rapidly growing anecdotal evidence, very little completed and peer reviewed studies have been conducted. 

Then there’s the relatively unknown cannabinoids including: Cannabichromene (CBC), cannabicyclol (CBL), Cannabielsoin (CBE), Cannabivarin (CBV), Cannabitriol (CBT), Cannabifuran (CBF), Cannabiripsol (CBR) and let’s not to leave out … 3,4,5,6-Tetrahydro-7-hydroxy-alpha-alpha-2-trimethyl-9-n-propyl-2,6-methano-2H-1-benzoxocin-5-methanol, or OH-iso-HHCV to its friends.

The opportunities for professional research and securing intellectual property are massive. Much is to be learned and existing or future companies have the chance to become extremely successful.

The World of Synthetics

Like aspirin and insulin before it, cannabinoids are starting to be made synthetically in laboratories around the world. These biologically identical compounds are still considered questionable when farmers spend their lives growing plants with these same compounds.

People express strong pros and cons about synthetic cannabinoids. Whether we like it or not, these lab-created compounds are beginning to be produced and will only grow unless legislation places restriction on their manufacturing.

For anyone interested in this part of the industrial hemp industry, there are significant opportunities for growth. This work requires a highly skilled workforce, deep investment in facilities and equipment, and an understanding of the rules and regulations of the pharmaceutical arena to be successful. Synthetic cannabinoids will be an area to keenly watch. 

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By Zev Paiss: Co-Founder and Chief Moderator of RAWmarket.place

Zev has been deeply involved as a leader in the U.S. hemp industry since late 2012. He was the creator and founding Executive Director of the National Hemp Association, and co-founder of the Hemp Marketplace. He regularly consults with individuals, companies, and organizations on many aspects of industrial hemp.

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