What Are Cannabinoids? A Beginner's Guide to CBD, THC & Beyond (2026)

Editor’s Note (2026): As cannabis education continues to evolve, understanding cannabinoids remains foundational for consumers exploring CBD, THC, and beyond. This guide has been updated to reflect current terminology and best practices for informed use.

Cannabis is an elaborate plant. It’s full of hundreds of compounds that include cannabinoids, nutrients, and more.

This guide will give you:

• An introduction to cannabinoids
• An explanation of what cannabinoids do
• An idea of how they might support your health and well-being

Let's take a closer look.

"New to Cannabis?"

New to cannabis? Start with our beginner-friendly guides in the Green Bee Life Learning Center—designed to help you explore with confidence and make informed choices.

Cannabinoids 101

Cannabis — including marijuana and hemp — may appear simple on the surface, but it contains a complex array of naturally occurring compounds. Among the most notable are cannabinoids.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are bioactive plant compounds, also known as phytocompounds, that naturally occur in the cannabis plant. Of more than 600 identified compounds in cannabis, at least 140 are cannabinoids.(1) The most widely recognized cannabinoids are THC and CBD, though many others are gaining attention as research and product development continue to evolve.

All cannabis plants contain cannabinoids, but their specific composition can vary widely. For example, marijuana and hemp each contain cannabinoids, but in different concentrations and ratios.

In the plant, cannabinoids play a protective role—helping guard against environmental stressors such as UV exposure, pests, and drought.

When consumed, cannabinoids interact with our body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network involved in maintaining balance across various physiological processes. Through this interaction, cannabinoids influence how the body responds to internal and external stimuli.

Each cannabinoid interacts with the body in its own way, contributing to the wide range of experiences associated with cannabis.

Types of Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids generally fall into three categories: those produced by the plant, those produced by the body, and those created in a laboratory.

Phytocannabinoids (Plant-Derived Cannabinoids)

Phytocannabinoids are produced naturally by the cannabis plant. When most people refer to “cannabinoids,” they are typically referring to this group.

While phytocannabinoids are unique to cannabis, some other plants contain compounds that may interact with the body in similar ways. Examples include chocolate, turmeric, echinacea, black pepper, and cloves.(2) These compounds may influence or complement cannabinoid activity.

Endocannabinoids (Endogenous Cannabinoids)

Endocannabinoids are produced naturally by the human body as needed. Because they are synthesized on demand, there is no established “baseline” level.(3)

Two of the most well-studied endocannabinoids include:

• Anandamide (AEA): Often referred to as the “bliss molecule," anandamide interacts with the same receptors as THC and is associated with mood regulation and overall balance.(4) (5,6)
• 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG): Found primarily in the central nervous system, 2-AG is involved in functions related to mood, cognition, and immune response.(7)

Synthetic Cannabinoids (Lab-Created Cannabinoids)

In addition to naturally occurring cannabinoids, scientists have developed synthetic versions in laboratory settings.

These compounds are designed to mimic certain characteristics of plant-derived cannabinoids. In some cases, they are used in research or in regulated pharmaceutical applications.

Synthetic cannabinoids can vary widely in their composition and effects, and their use is subject to regulatory oversight depending on the product and jurisdiction.

Cannabinoid Uses & Effects

How do cannabinoids work in the body, and what influences their effects? It’s a natural question—and an important one.

While cannabinoids vary in structure and function, they generally interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network involved in regulating balance across many physiological processes.

Each cannabinoid may influence the body differently, contributing to a wide range of potential experiences. In addition, other naturally occurring compounds in cannabis—such as terpenes and flavonoids—may interact with cannabinoids in ways that shape how products are perceived and experienced. Because of this complexity, individual responses to cannabis can vary based on factors like dosage, product type, and personal biology.

As research continues to evolve, our understanding of cannabinoids and their interactions within the body is still developing.

For a deeper introduction to how this system works, explore our guide: What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?

Cannabinoid Precursors

Cannabis does not begin with fully formed cannabinoids. Instead, these compounds are produced through a natural process called biosynthesis, in which the plant converts raw materials into various chemical compounds.

Like any biological system, this process relies on precursor compounds—substances that serve as the building blocks for cannabinoids.

In cannabis, these precursors are cannabinoid acids.(8,9) Some of the most important include:

• Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA)
• Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA)
• Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA)
• Cannabichromenic acid (CBCA)

CBGA is often referred to as a “parent” compound because it plays a central role in the formation of other cannabinoids. Through enzymatic processes, CBGA is converted into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA.(10)

These acidic forms are the natural state of cannabinoids in the raw plant. When exposed to heat—through processes such as smoking, vaping, or cooking—they undergo a transformation known as decarboxylation, converting into their more commonly recognized forms, such as THC and CBD. This transformation helps explain why raw and heated cannabis can produce different experiences.

