Learn how to read a Certificate of Analysis (COA), understand laboratory testing results, verify cannabinoid content, and make confident, informed choices about cannabis and hemp-derived products.
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—rich in naturally occurring compounds that include cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential nutrients.
Among these, cannabinoids are often the most talked about. They are the compounds most closely associated with how cannabis interacts with the body and how different products may be experienced.
In this guide, you’ll find:
Let’s take a closer look.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. To date, more than 140 cannabinoids have been identified—each with its own unique structure and potential effects. 1
Different cannabis varieties contain distinct cannabinoid profiles, which can influence how products are experienced.
While research is still evolving, cannabinoids are widely studied for how they interact with the body’s internal regulatory system—known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). 3
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This short educational segment from GBL TV features Dr. David Bearman, a pain medicine physician and certified cannabinoid medicine specialist, offering a clear overview of cannabinoids and how they interact with the body.
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.
From understanding the basics of cannabinoids to exploring different product types and consumption methods, our educational content is built to meet you wherever you are on your journey.
Excellent Overview of Cannabinoids
Cannabis Medicine: A Guide to the Practice of Cannabinoid Medicin
An extraordinarily valuable tool for anyone interested in cannabis medicine
This book offers a quick introduction and overview of cannabis, cannabinoids, and the endocannabinoid system for discerning patients or anyone interested in cannabinoid medicine.
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.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis, each with unique structures and characteristics.
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—one of the key factors that influences how a product may be experienced.
Within the plant, cannabinoids serve a protective role. They help defend against environmental stressors such as UV exposure, pests, and drought—contributing to the plant’s resilience and survival.
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.
Cannabinoids generally fall into three categories: those produced by the plant, those produced by the body, and those created in a laboratory.
Understanding these distinctions can help clarify how cannabinoids originate—and how they may interact with the body in different ways.
Phytocannabinoids are produced naturally by the cannabis plant. When most people refer to “cannabinoids,” they are typically referring to this group.
Well-known phytocannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), along with a growing list of lesser-known compounds such as CBG, CBN, and CBC.
Some non-cannabis plants—such as turmeric, black pepper, and chocolate—contain compounds that may interact with the body in similar ways. 2
Endocannabinoids are produced naturally by the human body as needed. Because they are synthesized on demand, there is no established “baseline” level.(3)
These compounds help regulate internal balance through the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Two of the most well-studied endocannabinoids include:
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.
How do cannabinoids work in the body, and what influences their effects? It’s a natural question—and an important one.
Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), influencing how the body responds to internal and external stimuli. 3
Each cannabinoid may influence the body differently, contributing to a wide range of potential experiences.
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. This is often discussed in the context of the “entourage effect,” a term used to describe how multiple compounds may work together within the plant.
Because of this complexity, individual responses to cannabis can vary based on factors such as:
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)?
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 cannabinoid precursors include:
CBGA is often referred to as a “parent” compound because it plays a central role in the formation of other cannabinoids. 8
These acidic forms represent the natural state of cannabinoids in the raw cannabis plant.
When exposed to heat—through processes such as smoking, vaping, or cooking—they undergo a transformation known as decarboxylation. This process converts cannabinoid acids into their more commonly recognized forms, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
This transformation helps explain why raw and heated cannabis can produce different experiences.
How sources define “major” can vary, but this group represents some of the most prevalent, widely discussed, and commercially recognized cannabinoids today.
Each cannabinoid interacts with the body differently, contributing to the wide range of experiences associated with cannabis.
Let’s take a closer look.
tetrahydrocannabinol—commonly known as THC—is one of the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis.
It may also be referred to by its formal or chemical names, including delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9, D9, or Δ-9-THC. While these terms are often used interchangeably, “THC” is the most widely recognized.
THC is best known for its psychoactive properties—the effects commonly associated with feeling “high.”
It has also been studied for its potential role in areas such as appetite, nausea, and sleep, though research is still evolving and outcomes may vary.
In most marijuana varieties, THC is typically the most abundant cannabinoid. 10
Explore our in-depth guide: What is THC? [An In-Depth Guide]
cannabidiol—commonly known as CBD—is one of the most widely recognized cannabinoids.
Unlike THC, CBD is not typically associated with intoxicating effects, making it a popular option for consumers seeking a more non-psychoactive experience.
CBD is commonly used by individuals exploring support for relaxation and overall wellness. It is currently being studied for a range of potential applications, though findings are still evolving and may vary.
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.
Explore our in-depth guide: What is CBD? [An All-Inclusive Need-to-Know CBD Guide]
cannabigerol—commonly known as CBG—is often referred to as a “parent” cannabinoid due to its foundational role in the plant’s development.
