Reefer’s Digest 2: The Others

If you’ve ever looked at the packaging for a weed product and seen a bunch of labels that say things like: THCa, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV, you’re not alone. Most people skip straight to the THC number, but if you read Reefer’s Digest 1, you would know that THC is just one face in a whole crowd of cannabinoids, and every single one of them plays a part in shaping how you feel. You will also know that there are more than a hundred cannabinoids. Today, we’re gonna focus on the major ones.

These are the compounds that turn “weed that gets you high” into cannabis that does something specific. They change the texture of the high, the mood, and even how long it lasts. Let’s break down the most common ones you’ll actually see on packaging, and what they’re really doing in your ganja.

THCa — Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (The Sleeping Giant)

When cannabis is raw, it doesn’t actually contain THC. It contains Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid, or THCa. This form isn’t psychoactive until it’s heated. When you spark your joint, hit a bowl, or bake an edible, THCa “decarboxylates” into THC, and that’s when the psychoactive effects begin. Here in canada THCa isn’t as advertised on products, but in parts of the world like Europe and the States, it’s quite common to see. So if your label says THCa 28% and THC 1%, don’t panic. Because once you spark up your doobie, that THCa becomes active. Think of THCa as THC before the wake-up call, except there’s no grumpy cannabinoid bugging you about what time it is and if it can sleep for “5 more minutes”.

CBG — Cannabigerol (The Mother Cannabinoid)

CBG stands for Cannabigerol, often called “the mother of all cannabinoids.” Early in the plant’s life, Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGa) is the chemical stem cell that transforms into THCa, CBDa, and CBCa as the plant matures. By harvest time, most of it’s already converted, leaving less than 1% in finished flower. Still, that tiny bit of CBG can make a difference, it’s non-intoxicating, clear, calm, and focused. CBG feels like clarity: light in the head, steady in the body.

CBN — Cannabinol (The Sleepy One)

Cannabinol, or CBN, forms when THC breaks down over time—through heat, air, or light. That’s why old or poorly stored weed often feels heavier and more sedative. CBN is only mildly psychoactive, but it’s known for its sleepy, couch-locking effect. You’ll find it in nighttime gummies or “chill” vapes because it helps calm the mind and body. CBN is the kind of cannabinoid you’ll be grateful for when you need a good nights sleep.

CBC — Cannabichromene (The Quiet Healer)

Cannabichromene, or CBC, doesn’t get much hype, but it’s an important supporting cannabinoid. It’s non-psychoactive, anti-inflammatory, and thought to boost the mood-enhancing effects of other compounds like THC and CBD. It works quietly in the background, helping cannabinoids communicate better with your body’s endocannabinoid system. Basically, if your THC has some CBC to back it up, the THC becomes a lot nicer and produces more of a full spectrum effect. CBC is the rhythm guitar—never flashy, but essential to the sound.

THCV — Tetrahydrocannabivarin (The Wild Card)

Here’s a rare one that’s starting to show up more often: Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV. At low doses, THCV actually blocks THC’s psychoactivity, making the high shorter, clearer, and less foggy. However, at higher doses, it flips—becoming mildly stimulating and uplifting. You’ll mostly find it in African landrace strains like Durban Poison or Doug’s Varin. Expect alertness, energy, and even reduced munchies. THCV is the espresso shot of cannabinoids—fast, sharp, and clean.

CBD — Cannabidiol (The Peacekeeper)

Everyone knows Cannabidiol, or CBD, but it’s worth mentioning here because of how it interacts with THC. It doesn’t get you high, but it shapes the high—taking off the edge, softening anxiety, and balancing the psychoactive effects of THC. Even a small percentage (1–2%) can make a strain smoother, longer-lasting, and more functional. CBD is the drummer—it keeps everything steady. Whenever you hear people talking about old weed being different than the modern stuff, a big player in that shift was the diminishing of cbd in strains when trying to breed for high THC. Some extra CBD harmonising with the THC in that flower is what really makes you giggle.

Putting It All Together

Every cannabinoid you see listed on your jar—THCa, THC, CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, CBD—adds its own tone to the mix. Together with terpenes, they form the entourage effect: that sweet chemical symphony where every note matters. Each one of these cannabinoids are what give the high its personality.

So next time you’re reading a label, don’t just chase the biggest number. Look at the whole lineup.

The Final Puff

Now that you know not just to focus on high THC, and you know what the other compounds do, you’re officially ready to get some weed while knowing what you’re in for.

Congratulations my young padawans, stoned you will be getting.