February 6, 2025
Succeeding in the CBD Business: Leveraging Rare Cannabinoids and Nutraceuticals to Elevate Your Brand
The CBD industry has witnessed exponential growth over the last decade, with new innovations constantly reshaping the landscape. As the market becomes saturated, businesses are looking for ways to stand out, and incorporating rare cannabinoids alongside nutraceuticals has emerged as a key strategy for success.
The CBD Market: Gummies, Tinctures, and Topicals Lead the Charge
The three dominant categories within the CBD market—gummies, tinctures, and topicals—continue to capture significant market share. According to a recent market analysis, CBD gummies currently lead the charge, holding an impressive 58% of the edibles category. The convenience, taste, and precise dosing make gummies particularly popular among consumers. On the other hand, tinctures hold a 30% market share in the overall CBD market, appealing to a health-conscious demographic that values quick absorption and versatile applications. Topicals, which include creams, lotions, and balms, have a 22% market share, driven by their localized therapeutic effects for pain relief and skincare.
Unlocking the Power of Rare Cannabinoids
To elevate a CBD brand in a crowded marketplace, businesses need to innovate beyond standard formulations. Rare cannabinoids such as Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabinol (CBN), Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), and Cannabichromene (CBC) are emerging as high-value ingredients. Each of these cannabinoids offers distinct therapeutic properties, which can set your products apart.
By incorporating these rare cannabinoids into your product lines, you can target niche markets, such as those looking for specialized health benefits like sleep, energy, and pain relief. This differentiation will not only elevate your brand but also allow you to charge premium prices.
#1. CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, making it ideal for products aimed at brain health and inflammation management.
#2. CBN (Cannabinol)
CBN is gaining traction as a potent sleep aid, which makes it valuable in formulating sleep gummies or tinctures.
#3. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
THCV is often marketed for its potential to suppress appetite and regulate energy, appealing to the wellness and weight management segments.
#4. CBC (Cannabichromene)
CBC has shown promise in improving mood and fighting acne, making it a powerful addition to skincare products.
The Rise of Nutraceuticals: Adding Science-backed Benefits
As consumers become more educated, they are seeking products that combine the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids with the well-documented benefits of nutraceuticals. Nutraceuticals such as ashwagandha, melatonin, turmeric, and lion’s mane are being paired with cannabinoids to create synergistic effects.
For example, melatonin combined with CBD or CBN can create a more potent sleep aid, while turmeric, with its anti-inflammatory properties, pairs well with CBD or CBG in pain-relief products. Adaptogens like ashwagandha are being incorporated into CBD products to support stress relief and anxiety management, appealing to the growing demand for holistic wellness solutions.
The nutraceutical market is projected to reach $651 billion by 2030, and this demand for plant-based, science-backed health supplements is only expected to grow. CBD brands that successfully incorporate nutraceuticals into their formulations will be poised to capture a larger share of this expanding market.
Where Is the CBD Market Heading?
The global CBD market, currently valued at around $7.8 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to over $19 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.8%. The next phase of growth will likely come from the convergence of cannabinoids and wellness trends. Products that offer multifaceted health benefits, such as combining cannabinoids with nutraceuticals, are set to lead the charge.
Furthermore, demand for transparency and efficacy will drive consumers toward brands that offer well-researched, lab-tested products. As rare cannabinoids become more accessible and nutraceutical integration becomes more mainstream, the companies that invest in high-quality ingredients and clinical validation will win over discerning consumers.
The Future of CBD and Nutraceutical Synergy
To succeed in the future CBD market, brands need to stay ahead of consumer preferences and focus on innovation. Combining the power of rare cannabinoids with the well-documented efficacy of nutraceuticals offers a clear path for differentiation and growth. As more studies validate the benefits of these compounds, expect to see an influx of products targeting specific health outcomes, such as brain health, muscle recovery, sleep, and immune support.
CBD businesses that focus on education, transparency, and cutting-edge formulations will be able to capture a growing, wellness-focused consumer base. By integrating rare cannabinoids and nutraceuticals into your brand strategy, you are not only staying ahead of trends but also setting the stage for long-term success.
Clinical Research References
CBG (Cannabigerol) Clinical Research References
CBG (Cannabigerol): A Summary
Cannabigerol CBG is one of more than 120 identified cannabinoid compounds found in the plant genus Cannabis. Cannabigerol is the decarboxylated form of Cannabigerolic Acid CBGa, the parent molecule from which other cannabinoids are synthesized. Cannabigerol is a rare cannabinoid that is a minor constituent of cannabis. During plant growth, most of the cannabigerol is converted into other cannabinoids, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), leaving about 1% cannabigerol in the plant.
