C₂₁H₃₀O₂ · 314.46 g/mol
2-methyl-2-(4-methylpent-3-en-1-yl)-7-pentylchromen-5-ol
Non-psychoactive cannabinoid — anti-inflammatory, neurogenic, antidepressant
Cannabichromene is the third most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis and one of the least studied major cannabinoids. Unlike THC, CBC does not bind CB1 receptors with significant affinity and is non-psychoactive. It activates TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels, inhibits anandamide reuptake, and interacts with CB2 receptors. Preclinical research has identified anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant, and neurogenic properties, with CBC showing particular promise for promoting neural stem cell viability.
Studies Indexed
340+
Half-Life
Not well characterized
Primary Receptors
TRPV1, TRPA1, CB2 (weak), anandamide reuptake inhibitor
Last Updated
June 2026
CBC is synthesized from CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) via the enzyme CBCA synthase, making it a sibling compound to THC and CBD in the cannabinoid biosynthetic pathway. It is most abundant in tropical cannabis varieties and in young cannabis plants before CBCA fully converts to CBC. CBC's pharmacological profile is distinct: it does not bind CB1 receptors with meaningful affinity (explaining its lack of psychoactivity) but activates TRP channels (TRPV1 and TRPA1) that are involved in pain and inflammation signaling. CBC also inhibits the reuptake of anandamide, potentially enhancing endocannabinoid tone. The most intriguing preclinical finding is CBC's ability to promote the viability of neural stem progenitor cells — cells that differentiate into neurons and glia — suggesting potential neuroprotective and neurogenic applications. CBC also shows synergistic anti-inflammatory effects with THC and CBD in preclinical models, contributing to the entourage effect hypothesis.
Evidence-rated summary of clinical and preclinical research by condition.
CBC significantly increased the viability of neural stem progenitor cells in vitro, promoting their differentiation into neurons. This neurogenic effect is unique among phytocannabinoids and suggests potential for neurodegenerative disease applications.
CBC inhibits inflammation in animal models of colitis and edema, acting through TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels rather than CB2 receptors. Shows synergistic anti-inflammatory effects with THC and CBD.
CBC produced antidepressant-like effects in the mouse forced swim test, comparable to CBD. The mechanism may involve anandamide reuptake inhibition and TRPV1 activation. No human clinical data available.
CBC reduces pain in animal models via TRPV1 desensitization and anandamide reuptake inhibition. May contribute to the analgesic entourage effect of whole-plant cannabis preparations.
CBC inhibited lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands and reduced arachidonic acid-induced sebaceous lipogenesis in vitro, suggesting potential for acne treatment similar to CBD.
Peer-reviewed research with DOI links
De Petrocellis L, Ligresti A, Moriello AS, et al.
British Journal of Pharmacology
Demonstrated that CBC inhibits anandamide reuptake and activates TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels, characterizing its pharmacological mechanisms and distinguishing it from THC and CBD.
DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01327.xShinjyo N, Di Marzo V
Neurochemistry International
CBC increased neural stem progenitor cell viability and produced antidepressant-like effects in mouse behavioral models, suggesting neurogenic and mood-modulating properties.
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2013.04.012Known interactions with pharmaceutical drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before combining. Full interactions database →
| Drug / Class | Severity | Mechanism | Clinical Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| CYP450 substrates | minor | CBC may inhibit CYP450 enzymes in vitro; clinical significance unknown | Theoretical drug interactions at high doses; no clinical data available |
| Anandamide-elevating drugs (FAAH inhibitors) | minor | Additive anandamide reuptake inhibition | Potential additive endocannabinoid enhancement; clinical significance unknown |
Critical questions that remain unanswered in the current literature — representing the frontier of CBC (Cannabichromene) research.
Explore the clinical and preclinical evidence for CBC (Cannabichromene) across these therapeutic areas.