In the early stages of cannabis growth, its acidic form—CBGA—serves as a precursor that is enzymatically converted into other major cannabinoids, including THC and CBD.
Although CBG is typically present only in small amounts in most cannabis plants, it is gaining increased attention as research continues to explore its potential properties.
cannabinol—commonly known as CBN—is a cannabinoid that forms as THC naturally ages and oxidizes over time.
Because of this process, CBN is typically found in higher concentrations in older or stored cannabis.
CBN is considered a minor cannabinoid and is being studied for its potential properties, though research is still emerging and not yet conclusive.
As interest in lesser-known cannabinoids continues to grow, CBN is increasingly being included in cannabis and hemp-derived products.
cannabichromene—commonly known as CBC—is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.
Like CBG, CBC is considered a minor cannabinoid and is typically present in smaller concentrations compared to THC and CBD. It is formed through the same precursor pathway, originating from CBGA during the plant’s development.
CBC is being studied for its potential properties, though research is still in early stages and continues to evolve.
As interest in a broader range of cannabinoids grows, CBC is increasingly being explored in both cannabis and hemp-derived formulations.
delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis in very small amounts.
Because of its low natural concentration, most commercially available delta-8 is produced through a conversion process using CBD or THC.
Delta-8 is considered psychoactive, though it is often described by consumers as producing a milder effect compared to delta-9 THC. Individual experiences may vary.
Due to differences in how it is produced and regulated, the availability and legal status of delta-8 products can vary by jurisdiction.
With over 140 identified cannabinoids, many fall into the category of "minor cannabinoids."
While they are typically present in smaller concentrations, a number of these compounds are gaining attention as research evolves and product innovation expands.
Below are some of the more commonly referenced minor cannabinoids:
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. More than 140 cannabinoids have been identified to date.
Each cannabinoid has its own unique structure and may interact with the body differently, contributing to a wide range of potential experiences.
Today, consumers and wellness enthusiasts often explore cannabinoids to better understand how cannabis products may fit into their personal routines. Many products contain a combination of cannabinoids, along with other plant compounds, which can influence how they are perceived and experienced.
Ready to keep exploring?
This is where education meets real-world experience—helping you make informed, confident choices.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including well-known examples like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
There are over 140 known cannabinoids, each with its own distinct properties and potential effects. Different varieties of cannabis contain unique cannabinoid profiles.
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 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.
cannabidiol (CBD) 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.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling network found throughout the human body.
It plays a role in helping regulate and maintain balance across various physiological processes, including mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response. 3
The ECS consists of three main components:
Cannabinoids from the cannabis plant may interact with this system in different ways, influencing how the body responds to internal and external stimuli.
No—cannabinoids do not affect everyone in the same way.
Individual responses can vary based on several factors, including:
Because of these variables, the same product may produce different experiences for different individuals.
As with many plant-based compounds, a thoughtful and informed approach can help consumers better understand what works best for their personal needs.
Watch related conversations on Just Say KNOW with Maria, where cannabis topics are explored through expert insights, education, and real-world perspectives.
Learn how to read a Certificate of Analysis (COA), understand laboratory testing results, verify cannabinoid content, and make confident, informed choices about cannabis and hemp-derived products.
Learn how smoking and vaping cannabis differ, what researchers are studying, and how understanding your options can help you make more informed decisions with confidence.
Learn the differences between full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate. This beginner-friendly guide explains cannabinoids, THC, labels, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to help people better understand what's inside CBD products.
Editor's Note (2026): As more consumers explore homemade cannabis edibles and infused ingredients, one question continues to come up: How do I create a more consistent experience from batch to batch? This guide has been refreshed for 2026 as a companion resource to Just Say KNOW with Maria – Episode 26: Flower Infusion 101, where […]
Learn how to read a Certificate of Analysis (COA), understand laboratory testing results, verify cannabinoid content, and make confident, informed choices about cannabis and hemp-derived products.
Learn how smoking and vaping cannabis differ, what researchers are studying, and how understanding your options can help you make more informed decisions with confidence.
Learn the differences between full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate. This beginner-friendly guide explains cannabinoids, THC, labels, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to help people better understand what's inside CBD products.
Editor's Note (2026): As more consumers explore homemade cannabis edibles and infused ingredients, one question continues to come up: How do I create a more consistent experience from batch to batch? This guide has been refreshed for 2026 as a companion resource to Just Say KNOW with Maria – Episode 26: Flower Infusion 101, where […]
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