Employed for thousands of years for its pain-relieving properties by cultures worldwide, the oldest documented use of cannabis for pain relief dates back to ancient China around 2900 BCE. Emperor Shen Nung. Regarded as the father of Chinese medicine, Nung wrote about cannabis in the "Pen Ts'ao Ching" (The Classic of Herbal Medicine), highlighting its efficacy in treating various ailments, including pain.
According to research published in 2023, 30% of medical marijuana patients use cannabis as a treatment for chronic pain. Here, we’ll take a deeper look at the latest research on cannabis for pain-management, comparing different cannabinoids for pain, including THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV. As we explore the potential of cannabis for pain relief, you’ll learn which cannabinoid, or combination of cannabinoids, might be best for you.
Comparing Different Cannabinoids for Pain
Increased cannabis research in recent years has led to some exciting discoveries about the influence of different cannabinoids on pain. In a September 2024 review, for example, researchers explored five placebo-controlled randomized control studies on the therapeutic potential of using cannabinoids for chronic pain management. They found cannabis offered significant relief from chronic pain compared to a placebo, concluding by saying that the “ability of cannabinoids to provide pain relief with minimal side effects and be a naturally derived product may potentially be a life-changing alternative that the pharmaceutical market is in dire need of.”
Another review published in November 2024 explored the use of cannabis for peripheral neuropathic pain. This is caused from damage to the peripheral nerves (located outside the brain and spinal cord) by nerve injury and trauma that leads to things like tingling, burning, stabbing pain, numbness, or weakness in the hands and feet. Based on analysis of 14 randomized control trials, researchers found that cannabis-based medicines could be effective, suggesting they could be used as a potential treatment for peripheral neuropathy. They also found evidence for improvements in sleep and quality of life.
The potential of different cannabinoids for pain management comes down to the way they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), one of the body’s primary systems that regulates pain processing. Cannabinoids acting at CB1 receptors, for example, are shown to regulate neurotransmission throughout the body. Cannabinoids that act on CB2 receptors, on the other hand, regulate the activity of immune cells in the central nervous system.
Because cannabinoids influence CB1 and CB2 receptors in different ways, each cannabinoid plays its own unique role in potential pain support. Understanding the differences and similarities of different cannabinoids for pain management is essential to choosing cannabis products that effectively support your pain-relief needs.
THC
THC is the most commonly occurring and most-widely studied cannabinoid found in cannabis. While research of the pain-relieving properties of cannabis are still somewhat limited, there is evidence that shows cannabis with higher concentrations of THC is most effective for modulating pain. THC shows tremendous potential for managing pain specifically associated with severe chronic pain, neuropathic pain, phantom limb pain, cancer-related pain, and intraocular pressure pain from glaucoma.
For example, a recent study published in December 2024 analyzed data of 741 medical cannabis patients with chronic pain that examined the following in comparison to pain relief:
- Age
- Sex
- Type of pain (muscle, joint or nerve pain)
- Cannabis formulation (high CBD, balanced CBD:THC, or high THC)
- Consumption method (inhaled or ingested)
- Cannabis use before vs. during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Duration of cannabis use
It found “statistically substantial” evidence for the relief of joint pain, long-term use of balanced THC/CBD products, and that people who use cannabis medicinally report increased pain relief. Researchers also noted men may experience greater pain relief than women.
THC vs Other Cannabinoids
CBD
Aside from THC, CBD is the most popular and widely studied cannabinoid that exists. A 2024 survey showed that 64% of people who currently use CBD use the cannabinoid for relief of pain and inflammation, and that 36% of people use CBD in addition to another prescription medication. While more studies are needed to say for sure, there’s a large body of evidence to support that the non-psychoactive cannabinoid is effective for managing pain.
Both THC and CBD hold promise for pain relief, but a 2022 study that looked at the therapeutic potential of THC and CBD for chronic pain and mental health conditions, found it’s THC that’s particularly effective for pain relief, especially chronic and inflammatory pain. CBD, on the other hand, was found effective for stress and anxiety relief, but less so for pain.
In a September 2024 review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, researchers explored developing research on the epigenetic modifications (changes to the structure of DNA that affects gene expression) of opioid and cannabinoid receptors with a focus on CBD for pain management. They highlighted that certain epigenetic activators or inhibitors could potentially modulate injury-induced neuropathic pain, and that CBD is a “promising” therapeutic agent to traditional pain medications due to its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential.
A systematic review published in October 2024 examined 40 studies (from an initial list of 500) to gather information on clinical and preclinical evidence of CBD for pain management, which revealed CBD may be an effective option for reducing pain because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Authors noted these therapeutic effects are primarily caused by activation of TRPV-1, 5HT-1A, and CB1 receptors.
