The Hidden Healing Compounds in Cannabis

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The Hidden Healing Compounds in Cannabis

A New Era in Cannabis Medicine

Cannabis is far more than THC and CBD. The plant contains hundreds of biologically active compounds, including a family of medicinal compounds called "phytocannabinoids." These important molecules interact with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS) to promote balance and healing. Modern science continues to uncover how these phytocannabinoids offer therapeutic promise for pain, anxiety, inflammation, neuroprotection, autism, cancer, and even metabolic and skin disorders.

The Endocannabinoid System: Our Internal Balancing Act

Discovered in the late 20th century, the ECS was discovered and over a number of years, researchers figured out that it is highly involved in regulating our mood, sleep, immunity, pain sensation, and more. It works to keep our overall physiology balanced by making sure our cells are sending correct messages when we are facing stressors. This is called cellular homeostasis. Cannabinoid receptors (like CB1in the brain and CB2 in the immune system and gut) respond to both our own endocannabinoids and plant cannabinoids.

Meet the Minor Cannabinoids

1. Cannabigerol (CBG): The “Mother Cannabinoid”

CBG is often called "the mother of all other cannabinoids" as it is the precursor compound that goes on to form many other cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. CBG is non-impairing, meaning it does not have a "high" effect." Research shows it has pain-relieving, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, and antidepressant properties. It also shows potential in managing psoriasis and metabolic disorders. It also may help to stimulate appetite, offering an alternative to THC, but without intoxicating effects for those who are looking to improve caloric intake. CBG has also been shown in animal studies to have significant potency in killing cancer cells, specifically in leukemia and glioblastoma. 

In my medical practice, I have many patients using CBG either alone or in combination with other cannabinoids, for pain, anxiety, inflammation, psoriasis (using topical CBD+CBG seems particularly effective), symptoms of autism, and also dementia.  Patients and caregivers report it helps with calming, focus, pain relief, inflammation and other challenging symptoms. 

2. Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA): The Raw Power of Cannabis

CBDA is the acidic precursor of CBD, found in raw cannabis. It is non-impairing and has been shown in research to have anti-nausea, antidepressant, and anti-anxiety effects at low doses. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory, which is, based on my experience, its main benefit in my patients. Studies suggest CBDA may help with chemotherapy-related nausea, epilepsy, and metabolic balance. It has demonstrated antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in lab studies.

Many of my patients have been able to stop using other pain and inflammatory medications by substituting with CBDA, all without any unwanted side effects. I have also found that it has a calming effect in some of my pediatric patients with autism or other behavioral challenges, often combining it with CBD or other cannabinoids for synergistic benefits. 

3. Cannabinol (CBN): The Restful Cannabinoid

CBN is found only in trace amounts in the cannabis flower (which is the plant's "factory" where all cannabinoids are made). CBN forms naturally as THC ages or is exposed to heat and light. It binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, like THC, but with much lower potency. Research on CBN reports that it offers a number of medicinal benefits, including sedation, pain relief, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antibacterial effects. 

Recent human studies show CBN can improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime awakenings, making it an alternative to harsh sleeping pills. Currently there are numerous studies looking at CBN for pain and neuroinflammatory conditions. 

Many of my patients are using CBN in combination with other cannabinoids to help with sleep and pain. Children with challenging behaviors due to autism or other conditions may benefit from CBN. My patient's parents have reported calming effects and improved mood with low doses of CBN. 

4. Cannabidivarin (CBDV): The Neurological Ally

CBDV is another minor cannabinoid with tremendous medicinal potential. It is somewhat similar to CBD, with a slight difference in its chemical structure that changes some of its medicinal properties. CBDV acts on non-cannabinoid receptors, providing anti-seizure, anti-inflammatory, and behavioral-modulating effects. Early studies of CBDV in animals and in one human study of children with Rett syndrome (a genetic neurodevelopmental condition) demonstrated reduced seizures. In animal models of autism, researchers found improved sociability, less hyperactivity, better memory and less repetitive behaviors. 

In my practice, I have recommended CBDV in pediatric patients with difficult-to-treat seizure disorders, most commonly in combination with CBD. Many of the parents report less frequent and shorter seizures and even some have seizure freedom with this combination. Additionally, some of my patients with severe autism have found benefits with CBDV, including less irritability, less hyperactivity and better social interactions. 

Synergy and the Future of Cannabinoid Therapy

Each cannabinoid has unique molecular targets, but together they produce an “entourage effect," which is a synergistic interplay that enhances overall therapeutic outcomes. For example, combinations like CBD + CBG have shown superior anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects compared with single compounds in models of ALS and Parkinson’s disease.

As research expands, the focus is shifting toward personalized cannabinoid medicine, matching compounds and ratios to individual patient needs.

Rediscovering a Plant for Modern Medicine

From pain and anxiety to neurodegenerative and metabolic conditions, minor cannabinoids are reshaping how we understand cannabis as medicine. What once was considered a single-compound therapy (THC) is now recognized as a complex botanical system supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. The science is still evolving, but the message is clear: nature designed cannabis to heal us without harm. 

Cannabis works best with knowledgeable guidance

It is important to understand that all of us have different responses to medications and plant compounds, and that cannabis medicine is not "one-size-fits-all." If you or a loved one are struggling and would like to explore cannabis medicine, we here at Goldstein Wellness can connect you to knowledgeable clinicians to help you find your effective cannabinoid regimen. We also offer medical discounts on vetted hemp products through your practitioner. You can register here to get started on your journey to healing and wellness. 

With over two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Goldstein is the CEO and co-founder of Goldstein Wellness and serves as the Medical Director/Owner of Canna-Centers Wellness & Education. Her patient roster, numbering over 20,000 individuals, includes more than two thousand children who have benefited from medical cannabis under her care.
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