What is CBC?

CBC (Cannabichromene)

Overview

Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid, structurally related to CBD but with a distinct pharmacological profile. It is part of the “big three” cannabinoids — THC, CBD, and CBC — first identified in the 1960s. Despite its early discovery, CBC remains underrepresented in most modern cultivars due to the difficulty of isolating it in significant amounts.

CBC does not bind to CB1 receptors, but exerts its activity through:

• CB2 receptors

• TRPA1, TRPV1, and TRPV3 channels

• Adenosine A1 receptors

• and possibly neuropeptide Y and BDNF modulation

Effects

Psychological

• Promotes gentle mental clarity, particularly under anxiety or low mood

• May enhance the activity of other cannabinoids (including THC and CBG)

• Creates a sense of inner space — a “pause between thoughts”

• Non-psychoactive nature makes CBC suitable for daytime use and microdosing research

• May support emotional flexibility under chronic stress

Physiological

• Demonstrates strong anti-inflammatory action (comparable in models to phenylbutazone)

• Regulates immune overactivation by modulating IL-6 and TNF-α

• Stimulates neurogenesis in the hippocampus, supporting memory and mood balance

• Provides analgesic effects through TRP channels without sedation

• Potential applications in inflammatory disorders of the gut, skin, and joints

Occurrence

CBC typically appears at 0.1–0.3% in mature cannabis flowers. Higher concentrations are found only in specialized extracts or CBC-dominant lines.

In OG Lab genetics, CBC is not isolated as a primary component yet, but may occur in trace levels within:

• Avto Tune CBD

• Gas 'n Fruit (select batches)

Synergy

• CBC + CBD — Supports neural recovery and mood regulation

• CBC + CBG — Focus and calm; enhances body-mind integration

• CBC + Caryophyllene — Strong anti-inflammatory synergy without psychoactivity

• CBC + THC — Softens intensity and improves emotional adaptability

CBC doesn’t enhance euphoria — it amplifies internal coherence.

Pharmacological Properties

• Non-psychoactive, but modulates mood, attention, and body tone

• Non-tolerant: does not induce dependence or diminishing response

• Neurogenic: among few cannabinoids shown to promote neuron growth

• Potential applications include:

  • Chronic inflammation

  • Depressive or apathetic states

  • Mental burnout and cognitive fatigue

  • Post-stress recovery

Summary

CBC is not about effect — it’s about background clarity and embodied ease. It works quietly but deeply; if you can perceive it, you’re finely tuned.

CBC is not a hammer — it’s a calibration of the neural system: subtle, precise, and restorative.