That said, researchers noted that combining THC and CBD may enhance pain relief and reduce some of THC’s less desirable side effects.
This means cannabis products with a balanced CBD/THC ratio could potentially be more beneficial for pain relief than THC or CBD alone. The presence of CBD in these blends can also reduce the intensity of THC’s psychoactive effects, making it especially beneficial for individuals sensitive to THC or those who desire relief without excessive intoxication.
CBG
THC may be more effective at managing chronic pain compared to CBG, however, both cannabinoids are known for supporting individuals who suffer from chronic pain. CBG shows to be effective at lower doses for pain than THC, but THC may be more effective for strong pain at higher doses. CBG also shows better efficacy than THC for managing pain associated with digestive issues.
Combining the two powerful pain-relieving cannabinoids may lead to enhanced pain-relieving efficacy, especially for individuals interested in daytime relief. This is because CBG is known to improve energy and decrease fatigue, particularly when combined with CBD. Cannabis products with a blend of CBG, THC and CBD could provide increased daytime pain relief due to the presence of other pain-relieving cannabinoids that contribute to the entourage effect.
CBN
Because CBN is a cannabinoid that occurs when THC degrades, the two may have similar pain-relieving properties. That said, CBN may help reduce muscle pain more effectively than THC, with potentially enhanced benefits in THC/CBN products.
Because of CBN’s sedative-like effects, it’s suggested to be especially helpful with sleep-related pain. When CBN is combined with an indica-dominant THC cannabis strain, which has more of a sedating effect and is typically preferred for chronic pain compared to sativa-dominant strains, it may be especially beneficial for managing pain that disrupts sleep.
CBC
While research on CBC for pain is somewhat limited, like other cannabinoids, it’s suggested to play a role in pain management. Both THC and CBC demonstrate powerful potential anti-inflammatory properties. When combined, the two cannabinoids may provide an enhanced pain-relieving effect for pain associated with inflammation.
THCV
Research shows THCV may provide relief from inflammatory pain. When THCV is taken with THC, it’s believed the two work synergistically together, enhancing the therapeutic pain-relieving potential of each.
CBD
In a 2022 review, researchers looked at several studies on the efficacy of CBD for chronic pain. They discovered the non-psychoactive cannabinoid contains potential relief from neuropathic pain, cancer pain, and nociceptive pain, depending on the administered dose.
CBD vs Other Cannabinoids for Pain
THC
While there is evidence that shows individuals taking hemp-derived CBD with opioid medication experienced a 53.2% decrease in opioid use, it’s still suggested that CBD works better for pain relief when combined with THC than CBD alone.
CBG
When compared to CBD, CBG could be more effective for supporting physical pain. This could be connected to its binding affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors compared to CBD that shows little binding affinity for either cannabinoid receptor. CBG might also work better for specific types of pain, particularly neuropathic pain. That said, CBG may work better with CBD for pain than it does on its own.
CBN
Both CBN and CBD show potential for pain relief, CBN is suggested to be more effective than CBD for supporting pain that disrupts sleep. There’s research, however, to support that taking the cannabinoids together could enhance their analgesic effects.
THCV
Although THCV is better known for its potential effects on appetite suppression and commonly marketed as cannabinoid that may support weight loss, there is evidence that supports it contains anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it may benefit inflammatory pain. Because CBD also contains anti-inflammatory potential, taking the cannabinoids together may enhance their potential to relieve pain associated with inflammation.
CBG
CBG is commonly referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” because all other cannabinoids are synthesized from cannabigerolic acid, the cannabinoid’s acidic form. So, what is CBG good for? Can you use CBG for pain? Well, several preclinical studies suggest CBG contains potent pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Because of its powerful antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, it may help support pain associated with oxidative stress and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. One study even reported using CBG for pain could contain more potent analgesic properties than THC. CBG, in particular, has shown to be effective in supporting bladder pain, IBD, and IBS. That said, it’s believed CBG’s pain relieving properties may increase when THC and CBG are combined. Like CBD, it’s shown to reduce the psychoactive effects of THC.
CBG vs Other Cannabinoids
THC
Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychoactive and may offer stronger pain relief than THC, with one study reporting it could contain more potent analgesic properties than THC. While THC is suggested to support chronic pain, CBG may reduce pain specifically associated with bladder and gastrointestinal issues.
That said, a 2022 survey of patients using CBG-dominant cannabis products found 40% of participants used it for chronic pain, with the majority saying their conditions were “very much improved.” Almost 74% said CBG-dominant cannabis products were superior to conventional pain treatments.
CBD
Like CBD, CBG has shown to reduce the psychoactive effects of THC. This makes products that contain CBG and THC, such as our Mendo Sauce: 1:1, Mendo Crumble Special Sauce RSO with 750mg THC, 30mg CBG, and 20mg CBC, ideal for users interested in pain relief without the intense psychoactive effects of THC.
