Formulation Strategies For Minor Cannabinoids (+ Products We Love)
Author: Nicole Brown (OBX Chief Revenue Officer)
Jan 4, 2021 – 8 min read
“Hey hey, are you ready for ?
(New formulations, new formulations)
Right now
Gonna take you over
(New formulations, new formulations)”
– INXS, New Sensations (OBX Formulator’s Remix)
Welcome to 2021! The future of cannabinoid products is bright due to the countless applications of pure, isolated minor cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, and CBDV. The new cannabinoid consumer is looking for an exact, consistent experience to reliably target either a particular medical ailment, or to bring about a specific, desired effect. At OBX, we build formulations designed to provide different health and wellness benefits, combining minor cannabinoids in precise ratios, and adding terpenes, vitamins, and other functional active compounds.
The ability to play with the cannabinoid ratio “lever” is one of the most exciting and powerful tools formulators have, especially as new technologies enable the isolation of more and more new cannabinoids.
OVERVIEW OF THE MINOR AND RARE CANNABINOIDS
As the Cannabis Sativa plant goes mainstream, the major cannabinoids — THC and CBD — are getting all the glory. However, the minor cannabinoids have huge potential, and may even be more powerful than their major counterparts.
CBG, or Cannabigerol, has shown potential in soothing inflammation, stimulating appetite, inhibiting cancer cell growth, and killing drug-resistant bacteria. CBG is further thought to help regulate mood thanks to its ability to boost anandamide, the body’s native “bliss” molecule, as well as act as a GABA reuptake inhibitor. which provides a range of benefits including mood elevation, anxiety relief, muscle relaxation, seizure relief, and more.
CBN, or Cannabinol, shows promise in promoting restful sleep and sedation, as well as pain relief and appetite stimulation. In topical products, CBN may also be helpful for treating psoriasis, dermatitis, and other skin irritating conditions.
CBC, or Cannabichromene, works well with other cannabis components like cannabinoids and terpenes and holds promise in elevating mood, reducing pain and inflammation, and supporting immune functions and bone growth. On the topical side, one of the most interesting potential applications for CBC is as a treatment for acne – a recent study found that several cannabinoids, including CBD and CBC, are effective for targeting the bacteria that cause acne and for reducing skin inflammation that causes reddened pimples and painful swelling.
THCV, or Tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a highly sought after cannabinoid due to its potential to suppress appetite, making THCV-dominant products ideal for weight management. THCV also has the potential to increase energy and focus. On the topical side, in the same study that identified CBC as a potential acne-fighting ingredient, THCV was found to be even more effective than CBD or CBC at fighting the causes of acne, which when combined with the anti-inflammatory effects of THCV and other cannabinoids, may one day lead to the development of acne medications with these cannabinoids as active ingredients.
CBDV, or Cannabidivarin, is structurally very similar to cannabidiol (CBD), but has a few different properties. Not many studies have been carried out on the effect of CBDV on the body, but researchers are currently studying its effects on various conditions including epilepsy, nausea, pain, inflammation, and mood disorders. CBDV can also boost the development of bones, possessing components that stimulate bone growth.
BEYOND CANNABINOIDS
Pairing cannabinoids with complementary active ingredients such as terpenes, botanicals, and vitamins can create custom formulations that go even further to deliver key benefits. See below for a few examples to consider for your formulations:
Sleep:
- GABA, L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine, Lemon Balm Extract
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Alpha Terpineol, Beta Caryophyllene, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene, Nerolidol, Phytol
Calm:
- Ashwagandha Root Extract, L-Tyrosine, L-Tryptophan
- Terpenes: Alpha Terpineol, Beta Caryophyllene, Borneol, Linalool, Myrcene, Terpinolene
Pain Relief:
- Boswellia Extract, Vitamin D3, Capsaicin
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Beta Caryophyllene, Eucalyptol, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene,Phytol
Immune Support
- Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc
- Terpenes: Alpha Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Beta Pinene, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene, Para Cymene, Valencene
Focus:
- Ginkgo Biloba, Omega-3 DHA, Valerian Root
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Alpha Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Beta Pinene, Gamma Terpinene, Geranyl Acetate, Limonene, Myrcene
MINOR CANNABINOID PRODUCTS WE LOVE
Many of the most cutting-edge and innovative brands are developing products featuring the minor and rare cannabinoids as heroes in their formulations, to help address conditions related to sleep, pain, and weight management. Below, we highlight some of our favorites.