Five Major Cannabinoids

How sources define “major” can vary, but this group of five represents some of the most prevalent, widely discussed, and commercially recognized cannabinoids. Each cannabinoid interacts with the body differently, contributing to the wide range of experiences associated with cannabis. Let's take a closer look at each.

1 - Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

A cannabinoid of many names, THC may also be referred to as tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9, D9 or Δ-9-THC. These are its formal, chemical names, though it's commonly known simply as THC.

THC is best known for its psychoactive properties — the effects often associated with feeling "high." It has also been studied for its potential role in areas including appetite, nausea, and sleep, though research is ongoing.

THC is typically the most abundant cannabinoid in most marijuana varieties.

Want to Learn More? Check out our What is THC? [An In-Depth Guide]

2 - Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the most widely recognized cannabinoids and is commonly used by consumers seeking support for relaxation and overall wellness. It is currently being studied for a range of potential applications, though findings are still evolving.

At present, Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved CBD-based prescription medication, indicated for specific seizure disorders.

CBD is the predominant cannabinoid found in most hemp varieties.

Want to Learn More? Check out our What is CBD? [An All-Inclusive Need-to-Know CBD Guide]

3 - Delta-8-THC (D8)

Delta-8-THC occurs naturally in cannabis in very small amounts, making it difficult to extract directly. As a result, most commercially available delta-8 is produced through a conversion process using CBD or THC.

Delta-8 is also psychoactive, though consumers often describe it as producing a milder effect compared to delta-9 THC. Individual experiences may vary.

4 - Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabinol (CBN) is a cannabinoid that forms as THC ages and oxidizes over time. It is typically found in higher concentrations in older or stored cannabis.

CBN is being studied for its potential properties, though research is still emerging. It is increasingly appearing in cannabis products as interest in minor cannabinoids grows.

5 - Cannabigerol (CBG)

Cannabigerol (CBG) is often referred to as a “parent” cannabinoid, as it plays a role in the formation of other cannabinoids like THC and CBD during the plant’s development.

Although present only in small amounts in most cannabis plants, CBG is gaining attention as research continues to explore its potential properties. It is now being featured more frequently in cannabis and hemp-derived products.

The Main Minor Cannabinoids

With over 140 identified cannabinoids, many fall into the category of "minor cannabinoids." While we won't cover the all here, a number of these compounds are gaining attention for their presence in cannabis products and ongoing research. Below are some of the more commonly referenced minor cannabinoids:

• Cannabichromene (CBC)
• Cannabielsoin (CBE)
• Cannabifuran (CBF)
• Cannabicyclol (CBL)
• Cannabitriol (CBT)
• Cannabinodivarin (CBV)
• Cannabiripsol (CBR)
• Cannabicitran (CBT-C)

Cannabinoids, Explained

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. More than 140 cannabinoids have been identified, each with its own unique characteristics and potential effects.

Consumers and wellness enthusiasts often explore different cannabinoids to better understand how cannabis products may fit into their personal routines. Many products contain a combination of cannabinoids, contributing to a range of experiences.

Ready to keep learning? Explore more Cannabis 101 guides or discover carefully curated products in the Green Bee Life Marketplace.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What are cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including well-known examples like THC and CBD. There are over 140 known cannabinoids, each with its own distinct properties and potential effects. Different varieties of cannabis contain unique cannabinoid profiles.

What is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of the primary cannabinoids found in cannabis. It is typically the most abundant cannabinoid in marijuana varieties and is known for its psychoactive properties, meaning it can produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis.

What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is another major cannabinoid and is the predominant compound found in hemp. It is commonly used by consumers seeking support for relaxation and overall wellness, and it continues to be studied for a range of potential applications.

Want to go deeper? Watch related conversations on Just Say KNOW with Maria, where we explore cannabis topics with experts, educators, and real-world perspectives.

References

1. Grinspoon, P. (2021). Beyond CBD: Here come the other cannabinoids, but where’s the evidence? Harvard Health.
2. Gertsch, J, et al. (2010). Phytocannabinoids beyond the Cannabis plant - do they exist? British Journal of Pharmacology.
3. Raypole, C. (2019, May 17). A Simple Guide to the Endocannabinoid System. Healthline; Healthline Media.
4. Scherma, M, et al. (2018). Brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss? Acta Pharmacologica Sinica.
5. Bird, E. (2020). Body’s natural cannabinoid may erase traumatic memories. Medical News Today.
6. (2013). Annandamine Molecule - The bliss molecule. World of Molecules.
7. Baggelaar, MP, et al. (2018). 2-Arachidonoylglycerol: A signaling lipid with manifold actions in the brain. Progress in Lipid Research.
8. Gülck, T, et al. (2020). Phytocannabinoids: Origins and Biosynthesis. Trends in Plant Science.
9. Tahir, MN, et al. (2021). The biosynthesis of the cannabinoids. Journal of Cannabis Research.
10. (2022). Cannabinoids: Beyond THC and CBD. Encore-Labs.