CBC vs. CBD: Key differences and more
Cannabinoids are gaining attention for their potential to support overall wellness and balance within the body. These naturally occurring compounds, found in the hemp plant can help maintain harmony across various bodily functions. Among the many cannabinoids identified in hemp, you’ve likely heard of CBD, but what about CBC?
While CBD has become a household name for its calming effects and versatility in wellness products, CBC is currently less well-known — but equally promising. Both cannabinoids share similarities, but their unique characteristics and benefits set them apart.
Whether you’re already familiar with CBD or curious about cannabinoids in general, understanding these two compounds can help you make more informed decisions about your wellness journey.
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant. These compounds play a key role in supporting the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that helps maintain balance in functions like mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response.*
The ECS is made up of two primary types of receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more abundant in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Cannabinoids interact with these receptors in different ways, either binding directly to them or influencing how the body’s natural endocannabinoids work.*
The hemp plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, each with its own unique profile and effects. While THC and CBD are the most recognized, other cannabinoids like CBC, CBG, and CBN are gaining attention for their distinct potential to support wellness.*
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the most well-known cannabinoids derived from the hemp plant. It’s non-intoxicating, meaning it doesn’t produce the high commonly associated with THC. Instead, CBD interacts with the ECS and other receptors in the body to support overall balance and relaxation.*
One of the key ways CBD works is by interacting indirectly with ECS receptors. While it doesn’t bind strongly to CB1 or CB2, it influences the activity of the body’s natural endocannabinoids. Research suggests that CBD can also interact with serotonin receptors, which may contribute to its calming effects and its ability to support emotional wellness.*
CBD is commonly used to help promote calmness, improve sleep quality, and ease feelings of tension or discomfort.* Its versatility makes it a popular choice, available in a range of product types like oils, tinctures, topicals, capsules, and gummies.
Whether added to a daily wellness routine or used as needed, CBD is a flexible option for those seeking non-intoxicating support for their body and mind.
What is CBC?
CBC, or cannabichromene, is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. Like CBD, CBC is non-intoxicating and won’t produce a high. Instead, it interacts with the ECS in ways that may support overall wellness.
CBC has a strong affinity for CB2 receptors, which are primarily located in the immune system and peripheral tissues. This interaction may help support a healthy immune response, making CBC an intriguing option for soothing skin irritation or addressing localized discomfort.*
Its role in supporting skin health has been a focus of emerging research, suggesting that CBC could play a part in promoting a clearer and healthier complexion.*
Additionally, CBC shows potential to support emotional wellness. Studies suggest that CBC may influence mood by interacting with receptors related to serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters.*
This has led to growing interest in CBC as a cannabinoid that may help promote balance and stability in emotional states. As interest in the broader spectrum of cannabinoids grows, CBC is likely to become a more prominent part of the conversation around hemp-derived wellness solutions.
How are CBD and CBC similar?
While CBD and CBC have unique characteristics, they share several key similarities that make them valuable additions to wellness routines.
Source
Both CBD and CBC are naturally occurring cannabinoids derived from the hemp and cannabis plants. They are extracted and refined to create products that support overall wellness, though hemp-derived options are more commonly available due to their legal status in many regions.
Work with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)
CBD and CBC interact with the ECS, a vital system in the body responsible for regulating balance in areas like mood, sleep, and immune function. These cannabinoids influence ECS receptors, helping to support its natural processes and promote harmony within the body.*
Non-psychoactive
Unlike THC, both CBD and CBC are non-psychoactive. They don’t produce intoxicating effects because they are not known to bind strongly with CB1 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for the altered mental state associated with THC.
Potential benefits
CBD and CBC share overlapping potential benefits. Both are recognized for their ability to support emotional wellness, soothe tension, and ease discomfort.* Their shared qualities make them excellent candidates for full spectrum or broad spectrum wellness products that take advantage of their combined effects.
What are the key differences between CBC and CBD?
Although CBD and CBC are similar in many ways, their differences make them uniquely beneficial. These distinctions lie in their chemical structure, how they interact with the body, availability, and the depth of research behind them.
