Properties and legality in Switzerland
The cannabis plant contains many cannabinoids. While THC and CBD are the best known, other molecules deserve attention for their potential properties on well-being: CBG, CBN and CBC.
Present in smaller quantities, these so-called “minor” cannabinoids play a key role in the plant and could act in a complementary manner, this is the entourage effect.
1. CBG (Cannabigerol) the “mother cannabinoid”
CBG is the base from which other cannabinoids are formed.
Potential properties of CBG:
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Anti-inflammatory;
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Neuroprotective;
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Muscle relaxant and anxiolytic;
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Ocular hypotensive (useful against glaucoma);
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Antidepressant;
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Antitumor (preliminary data).
Note: CBG is non-psychoactive and may boost concentration. Strains rich in CBG are often derived from Cannabis sativa, known to be energizing, help with concentration and combat fatigue.
2. CBC (Cannabichromene) the “complete relaxer”
CBC appears when its natural acid (CBCA) changes with time and heat.
Potential properties of CBC:
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Anti-inflammatory and analgesic;
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Antifungal and antibacterial (e.g. active against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus);
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Osteogenic (stimulates bone growth);
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Neurogenic and hippocampal-protective (linked to memory and learning);
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Synergistic with other cannabinoids (entourage effect).
Note: CBC acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors, but also on other receptors linked to pain and inflammation.
3. CBN (Cannabinol) the “natural sedative”
CBN is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid formed naturally when THC breaks down. It is therefore found in certain full spectrum oils or flowers.
Potential properties of CBN:
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Sedative and hypnogenic (promotes sleep);
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Analgesic;
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Orexigenic (stimulates the appetite);
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Antibacterial;
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Ocular hypotensive (reduces eye pressure);
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Osteogenic (promotes bone growth).
⚠️ Legality in Switzerland:
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Synthetic CBN is prohibited.
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Natural CBN present in traces in full spectrum oils or flowers is generally legal if the THC remains < 1%.
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The status of isolated CBN remains uncertain, which explains why pure CBN is not easily found legally in Switzerland.
Conclusion
Each cannabinoid has unique properties:
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CBG: precursor to other cannabinoids, often used for concentration, energy and its anti-inflammatory effects.
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CBC: present mainly in full spectrum products, promotes relaxation, skin health and neurogenesis.
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CBN: formed naturally when THC breaks down, known for its sedative effect and to promote sleep.
💡 Good to know: Full spectrum products combine these molecules to benefit from the entourage effect, while isolates and crumbles allow you to target a specific cannabinoid, such as CBG or CBD, with maximum purity.
💡 Legal note: The information above is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical or legal advice. The regulatory situation may change.