TINCTURES
Dosist: In November 2020, dosist launched an innovative line of consumption forms including a new range of wellness-focused sublingual drops. The drops, available in sleep, calm, and relief, are offered under their new label, Dosist thc-free, marking Dosist’s official entry into the CBD marketplace.
- Relief thc-free includes a CBD to CBG ratio of 5:1 to treat pain and aches, with 900mg cannabinoid per bottle and 15mg for each dose.
- Sleep thc-free contains a 5:1 CBD:CBN ratio formula designed to help you fall asleep and stay asleep naturally, with 900mg of cannabinoid content per bottle and 15mg per dose.
- Calm thc-free has a CBD to CBG ratio of 10:1, to relax the body and the mind. The product contains 825mg of cannabinoid in each bottle and 13.75 in each dose.
Rare Cannabinoid Company: Based in Hawaii, the trailblazing company leads the rare and minor cannabinoid industry as the first to offer tinctures of THCV as well as single extracts of CBN, CBG, CBC, a full spectrum Rare Hawaiian CBD and one-to-one blends. Their Ready Blends feature high levels of specific rare cannabinoids and premium Rare Hawaiian Full Spectrum CBD Hemp Extract, including —
- CBG: CBD Defense (250mg CBG: 250mg CBD)
- CBN: CBD Rest (250mg CBN: 250mg CBD)
- CBC: CBD Protect (250mg CBC: 250mg CBD)
- THCV: CBD Uplift (250mg THCV: 250mg CBD)
Green Roads: One of the largest companies in the CBD industry, Green Roads has aimed its product expansion on two of the most pervasive issues facing consumers today: stress and sleeplessness. Their sleep line also includes a new Sweet Sleep formula, that marks the first time Green Roads has added the cannabinoid CBN (cannabinol) to a product.
VAPE PENS
Beboe, the pioneers of luxury cannabis, create ‘designer minor cannabinoid cocktails’ to enhance the experiences in their Inspired and Downtime vape pens.
Inspired Blend: Beboe’s Inspired Vape Pen formulation consists of a socially-dosed 65% THC potency, and designer minor cannabinoid cocktail featuring 12% CBG and 7% CBD, designed to deliver a gently uplifting and bright experience.
- Socially-dosed THC: ~65%
- Designer minor cannabinoid cocktail: ~12% CBG, ~7% CBD
Downtime Blend: Beboe’s Downtime Vape Pen features 15% CBD, and a completely custom-designed minor cannabinoid cocktail of CBN, CBG AND CBDV, to unwind and ease the mind and body.
- Socially-dosed: 60% THC
- Designer minor cannabinoid cocktail: ~15% CBD, ~2% CBN, ~5%CBG, ~2% CBDV
GUMMIES
Due to their convenience, ease of dose, and delightful taste, gummies are one of the most popular product types. They’re also an ideal choice for consumers looking to try any of the rare cannabinoids for the first time.
With its potential benefits for sleep and relaxation, CBN is a sought-after ingredient for sleep gummies. Two of the most popular gummy products featuring CBN are Incredibles’ Snoozzzeberry gummies, with 10mg THC and 2mg CBN per piece, and Kiva Confections’ Camino Midnight Blueberry gummies, pairing relaxing terpenes with a hint of chamomile and lavender along with 5mg of THC and 1mg of CBN to support a more restful night’s sleep
TABLETS
Last year, OBX joined forces with Volunteer Botanicals, pairing OBX’s rare cannabinoid ingredients with Volunteer’s flowable powder technology, allowing us to develop dynamic, efficacious products such as instant release tablets, oral dissolving tablets, and chewable tablets that will win the hearts and minds of even the most critical consumers.
Prolifera: Prolifera Instant Release Tablets are a fast acting way to intake specially formulated cannabinoids. The line features a CBG+CBD instant release tablet, with 25mg CBG + 25mg CBD per tablet, and a CBN+CBD instant release tablet, with 12mg CBN + 38mg CBD per tablet.