Chemical structure
CBD and CBC have different molecular structures, which affect how they are processed in the body. While both interact with the ECS, their distinct shapes influence how they bind with receptors and enzymes. These structural differences contribute to their unique benefits and the roles they play in supporting wellness.
Receptor interaction
One of the most significant differences between CBD and CBC is how they interact with ECS receptors. CBC shows a stronger preference for CB2 receptors, which are primarily located in the immune system and peripheral tissues. This may explain its role in supporting skin health.*
CBD has broader receptor activity, indirectly interacting with both CB1 and CB2 receptors as well as other receptor systems, such as serotonin receptors. This versatility contributes to its wide range of benefits, including support for mood, sleep, and relaxation.*
Availability
CBD is one of the most widely recognized cannabinoids and is available in various forms. Its accessibility has made it a go-to option for many wellness seekers.
On the other hand, CBC is a minor cannabinoid and is less commonly found in its isolated form. Instead, it is often included in full spectrum or broad spectrum products, where it works synergistically with other cannabinoids and compounds.
Research
CBD is one of the most extensively studied cannabinoids, with a robust body of research supporting its potential benefits. CBC, by comparison, is less understood.
While preliminary research suggests it may support skin health, mood balance, and synergistic effects with other cannabinoids, more studies are needed to fully uncover its potential. This emerging area of research highlights the promise of CBC as a valuable addition to hemp-derived wellness products.
Can CBC and CBD work together?
CBD and CBC complement each other in impressive ways, thanks to the entourage effect.* This concept refers to the way cannabinoids, terpenes, and other hemp compounds work together synergistically to enhance their individual effects. Instead of working in isolation, these compounds amplify each other’s benefits, creating a more balanced and effective experience.
Using products that combine CBD, CBC, and other cannabinoids allows you to experience the full range of what the hemp plant has to offer.* Full spectrum and broad spectrum products are ideal for this purpose.
Full spectrum options contain all the beneficial compounds from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC, while broad spectrum options provide the same benefits but with all THC content filtered out.
At Sunmed, we believe in the power of the whole plant. By utilizing its wide spectrum of compounds — including terpenes, flavonoids, and minor cannabinoids like CBC — we ensure that our products deliver the most effective support possible.
Whether you’re looking for the full entourage effect or prefer non-detectable THC options, we offer both full spectrum and broad spectrum products to meet your needs and help you make the most of your wellness journey.
How to choose the right cannabinoid for you
Selecting the right cannabinoid begins with identifying your wellness goals.
Are you looking to promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, or support healthy skin? Understanding your desired effects can help guide your choice. Delivery method is another key consideration — CBD and CBC are available in oils, gummies, topicals, and more, each offering unique benefits depending on how you plan to use them.
Experimentation can be valuable. Everyone’s body responds differently to cannabinoids, so finding the perfect match may take some trial and error. Always prioritize high-quality, hemp-derived products to ensure safety and effectiveness.
We are proud to source all cannabinoids from organic, USA-grown industrial hemp. Every Sunmed product is third-party tested to ensure quality and safety, so you can confidently incorporate hemp-derived wellness into your daily routine.
The bottom line
CBD and CBC each offer unique benefits, from soothing tension to supporting emotional wellness and skin health. While their differences make them individually effective, their ability to work together through the entourage effect adds even greater value.
Exploring these cannabinoids can open doors to new ways of enhancing your wellness. Whether you’re looking for broad spectrum or full spectrum options, high-quality hemp products are essential for achieving the best results.
At Sunmed, we’re dedicated to providing wellness solutions you can trust. With our full range of hemp-derived products, crafted with organic ingredients and rigorous testing standards, you can embrace the benefits of CBC, CBD, and beyond. Explore our full range of hemp products to find the best fit for your wellness journey.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Cannabinoid - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious | Harvard Health
Pharmacology of cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors | PubMed
Cannabichromene - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
The Potential of Cannabichromene (CBC) as a Therapeutic Agent | PMC