CBN
CBG and CBN both show potential for relieving pain. Unlike CBN, however, CBG provides potential pain relief without sedation. When used for pain, CBN is typically taken to help with physical discomfort that disrupts sleep.
CBC
CBC is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s suggested to contain powerful pain-relieving properties. A 2024 study, for example, highlighted that the cannabinoid contains anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antibacterial, and antinociceptive effects. In another 2024 study that looked specifically at the antinociceptive potential of CBC, it was discovered it could reduce neuropathic pain by activating PPAR receptors, which shows to reduce neuropathic pain in animal models. The study also found CBC could be beneficial for both acute and chronic pain.
CBC vs Other Cannabinoids
THC
With research that reveals both CBC and THC exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties when combined it might enhance pain relief for inflammation-related pain. Unlike THC, CBC does not produce psychoactive effects, which could make it more suitable for those interested in supporting inflammatory pain that don’t care for the intoxicating effects of THC.
CBD
CBC and CBD share anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties, contributing to pain management. That said, CBC might offer additional antibacterial benefits CBD doesn’t. Combining the two, however, could lead to enhanced relief because of their synergistic interaction that supports the entourage effect.
CBG
CBG and CBC both demonstrate powerful anti-inflammatory properties. CBC’s potential efficacy in reducing neuropathic pain complements CBG’s powerful antioxidant properties. Together, they enhance relief in both acute and chronic pain.
CBN
CBN is a cannabinoid that results from the oxidation and degradation of THC, meaning THC converts to CBN as it ages. What does CBN do? It is associated with mild psychoactive effects, although some consumers don’t report feeling “high” when consuming CBN. It’s widely promoted for sleep and relaxation, CBN is often combined with other cannabinoid blends created specifically for getting a good night’s rest. It’s one of the least explored of all the minor cannabinoids, however, recent research reveals taking CBN nightly could be helpful for improving overall sleep.
CBN vs Other Cannabinoids
THC
Both CBN and THC can assist with sleep, but CBN is particularly noted for its sedative effects. The psychoactive effects of THC are stronger than CBN, meaning CBN or high-CBN/low-THC cannabis products might benefit consumers sensitive to THC interested in using cannabinoids for pain that makes it difficult to sleep.
CBD
CBN and CBD both offer potential pain relief, but CBN may be more effective for pain that interferes with sleep. CBD’s potential anxiety-reducing properties complement CBN’s sedative effects, however, making a combination of the two ideal for those seeking both relief from sleep problems associated with anxiety.
CBG
CBN and CBG both show promise in pain management but there is a major difference of CBN vs CBG. CBN is more sedative, making it suitable for nighttime use, CBG is known for boosting energy and reducing fatigue, meaning it’s better for daytime relief when you don’t want to feel drowsy.
THCV
THCV has a similar structure to THC and is reportedly only psychoactive when taken in large doses. THCV has shown to reduce appetite, increase satiety, and positively affect glycemic control, it may be a useful treatment for obesity and diabetes. A 2023 study highlighted the cannabinoid contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it may help mitigate inflammatory pain in conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more.
THCV vs Other Cannabinoids
THC
When it comes to THCV vs THC, the two cannabinoids share structural similarities but THCV only shows psychoactivity at high doses, unlike THC, which is psychoactive at most doses depending on tolerance and sensitivity. They also share similar potential anti-inflammatory effects. THCV's potential to reduce appetite and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels could offer additional benefits for metabolic-associated pain compared to THC.
CBD
Both THCV and CBD exhibit potential anti-inflammatory properties, but THCV also contributes to appetite suppression and regulating blood sugar. Combining these cannabinoids might enhance their anti-inflammatory effects while supporting pain associated with metabolic issues, such as fibromyalgia.
CBG
THCV and CBG both support pain relief, but THCV's unique metabolic benefits set it apart. CBG’s antioxidant properties can complement THCV's anti-inflammatory potential, meaning the two together may provide an enhanced entourage effect.
Last Thoughts
Cannabinoids in cannabis all have unique and complementary pain-relieving properties, interacting with the body in different ways. By understanding the specific benefits of different cannabinoids for pain, including THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV, you can make informed choices about which cannabinoid or combination might be best for managing your pain.
Recent research supports how these cannabinoids help with a wide spectrum of pain relief, whether they’re used individually or together. For individuals interested in the potential of cannabis to mitigate pain, these findings present promising natural solutions for effectively managing pain without the use of traditional over-the-counter or prescription medications.
The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The statements and opinions expressed herein have not been evaluated by any medical authority, including the Food and Drug Administration. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before making any decisions about your health or starting any new treatment or supplement. The content of this blog post should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment.