CBC
Cannabichromene
Cannabichromene (CBC) is the third most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis. Non-psychoactive, it shows preclinical promise for inflammation, pain, depression, and neurogenesis — the growth of new brain cells.
Quick Facts
- Molecular Formula
- C₂₁H₃₀O₂
- Molecular Weight
- 314.46 g/mol
- Boiling Point
- 220°C (428°F)
- Legal Status (U.S.)
- Hemp-derived CBC is federally legal in the U
- Research Status
- Very early stage
About CBC
Cannabichromene was first isolated in 1966 by Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni. Like CBD and THC, it is derived from CBGA — the enzymatic conversion of CBGA by CBC synthase produces CBCA, which decarboxylates to CBC.
CBC's pharmacology is distinct from other major cannabinoids. It has very low affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors, instead acting primarily through TRP channels — specifically TRPV1, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPA1, and TRPM8. This TRP channel activity is relevant to pain, inflammation, and temperature sensation.
One of the most intriguing findings for CBC is its effect on neurogenesis. A 2013 study in Neurochemistry International found CBC increased the viability of neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs) — cells that differentiate into neurons and glial cells. This suggests potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases, though this is very early-stage research.
For depression, a 2010 study found CBC produced antidepressant-like effects in a mouse forced swim test, comparable to CBD. The combination of CBC and THC produced greater antidepressant effects than either alone, suggesting entourage effect contributions.
CBC is also notable for its anti-inflammatory effects independent of CB2 receptors — it inhibits the uptake of anandamide, allowing it to remain active longer, and directly inhibits inflammatory mediators.
Receptor Affinity
- TRPV1 agonist
- TRPV3 agonist
- TRPA1 agonist
- TRPM8 antagonist
- CB1/CB2 very low affinity
Key Mechanisms
- TRP channel modulation — primary mechanism for analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects
- Anandamide reuptake inhibition — prolongs endocannabinoid activity
- Neural stem progenitor cell (NSPC) viability enhancement — neurogenesis potential
- Inhibition of inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, nitric oxide)
- Potential entourage effect contributions with THC and CBD
Clinical Uses & Evidence
Graded using a modified GRADE framework. Grade A = strong evidence; B = moderate; C = preliminary.
Inflammation / Pain
Grade CPreclinical evidence for TRP channel-mediated anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. No human trials.
Key study: DeLong et al., Prog Neuropsychopharmacol 2010
Depression
Grade CAnimal model antidepressant effects. Synergistic effects with THC observed. No human trials.
Key study: El-Alfy et al., Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2010
Neurogenesis / Neuroprotection
Grade CIncreased neural stem progenitor cell viability in vitro. Highly preliminary. No clinical translation yet.
Key study: Shinjyo & Di Marzo, Neurochem Int 2013
Side Effects
Drug Interactions
Anandamide reuptake inhibition may potentiate endocannabinoid system activity
Always consult a pharmacist or physician before combining cannabis with prescription medications. This list is not exhaustive.
Dosing Notes
No established clinical dosing. Very limited human data. Consumer products containing CBC are emerging but evidence base is insufficient to guide dosing.
Dosing information is for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Legal Status
Hemp-derived CBC is federally legal in the U.S. under the 2018 Farm Bill. Cannabis-derived CBC follows state cannabis laws.
Key Sources
- Antidepressant-like effects of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 2010.
- Cannabichromene is a cannabinoid CB2 receptor ligand. Neurochemistry International, 2013.