If you’re dealing with pain, anxiety, insomnia or a host of other issues, you may have heard about the therapeutic benefits of hemp-derived cannabinoids — non-intoxicating derivatives of the hemp plant. The best known of these is CBD, but its close cousins CBG and CBN also have some impressive benefits.
Scientific studies, as well as a wealth of personal success stories, indicate some patients may find relief. From behind the counter at Fatty’s Smoke Shops, manager Matt Addotta hears them every day.
“One of our regular customers, a woman about 75 or 80, suffers from joint pain and also has neuropathy in her foot,” he said. “She told me that CBD is the only thing that helps her manage her pain, so that she can enjoy the rest of her life.”
For another customer, one with a high-pressure job and insomnia, the life-changing cannabinoid was CBN.
“When she first came in several years ago, she was only sleeping two or three hours a night, and CBN edibles turned out to be a godsend for her. She takes them every day about two hours before she goes to bed and gets a full eight hours of sleep every night.” Of course, your results may vary.
Which cannabinoid — or combination of them — is best for you?
Our bodies have cannabinoid receptors, which play an important role in many body processes, including pain, anxiety, metabolism and more. Each type of cannabinoid produces slightly different effects when it interacts with the receptors.
CBD (cannabidiol) is the most abundant cannabinoid found in hemp. It helps relieve pain and inflammation and is thought to be neuroprotective, meaning it may protect nerve cells against damage and degeneration. It may also help you relax.
“I recommend CBD for things like chronic back pain and anxiety,” said Addotta. “It’s even good for post-workout recovery.”
However, if you need to stay sharp and focused, not more relaxed, then CBG (cannabigerol) would be a better choice for pain and inflammation. Preliminary studies show that it may also fight bacteria and protect against infections.
Another interesting difference between the two is that CBD can curb your appetite, which is great if you want to lose weight. On the other hand, CBG can increase appetite, a plus for those who want to bulk up a bit.
The less potent CBN (cannabinoid) is extracted from hemp-derived plants and cannabis. The process involves exposing the plant to light and heat causing the THC to degrade and decompose. CBN is non-intoxicating and is known for its sedative effects that some users say may help with sleep.
“CBN has similar traits like THC but helps you relax and sleep without intoxication,” said Addotta. It helps some people get a full night's sleep, so when they wake up, they don't feel like they've been tossing and turning all night.
You can take these cannabinoids individually, but Addotta often recommends taking a broad- or full-spectrum combination of all three — great for people who need it for more than one purpose or want a more balanced effect.
Full spectrum, broad spectrum and isolates
Full spectrum extract contains, as the name implies, the full plant and trace amounts of THC, usually under 0.3%, while broad spectrum extracts have the THC completely removed.
Isolates are crystallized powder containing pure CBD or THC. Because of its pure form, isolates are flavorless and are suitable for edibles and beverages. Isolates can be combined with different isolates to offer a range of products.
Smokables, tinctures and edibles
Cannabinoids come in many forms. Smokables, like vapes and pre-rolls, work almost instantaneously. Under-the-tongue tinctures take a bit longer, and edibles can take up to an hour to kick in. There are also topical creams and lotions that can help with skin issues from itching to acne.
At Fatty’s, though, you don’t have to navigate these choices alone. Their ambassadors of happiness will work with you throughout the process.
“Whenever a customer comes in, we always ask about their needs and their lifestyle,” said Addotta. “That way we can make sure they’re getting exactly the right product.”
For more information, please visit fattyssmokeshops.com.