Temper: A first of its kind enhanced daily THCV supplement optimized to block hunger pains for longer, healthier lives.
TOPICALS & TRANSDERMALS
As we’ve outlined above, many of the rare cannabinoids can possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits, making them ideal components for many beauty and skincare products that seek to reduce irritation and other signs of stress in skin. Coupled with the potential anti-anxiety properties of cannabinoids, beauty and skincare products featuring the rare cannabinoids are truly a step ahead in the self-care game.
Lab to Beauty: Positioned as even more luxe, Lab to Beauty created the first-ever skincare collection to feature CBG, including a cleansing oil, face oil, moisture mask, repair cream, and body oil to provide “next-level healing and repair.”
Mary’s Medicinals: Best known for their award-winning transdermal patch, the formulations of Mary’s Medicinals products are a perfect example of the union of science and horticulture. Their rare cannabinoid products include their CBN Transdermal Patch and fast-acting CBN Transdermal Gel Pen.
Lygos: Lygos CBx and Metalabs are developing a new line of haircare and shampoo products with Lygos-CBG, designed for a deep cleansing and purifying process that promotes strand resistance while enhancing volume, shine and growth. Earlier last year, Lygos announced a partnership with High Beauty, to accelerate the formulation and commercialization of co-branded CBG cosmetic products, including High & Bye Refining Oil and Clearing Gel.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
With the ever-expanding category reach, cross-demographic potential and therapeutic range, it is an exciting time to be a product developer working with cannabinoid ingredients. The new avenues of working with high concentrations of minor and rare cannabinoids outlined above are just a few of the most exciting breakthroughs in the market to date.
As the science behind the health benefits of the individual cannabinoids and cannabinoid mixtures develops, the market is ripe for a plethora of new products. With consumer awareness and acceptance of the true medicinal benefits to be gained from cannabis at an all-time high, there has never been a better time for product formulators and manufacturers to start working with rare cannabinoid ingredients.
Formulators, mount up!
– Warren (CB)G
Formulation Strategies For Minor Cannabinoids (And Products We Love)
Author: Nicole Brown (OBX Chief Commercial Officer)
Jan 4, 2021 – 8 min read
“Hey hey, are you ready for ?
(New formulations, new formulations)
Right now
Gonna take you over
(New formulations, new formulations)”
– INXS, New Sensations (OBX Formulator’s Remix)
Welcome to 2021! The future of cannabinoid products is bright due to the countless applications of pure, isolated minor cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, and CBDV. The new cannabinoid consumer is looking for an exact, consistent experience to reliably target either a particular medical ailment, or to bring about a specific, desired effect. At OBX, we build formulations designed to provide different health and wellness benefits, combining minor cannabinoids in precise ratios, and adding terpenes, vitamins, and other functional active compounds.
The ability to play with the cannabinoid ratio “lever” is one of the most exciting and powerful tools formulators have, especially as new technologies enable the isolation of more and more new cannabinoids.
OVERVIEW OF THE MINOR AND RARE CANNABINOIDS
As the Cannabis Sativa plant goes mainstream, the major cannabinoids — THC and CBD — are getting all the glory. However, the minor cannabinoids have huge potential, and may even be more powerful than their major counterparts.
CBG, or Cannabigerol, has shown potential in soothing inflammation, stimulating appetite, inhibiting cancer cell growth, and killing drug-resistant bacteria. CBG is further thought to help regulate mood thanks to its ability to boost anandamide, the body’s native “bliss” molecule, as well as act as a GABA reuptake inhibitor. which provides a range of benefits including mood elevation, anxiety relief, muscle relaxation, seizure relief, and more.
CBN, or Cannabinol, shows promise in promoting restful sleep and sedation, as well as pain relief and appetite stimulation. In topical products, CBN may also be helpful for treating psoriasis, dermatitis, and other skin irritating conditions.
CBC, or Cannabichromene, works well with other cannabis components like cannabinoids and terpenes and holds promise in elevating mood, reducing pain and inflammation, and supporting immune functions and bone growth. On the topical side, one of the most interesting potential applications for CBC is as a treatment for acne – a recent study found that several cannabinoids, including CBD and CBC, are effective for targeting the bacteria that cause acne and for reducing skin inflammation that causes reddened pimples and painful swelling.
THCV, or Tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a highly sought after cannabinoid due to its potential to suppress appetite, making THCV-dominant products ideal for weight management. THCV also has the potential to increase energy and focus. On the topical side, in the same study that identified CBC as a potential acne-fighting ingredient, THCV was found to be even more effective than CBD or CBC at fighting the causes of acne, which when combined with the anti-inflammatory effects of THCV and other cannabinoids, may one day lead to the development of acne medications with these cannabinoids as active ingredients.
CBDV, or Cannabidivarin, is structurally very similar to cannabidiol (CBD), but has a few different properties. Not many studies have been carried out on the effect of CBDV on the body, but researchers are currently studying its effects on various conditions including epilepsy, nausea, pain, inflammation, and mood disorders. CBDV can also boost the development of bones, possessing components that stimulate bone growth.
BEYOND CANNABINOIDS
Pairing cannabinoids with complementary active ingredients such as terpenes, botanicals, and vitamins can create custom formulations that go even further to deliver key benefits. See below for a few examples to consider for your formulations:
Sleep:
- GABA, L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine, Lemon Balm Extract
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Alpha Terpineol, Beta Caryophyllene, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene, Nerolidol, Phytol
Calm:
- Ashwagandha Root Extract, L-Tyrosine, L-Tryptophan
- Terpenes: Alpha Terpineol, Beta Caryophyllene, Borneol, Linalool, Myrcene, Terpinolene
Pain Relief:
- Boswellia Extract, Vitamin D3, Capsaicin
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Beta Caryophyllene, Eucalyptol, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene,Phytol
Immune Support
- Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc
- Terpenes: Alpha Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Beta Pinene, Humulene, Limonene, Linalool, Myrcene, Para Cymene, Valencene
Focus:
- Ginkgo Biloba, Omega-3 DHA, Valerian Root
- Terpenes: Alpha Bisabolol, Alpha Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Beta Pinene, Gamma Terpinene, Geranyl Acetate, Limonene, Myrcene
MINOR CANNABINOID PRODUCTS WE LOVE
Many of the most cutting-edge and innovative brands are developing products featuring the minor and rare cannabinoids as heroes in their formulations, to help address conditions related to sleep, pain, and weight management. Below, we highlight some of our favorites.
TINCTURES
Dosist: In November 2020, dosist launched an innovative line of consumption forms including a new range of wellness-focused sublingual drops. The drops, available in sleep, calm, and relief, are offered under their new label, Dosist thc-free, marking Dosist’s official entry into the CBD marketplace.
- Relief thc-free includes a CBD to CBG ratio of 5:1 to treat pain and aches, with 900mg cannabinoid per bottle and 15mg for each dose.
- Sleep thc-free contains a 5:1 CBD:CBN ratio formula designed to help you fall asleep and stay asleep naturally, with 900mg of cannabinoid content per bottle and 15mg per dose.
- Calm thc-free has a CBD to CBG ratio of 10:1, to relax the body and the mind. The product contains 825mg of cannabinoid in each bottle and 13.75 in each dose.
Rare Cannabinoid Company: Based in Hawaii, the trailblazing company leads the rare and minor cannabinoid industry as the first to offer tinctures of THCV as well as single extracts of CBN, CBG, CBC, a full spectrum Rare Hawaiian CBD and one-to-one blends. Their Ready Blends feature high levels of specific rare cannabinoids and premium Rare Hawaiian Full Spectrum CBD Hemp Extract, including —
- CBG: CBD Defense (250mg CBG: 250mg CBD)
- CBN: CBD Rest (250mg CBN: 250mg CBD)
- CBC: CBD Protect (250mg CBC: 250mg CBD)
- THCV: CBD Uplift (250mg THCV: 250mg CBD)
Green Roads: One of the largest companies in the CBD industry, Green Roads has aimed its product expansion on two of the most pervasive issues facing consumers today: stress and sleeplessness. Their sleep line also includes a new Sweet Sleep formula, that marks the first time Green Roads has added the cannabinoid CBN (cannabinol) to a product.
