Cracking the Code: How Your Body Absorbs CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC & THCA

If you've ever wondered why some people swear by CBD while others claim it does nothing, you're not alone. The way your body absorbs and processes cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCA isn’t one-size-fits-all. Genetics, metabolism, and even your last meal play a role. But don’t worry—we’re breaking it down in a way that makes sense (and keeps things fun).

Cannabinoid Absorption: Why Some Work Better Than Others

Think of cannabinoids like VIP guests trying to enter an exclusive club (your body). Some get in fast, others take the scenic route, and a few get stuck at the door. This all depends on bioavailability, or how much of a substance actually makes it into your bloodstream. Here’s the rundown:

• Oral Consumption (Capsules, Edibles, Oils): Slow and steady. You’ll absorb about 6-19% of CBD when taken orally. First-pass metabolism in the liver breaks down a big chunk before it hits your bloodstream. (Source)

• Inhalation (Vaping, Smoking): Faster than an espresso shot. Bioavailability jumps to around 31%, meaning more cannabinoids hit your system quickly. (Source)

• Topical Application (Lotions, Balms, High-Potency Creams): Excellent for localized relief. High-potency topicals can penetrate all layers of the skin, providing deep tissue relief and long-term anti-inflammatory benefits. While standard lotions don’t reach the bloodstream, transdermal patches can. (Source)

• Sublingual (Tinctures, Drops): The goldilocks method. Absorbed under the tongue, bypassing digestion for faster and more efficient results. Studies suggest that sublingual absorption can deliver upwards of 75% directly into the bloodstream, making it one of the most effective methods. (Source)

Your Genetics Determine How Well Cannabinoids Work

Here’s where it gets wild. Your CYP450 enzyme system (aka your body’s metabolic bouncer) determines how efficiently you process cannabinoids. If you have a variation in CYP2C19 or CYP3A4, you may metabolize CBD either too quickly (meaning you need more) or too slowly (meaning a little goes a long way). (Source)

For example, some people process THC-related compounds rapidly, making them less effective. The same could happen with non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBG or CBC, depending on your genetics.

Receptors & How Cannabinoids Interact with Your Body

Cannabinoids don’t just float around—they bind to receptors like a lock and key. Here’s a quick cheat sheet on where each one works:

• CBD → Indirectly influences CB1 (brain & nervous system) and CB2 (immune & inflammation) receptors without binding directly. Also interacts with 5-HT1A (serotonin) receptors—hello, stress relief! (Source)

• CBG → Binds to both CB1 & CB2 receptors, but also plays nice with α2-adrenergic receptors, which regulate blood pressure. (Source)

• CBN → Weakly binds to CB1, meaning mild sedative effects without strong psychoactivity. (Source)

• CBC → Works with TRPV1 & TRPA1 receptors (aka pain perception and inflammation control). It’s like the body’s natural ibuprofen—but cooler. (Source)

• THCA → Mostly a raw, unheated cannabinoid, meaning it interacts differently with enzymes instead of binding to CB1 or CB2. Think of it as a pre-game cannabinoid with anti-inflammatory perks. (Source)

Wait… Big Pharma Uses These Receptors Too?!

Absolutely. Some of the same receptors cannabinoids activate are also targeted by pharmaceuticals—often with more side effects.

• CB1 Receptor (Brain & CNS):

  • Medications: Opioids (Oxycodone, Morphine)

  • Side Effects: Addiction, nausea, respiratory depression (Source)

• CB2 Receptor (Immune System & Inflammation):

  • Medications: NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin)

  • Side Effects: Ulcers, kidney damage (Source)

• 5-HT1A (Serotonin Receptor):

  • Medications: SSRIs (Prozac, Lexapro)

  • Side Effects: Mood swings, weight gain, sexual dysfunction (Source)

• TRPV1 (Pain Receptor):

  • Medications: Capsaicin creams, certain painkillers

  • Side Effects: Skin irritation, hypersensitivity (Source)

This is why many people turn to full-spectrum cannabinoid products. By targeting multiple receptors without the side effects of pharmaceuticals, they support pain relief, inflammation control, and stress management naturally.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Cannabinoids Work Smarter, Not Harder

Want to maximize your cannabinoid experience? Here’s your game plan:

✔ Take cannabinoids with food (especially fats) to increase absorption.

✔ Consider genetic testing if you suspect you metabolize cannabinoids differently.

✔ Choose the right method (sublingual > oral for bioavailability, inhalation for speed, topicals for localized effects).

✔ Opt for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum to benefit from the entourage effect.

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop, check out our premium collection of high-potency, full-spectrum products at The Beyond Wellness Store and experience cannabinoids the way your body deserves!