Like THC, CBG reacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. CBG, however, acts as a buffer to the psychoactivity of THC by working to alleviate the paranoia sometimes caused by higher levels of THC. Clinical research reveals that CBG works to fight inflammation, pain, nausea and works to slow the proliferation of cancer cells. Research has also shown it to significantly reduce intraocular eye pressure caused by glaucoma. Strains high in CBG may be beneficial treating conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and cancer.
CBG acts as a low-affinity antagonist at the CB1 receptor. CBG pharmacological activity at the CB2 receptor is currently unknown. CBG’s antibacterial effects can alter the overall effects of cannabis. CBG is known to kill or slow bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, (particularly in its acidic CBGA form,) inhibit cell growth in tumor/cancer cells, and promote bone growth.
Another effect CBG has on the brain is that it inhibits the uptake of GABA, a brain chemical that determines how much stimulation a neuron needs to cause a reaction. When GABA is inhibited it can decrease anxiety and muscle tension similar to the effects of cannabidiol (CBD).
When ingested orally, CBG can produce an energetic feeling (referred to by some as a “body high”). Common delivery systems for CBG-rich products are primarily tinctures and gummies.
Some Notable CBG Studies:
Benefits of VCE-003.2, a cannabigerol quinone derivative, against inflammation-driven neuronal deterioration in experimental Parkinson’s disease: possible involvement of different binding sites at the PPARγ receptor
Colon carcinogenesis is inhibited by the TRPM8 antagonist cannabigerol, a Cannabis-derived non-psychotropic cannabinoid
Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease
A Cannabigerol Quinone Alleviates Neuroinflammation in a Chronic Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Evidence that the plant cannabinoid cannabigerol is a highly potent α2-adrenoceptor agonist and moderately potent 5HT1A receptor antagonist
CBN (Cannabinol) Clinical Research References
CBN (Cannabinol) : A Summary
Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid found in trace amounts in Cannabis sativa. CBN is mostly found in cannabis that is aged and stored, and is derived from the plant’s main psychoactive chemical, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBN was the first cannabis compound to be isolated from cannabis extract in the late 1800s. Then by the 1930s, the first to have its structure determined and in 1940, to have scientists achieve its chemical synthesis.
CBN acts as a weak agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 receptors, with greater affinity for CB2 receptors than CB1. The degradation of THC into CBN is often described as creating a sedative effect, known as a “couch lock”. For this reason, CBN is widely referred to as “the sleep molecule”.
The research on cannabinol (CBN) is still lacking, but some early studies have suggested it could stimulate bone growth. If that’s the case, it would be helpful in treating osteoporosis. It may also help those with broken bones to recover more quickly. This cannabinoid has also been shown in studies to help regulate the immune system and works to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by several conditions, including arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Other studies show that it can be used to reduce the intraocular eye pressure caused by glaucoma. CBN acts as an anticonvulsant, so it is also beneficial to patients suffering from seizure disorders including epilepsy.
Some Notable CBN Studies:
Potential Use of Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study
Turning Over a New Leaf: Cannabinoid and Endocannabinoid Modulation of Immune Function
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) Clinical Research References
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): A Summary
THCV is a homologue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) having a propyl (3-carbon) side chain instead of a pentyl (5-carbon) group on the molecule, which makes it produce very different effects from THC. THCV is a cannabinoid receptor type 1 antagonist and cannabinoid receptor type 2 partial agonist. Δ8-THCV has also been shown to be a CB1 antagonist. THCV is an antagonist of THC at CB1 receptors and lessens the psychoactive effects of THC.
Unlike THC, cannabidiol CBD, and cannabichromene (CBC), THCV doesn’t begin as cannabigerolic acid CBGA. Instead of combining with olivetolic acid to create CBGA, geranyl pyrophosphate joins with divarinolic acid, which has two fewer carbon atoms. The result is cannabigerovarin acid CBGVA. Once CBGVA is created, the process continues exactly the same as it would for THC. CBGVA is broken down to tetrahydrocannabivarin carboxylic acid THCVA by the enzyme THCV synthase. At that point, THCVA can be decarboxylated with heat or UV light to create THCV.