VAPE PENS
Beboe, the pioneers of luxury cannabis, create ‘designer minor cannabinoid cocktails’ to enhance the experiences in their Inspired and Downtime vape pens.
Inspired Blend: Beboe’s Inspired Vape Pen formulation consists of a socially-dosed 65% THC potency, and designer minor cannabinoid cocktail featuring 12% CBG and 7% CBD, designed to deliver a gently uplifting and bright experience.
- Socially-dosed THC: ~65%
- Designer minor cannabinoid cocktail: ~12% CBG, ~7% CBD
Downtime Blend: Beboe’s Downtime Vape Pen features 15% CBD, and a completely custom-designed minor cannabinoid cocktail of CBN, CBG AND CBDV, to unwind and ease the mind and body.
- Socially-dosed: 60% THC
- Designer minor cannabinoid cocktail: ~15% CBD, ~2% CBN, ~5%CBG, ~2% CBDV
GUMMIES
Due to their convenience, ease of dose, and delightful taste, gummies are one of the most popular product types. They’re also an ideal choice for consumers looking to try any of the rare cannabinoids for the first time.
With its potential benefits for sleep and relaxation, CBN is a sought-after ingredient for sleep gummies. Two of the most popular gummy products featuring CBN are Incredibles’ Snoozzzeberry gummies, with 10mg THC and 2mg CBN per piece, and Kiva Confections’ Camino Midnight Blueberry gummies, pairing relaxing terpenes with a hint of chamomile and lavender along with 5mg of THC and 1mg of CBN to support a more restful night’s sleep
TABLETS
Last year, OBX joined forces with Volunteer Botanicals, pairing OBX’s rare cannabinoid ingredients with Volunteer’s flowable powder technology, allowing us to develop dynamic, efficacious products such as instant release tablets, oral dissolving tablets, and chewable tablets that will win the hearts and minds of even the most critical consumers.
Prolifera: Prolifera Instant Release Tablets are a fast acting way to intake specially formulated cannabinoids. The line features a CBG+CBD instant release tablet, with 25mg CBG + 25mg CBD per tablet, and a CBN+CBD instant release tablet, with 12mg CBN + 38mg CBD per tablet.
Temper: A first of its kind enhanced daily THCV supplement optimized to block hunger pains for longer, healthier lives.
TOPICALS & TRANSDERMALS
As we’ve outlined above, many of the rare cannabinoids can possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits, making them ideal components for many beauty and skincare products that seek to reduce irritation and other signs of stress in skin. Coupled with the potential anti-anxiety properties of cannabinoids, beauty and skincare products featuring the rare cannabinoids are truly a step ahead in the self-care game.
Lab to Beauty: Positioned as even more luxe, Lab to Beauty created the first-ever skincare collection to feature CBG, including a cleansing oil, face oil, moisture mask, repair cream, and body oil to provide “next-level healing and repair.”
Mary’s Medicinals: Best known for their award-winning transdermal patch, the formulations of Mary’s Medicinals products are a perfect example of the union of science and horticulture. Their rare cannabinoid products include their CBN Transdermal Patch and fast-acting CBN Transdermal Gel Pen.
Lygos: Lygos CBx and Metalabs are developing a new line of haircare and shampoo products with Lygos-CBG, designed for a deep cleansing and purifying process that promotes strand resistance while enhancing volume, shine and growth. Earlier last year, Lygos announced a partnership with High Beauty, to accelerate the formulation and commercialization of co-branded CBG cosmetic products, including High & Bye Refining Oil and Clearing Gel.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
With the ever-expanding category reach, cross-demographic potential and therapeutic range, it is an exciting time to be a product developer working with cannabinoid ingredients. The new avenues of working with high concentrations of minor and rare cannabinoids outlined above are just a few of the most exciting breakthroughs in the market to date.
As the science behind the health benefits of the individual cannabinoids and cannabinoid mixtures develops, the market is ripe for a plethora of new products. With consumer awareness and acceptance of the true medicinal benefits to be gained from cannabis at an all-time high, there has never been a better time for product formulators and manufacturers to start working with rare cannabinoid ingredients.
Formulators, mount up!
– Warren (CB)G
