You might have heard the word cannabinoids before and felt unsure what it really means. I get that. Cannabinoids are natural parts of the cannabis plant, and each one can affect your body and mind in different ways.

Some may help you feel calm, while others may give you focus or energy. A cannabinoid chart makes it easier for you by putting all this information in one simple place.

I’ll walk you through what the chart actually shows. You’ll learn about the most common cannabinoids, how they’re used, and why people look at them. By the end, you’ll feel ready to read a chart and use it for yourself with more confidence.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant. They work with something in your body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a system that helps manage mood, sleep, pain, and hunger.

Your ECS includes receptors that respond to cannabinoids. The two main types are:

• CB1 receptors: Mostly found in the brain and nervous system. These affect things like mood, memory, thinking, and movement. THC connects strongly to CB1 receptors and causes the “high.”

• CB2 receptors: Found more in the immune system. These help with swelling, pain, and healing. CBD and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids tend to interact with CB2.

Your body even makes its own cannabinoids (called endocannabinoids) to help keep everything in balance. The cannabis plant adds more of these compounds from the outside, which is why it can affect how you feel or function.

Cannabinoid Chart for Quick Reference

Understanding cannabinoids becomes easier when you can see their effects and uses in one place. This chart gives you a simple way to compare them side by side:

You can use this chart as a quick reference whenever you want to understand cannabinoids better. It helps you connect each compound with its main effects and possible uses in a clear, simple way.

Major Cannabinoids Explained

Cannabinoids may sound complex, but once you break them down, it becomes much easier to understand. Each major cannabinoid has its own role, effects, and possible uses.

Let’s go through the main ones step by step so you can see what makes each of them important:

1. THC (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, meaning it’s what makes people feel “high.” It works by binding to receptors in the brain that control mood, memory, and pain.

THC is also used medically to help with nausea, appetite loss, and some forms of pain. While it can provide relief, it may also cause side effects like anxiety, a fast heartbeat, or short-term memory issues.

Its effects depend on the dose, the person, and how it’s used.

2. CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is the second most well-known cannabinoid, but unlike THC, it does not cause a “high.” People often use it for calming effects, stress relief, or to support sleep.

CBD has been studied for use with epilepsy, anxiety, inflammation, and pain. Many prefer it because it has fewer side effects compared to THC.

Some people may feel tired or notice changes in appetite when using it. Overall, CBD is seen as safe and is widely used in oils, creams, and capsules.

3. CBG (Cannabigerol)

CBG is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, come from it during plant growth. It is not as common as THC or CBD, but it plays a big role in how the plant develops.

CBG is being studied for possible benefits in reducing swelling, easing pain, and protecting nerve cells. It does not cause a “high.”

Even though it is less well-known, it may become more popular as research continues. Some people use it in oils and tinctures.

4. CBC (Cannabichromene)

CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. Early research shows it may help reduce swelling and pain. It also seems to play a role in mood by working with brain chemicals linked to happiness.

CBC may not be as strong alone, but could work better with other cannabinoids in what some call the “entourage effect.” This means cannabinoids may work better together than by themselves.

While CBC is still being studied, it shows promise in helping with skin health, mood, and pain.

5. CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN is a cannabinoid that forms when THC ages. Unlike THC, it does not cause a strong high, but it is known for its calming and sedative effects. People often use it in sleep aids, teas, or oils to support rest.

Some research suggests it may also help with pain or appetite. Since it comes from older cannabis, it is usually found in smaller amounts.

CBN products are growing in use for people who want better sleep without the stronger effects of THC.

6. THCV, CBDV, and Other Minor Cannabinoids

Besides the main cannabinoids, there are smaller ones like THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) and CBDV (Cannabidivarin). THCV may affect hunger and metabolism, with studies looking at its role in weight and blood sugar control.

CBDV is being studied for seizures and brain health. Though these cannabinoids are found in smaller amounts, they may have unique uses.

Research is still in its early stages, but as we learn more, these minor cannabinoids could become more important in health and wellness products.

Which Cannabinoid is Right for You?

With so many cannabinoids out there, it can be hard to know where to start. This quick guide helps match your needs with possible options based on common effects people report.

Here’s a simple chart to help you decide which cannabinoids might fit what you’re looking for:

Remember, everyone’s body responds differently. Start low, go slow, and pay attention to how you feel. If you’re unsure, talking with a doctor or trained cannabis specialist can give you more confidence and safety as you decide what’s right for you.

The Entourage Effect: How Cannabinoids Work Together

The entourage effect is a term used when different cannabinoids and even terpenes (plant smells) work better together than alone. Think of it like teamwork: one cannabinoid may support or balance the effects of another.

A good example is how CBD may reduce the anxiety caused by THC. While THC alone can make some people feel jittery or paranoid, mixing it with CBD often leads to a calmer, more balanced experience.

Other examples:

• CBG and CBD together may help with pain and nerve health.
• THCV and CBD are being studied for their effects on blood sugar and appetite.

This effect is why many full-spectrum cannabis products include a mix of cannabinoids, not just one.

Risks and Side Effects of Cannabinoids

While cannabinoids can have benefits, they also come with risks and side effects. It’s important to look at both short-term and long-term effects.

Short-term effects may include dry mouth, dizziness, changes in mood, and altered memory. Higher doses can trigger anxiety, rapid heartbeat, or impaired thinking in sensitive individuals. These effects often depend on the dose and the person’s sensitivity.

Long-term effects may include tolerance, where higher amounts are needed to feel the same result. Some people may experience dependence or changes in motivation and focus with heavy use.

There are also legal considerations, since cannabinoids are not treated the same way everywhere. Knowing the laws and risks can help you use them more safely.

Wrapping It Up

I wanted to give you a simple way to see how a cannabinoid chart can actually help. Now you and I both know that instead of guessing, you can look at a chart and clearly understand what each compound does.

This makes it easier for you to decide what fits best, if it’s for better sleep, calmer moods, or more focus in your day.

Take a moment to think about what stood out to you here and how you might use it. Start small, listen to your body, and give it time to respond.

I hope this information made things clearer for you. If you’d like to keep learning, go check out other blogs on the website for more easy and useful guides.