In addition to CBD, there are other cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, some of which are legal for use in the UK, while others are strictly prohibited. It is crucial to understand which cannabinoids are legal and what benefits they may offer, as well as those that are controlled substances and cannot be legally included in products in the UK.
1. Cannabigerol (CBG)
1.1. What Is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and a precursor to other cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC. CBG is often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it is the compound from which other cannabinoids are synthesised as the cannabis plant matures.
1.2. Legal Status of CBG in the UK:
CBG is legal in the UK, provided that it is derived from EU-approved industrial hemp with less than 0.2% THC content and that any finished product contains no more than 1mg of THC per unit.
1.3. Potential Benefits of CBG:
Anti-inflammatory properties: CBG may help reduce inflammation and has shown promise in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Antibacterial properties: CBG has demonstrated effectiveness against resistant bacteria like MRSA in early studies.
Neuroprotective effects: Some research suggests CBG may have neuroprotective properties, which could make it useful in conditions affecting the brain or nervous system.
2. Cannabichromene (CBC)
2.1. What Is CBC?
Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, particularly the TRPV1 receptors, which are involved in pain perception.
2.2. Legal Status of CBC in the UK:
Like CBG, CBC is legal in the UK, as long as it is derived from industrial hemp and the THC content in the finished product is below the legal threshold of 1mg per product.
2.3. Potential Benefits of CBC:
Anti-inflammatory: CBC has shown potential in reducing inflammation, which could make it useful in managing chronic inflammatory conditions.
Pain relief: CBC’s interaction with pain receptors may help with analgesia and could be useful in products aimed at pain management.
Mood-enhancing properties: CBC may help increase levels of anandamide, a natural endocannabinoid that is associated with mood regulation.
Cannabinoids That Are Prohibited in the UK
Several cannabinoids, including CBN, Delta-8 THC, and HHC, are considered controlled substances in the UK and are not legal for sale or use. These cannabinoids are classified as cannabinols under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and are regulated due to their psychoactive or intoxicating effects.
Cannabinol (CBN):
CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is formed as THC degrades over time. In the UK, CBN is considered a controlled substance and is illegal for sale or use in consumer products.
Delta-8 THC:
Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is structurally similar to Delta-9 THC but produces a milder effect. Like Delta-9 THC, it is illegal in the UK as it falls under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Any product containing Delta-8 THC is prohibited.
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC):
HHC is a hydrogenated form of THC and has recently emerged in certain markets as an alternative cannabinoid. However, HHC is considered a controlled substance in the UK and is illegal under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Regulatory Compliance for Cannabinoids in the UK
If you are producing or selling CBD products in the UK, it’s essential to understand the legal status of all cannabinoids and ensure that your products do not contain prohibited substances such as CBN, Delta-8 THC, or HHC.
Testing for Cannabinoid Content:
Certificates of Analysis (COAs): Ensure that your products are regularly tested by a third-party laboratory to verify that they contain only legal cannabinoids, such as CBD, CBG, and CBC, and that they do not exceed the legal THC limit of 1mg per product.
Labelling Requirements:
Be transparent with your product labelling by clearly listing all cannabinoids present in the product, and ensure you provide accurate dosage and safety information for consumers.
Consumer Preferences and Educating Your Audience
As the CBD market evolves, consumers are becoming more aware of cannabinoids beyond CBD. Educating your customers about legal cannabinoids, such as CBG and CBC, and their potential benefits can help you stand out in the market while ensuring compliance with UK laws.
Marketing Strategies:
Focus on cannabinoids that are legal and offer potential benefits, such as CBG and CBC, and highlight how they can complement CBD in wellness or skincare products.
Educate your audience: Use blogs, social media, and product descriptions to educate consumers about the differences between legal cannabinoids like CBG and CBC and controlled substances like CBN or Delta-8 THC, which are illegal in the UK.