THCV is prevalent in certain central Asian and southern African strains of Cannabis. Plants with elevated levels of propyl cannabinoids (including THCV) have been found in populations of Cannabis sativa L from China, India, Nepal, Thailand, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, as well as southern and western Africa. THCV levels up to 53.7% of total cannabinoids have been reported.
THC increases appetite (“the munchies”) by acting as a CB1 agonist. As a CB1 antagonist, THCV has been shown to reduce appetite in clinical studies of murine models. THCV has recently been embraced by hemp product marketers as “the weight loss cannabinoid” based on reasonably compelling animal model science in this arena in the early 2000’s that is now becoming more noticed and cited by cannabis researchers. Other research suggests that THCV is a new potential treatment against obesity-associated glucose intolerance with pharmacology different from that of CB1 inverse agonists/antagonists.
Some Notable THCV Studies:
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes
Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabivarin on Glycemic and Lipid Parameters in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Pilot Study
Neural Effects of Cannabinoid CB1 Neutral Antagonist Tetrahydrocannabivarin on Food Reward and Aversion in Healthy Volunteers
The cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) ameliorates insulin sensitivity in two mouse models of obesity
Synthetic and plant-derived cannabinoid receptor antagonists show hypophagic properties in fasted and non-fasted mice
The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin
R G Pertwee | January 2008 | British Journal of Pharmacology | Full Text
The psychoactive plant cannabinoid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is antagonized by Δ8- and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin in mice in vivo
Evidence that the plant cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin is a cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonist
CBC (Cannabichromene) Clinical Research References
CBC (Cannabichromene): A Summary
Cannabichromene (CBC), also called cannabichrome, is one of more than 120 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant and is, therefore, a phytocannabinoid. It bears structural similarity to the other natural cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN), among others. CBC and its derivatives are as abundant as cannabinol in cannabis. It is more common in tropical cannabis varieties. CBC is non-psychoactive and does not affect the psychoactivity of THC. CBC acts on the TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, interfering with their ability to break down endocannabinoids (chemicals such as anandamide and 2-AG that the body creates naturally).
CBC battles inflammation by activating the CB2 receptor. However, because it does not activate CB1, the healing potential of CBC could be enhanced when combined with cannabinoids that do, such as THC. CBC (not unlike THC and CBD) has been shown to encourage the human brain to grow by increasing the viability of developing brain cells in a process known as neurogenesis. CBC plays a significant role in the anti-cancer and anti-tumor capabilities of cannabis.
Not only does CBC have benefits of its own, but it seems to work with the other cannabinoids to produce a synergistic effect; it gives merit to the saying, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” Even though cannabichromene is found in much smaller concentrations than THC and CBD, its importance should not be overlooked. Never underestimate the power of the entourage effect.
Within the Cannabis plant, CBC occurs mainly as Cannabichromenic Acid (CBCa). Geranyl pyrophosphate and olivetolic acid combine to produce cannabigerolic acid (CBGa; the sole intermediate precursor for all other cannabinoids), which is cyclized by the enzyme CBCa synthase to form CBCa. Over time, or when heated above 200° F, CBCa is decarboxylated, producing CBC.
Clinical research has suggested that CBC may play a role in the anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects of cannabis, and may contribute to the overall analgesic effects of medical cannabis. A study done in March 2010 showed that CBC along with cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have antidepressant effects. Another study showed that CBC helps promote neurogenesis.
Some Notable CBC Studies:
A potential role for cannabichromene in modulating TRP channels during acute respiratory distress syndrome
Cannabis-Derived Compounds Cannabichromene and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Interact and Exhibit Cytotoxic Activity against Urothelial Cell Carcinoma Correlated with Inhibition of Cell Migration and Cytoskeleton Organization
Cannabichromene
Pharmacological Evaluation of the Natural Constituent of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabichromene and its Modulation by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
Biological Activity of Cannabichromene, its Homologs and Isomers
Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects
Ethan B. Russo | August 2011 | British Journal of Pharmacology | Full Text
Final Thoughts
As the CBD market evolves, the brands that succeed will be those that adapt to the growing demand for innovation and efficacy. By incorporating rare cannabinoids and synergistic nutraceuticals into your product line, you can elevate your brand above the competition. The future is bright for companies that embrace this convergence of wellness trends, and with the right strategy, your brand can thrive in this competitive industry.
About Rich Weisner
My goal is to help businesses scale and succeed by offering personalized support, industry knowledge, and access to cutting-edge manufacturing technology. Let’s connect and explore how we can collaborate to bring your product ideas to life!
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