CBG (Cannabigerol) is the next non-psychoactive cannabinoid, rivaling CBD(Cannabidiol) to dominate the low-THC cannabinoids market. It acts as a chemical precursor to other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. CBG doesn’t seem to be like CBD and THC, but consumers often consider its effects to be a mix of these two cannabinoids. However, it may have the potential to treat health conditions like anxiety and antimicrobial resistance.
In this guide, we aim to comprehensively cover CBG, its relation with cannabinoids like CBD and THC, and everything you need to know about it.
What is CBG?
CBD is a cannabinoid found in small quantities in cannabis plants. It is also known as the “ Mother of all cannabinoids” because other cannabinoids like THC and CBD are derived from cannabigerol acid, which is the acidic form of CBG.
The young cannabis plants contain a higher quantity of CBG. In young plants, CBD and THC are present in the acidic form of CBG. As the plant grows, CBG concentration begins to decline as compared to other cannabinoids. This is because most of the CBG is converted into other cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
Extraction of CBG
As we’ve already mentioned, CBG is the source of all cannabinoids, but most cannabis plants contain only one percent of CBG. Most of the CBG has already been converted into other cannabinoids. It means manufacturers have to harvest Cannabigerol from young hemp plants.
Recently, some botanists have shown interest in introducing a strain of hemp that produces a higher amount of CBG. However, there is still a lot of work to be done on this front. In short, CBG is expensive, and it can be challenging to extract in meaningful amounts as compared to other cannabinoids.
How Does CBG work in the body?
CBG works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. ECS contains two primary receptors, CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are present in the brain and nervous system, while CB2 receptors are widespread in the immune system. Cannabigerol interacts with both receptors to regulate functions like appetite, pain, and inflammation.
CBG also binds to alpha-2 adrenoceptors and 5-HT 1A. This interaction can have effects on different functions such as pain perception and blood pressure regulation.
Potential Benefits of CBG
Here are some of the researched effects and potential benefits of CBG.
Reduce Pain And Inflammation
It has been studied that Cannabigerol may interact with specific receptors associated with pain and inflammation. This cannabinoid may have the potential to treat conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Neurological Health Benefits
CBG may have the potential to protect nerve cells from damage. Research indicates that Cannabigerol may be beneficial for people with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Increased Energy And Focus
It can be a natural way to increase energy and focus. Cannabigerol consumption may produce a feeling of alertness and mental clarity.
Antibacterial Properties
A study suggests that Cannabigerol may also help with bacterial infections. CBG may work against methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which is a drug-resistant bacteria that contributes to staph infections.
Effective in Treating Glaucoma
Research shows that people with high eye pressure are at high risk of developing glaucoma. As a cannabinoid, CBG has neuroprotective properties and it may lower the amount of this pressure to support the treatment of glaucoma.
Remedy For Anxiety And Depression
Preliminary studies suggest that CBG may help regulate serotonin and dopamine systems in the body. It provides a natural alternative to traditional treatments for anxiety and depression.
Types of CBG Products
The commonly available types of CBG products include:
CBG Oil
CBG oil is extracted from young cannabis plants. Its consumption method is simple: a few drops of CBG oil are placed under the tongue and held for 1 to 2 minutes.
CBG Flower
CBG flowers are rich in Cannabigerol, but they have low concentrations of other cannabinoids. They can be smoked, brewed into tea, or infused into edibles.
CBG Liquid
CBG tinctures are created by soaking CBG flowers in a carrier liquid. This helps extract the active cannabinoids. The resulting liquid can be taken sublingually or added to food and drinks.
Cannabigerol Vape
CBG vape offers a quick onset and the highest bioavailability. It may be a good option for those who prefer fast relief.
CBG Gummies
Cannabigerol gummies are often preferred due to their flavorful experience. Gummies take longer to show their effects because cannabinoids pass through the digestive system before they’re absorbed in the blood.
CBG Dosage Guidelines
There are no specific instructions regarding the CBG dosage because it depends on several factors. However, a good rule of thumb is to start with a low dose of 5-15mg (1mg per 10Ibs of body weight) a day. If you find this amount tolerable, you may increase the dose up to 100 mg a day depending on factors like age, body weight, and your cannabis experience.
So, the ideal way is to start slow and gradually increase your CBG dose over time. This helps your body to get used to the Cannabigerol compound and avoid unwanted effects. Users are also advised to always check for the percentage of CBG in the product. If the percentage of the compound is not listed, you can also check lab results on the website.
Side Effects of CBG
Users often find CBG beneficial with mild to moderate side effects. The reported downsides of Cannabigerol include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Changes in Appetite
- Dizziness
How CBG Differs from CBD and THC?
Here’s a table that explains how CBG differs from CBD and THC.
Features | CBG | CBD | THC |
Psychoactive Effects | Non-psychoactive | Non-psychoactive | Psychoactive |
Binding Affinity to Receptors | Cannabigerol weakly binds to endocannabinoid receptors i.e. CB1 and CB2 receptors | CBD indirectly binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors | THC strongly interacts with CB1 receptors |
Primary Role | It is a precursor cannabinoid that supports the creation of other cannabinoids like CBD and THC | CBD promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety and inflammation | THC creates a euphoric high |
Abundance in Plants | It is found in smaller quantities but its amount is higher in young cannabis plants | CBD is found in higher concentrations in hemp plants | THC is found in higher concentrations in marijuana plants |
Therapeutic Benefits | Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties | CBD can be beneficial in reducing stress, inflammation, and pain | THC assists with pain relief, appetite stimulation, and nausea |
Legal Status of CBG
CBG is legal in the United States as long as it follows the guidelines of the 2018 Farm Bill. This Bill legalized hemp-derived products which contain no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. This is because such a small amount of THC is not sufficient to produce intoxicating effects in most consumers.
These regulations also legalized the cultivation, processing, and sale of hemp products as long as they meet the THC threshold.
Where can I buy CBG Products?
There are two main places where you can buy CBG products: Local stores and online shops. You can find these products in stores located in your area. The store options include wellness shops, convenience stores, and gas stations.
The legal status of Cannabigerol compound has made it easier for retailers to offer these products online, Online stores offer a variety of CBG products along with necessary guidelines for the convenience of users. XLR8, one of the leading hemp products brands, offers multiple forms of CBD online which include CBG edibles, tinctures, flowers, and more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CBG is a cannabinoid known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” due to its role in forming other compounds like CBD and THC. It offers potential health benefits without causing a high. Cannabigerol’s extraction is costly and challenging, but its therapeutic potential makes it an appealing option for those seeking natural remedies. As research and cultivation improve, Cannabigerol products may become even more accessible and beneficial for various health needs.
You can also read our guides on THCA and CBD to know more about the Cannabinoids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CBG safe?
Yes, it is safe to consume CBG products because this compound offers multiple therapeutic benefits without intoxicating effects. Cannabigerol may also have certain side effects, but they’re generally mild or tolerable. (1)
Does CBG show up on a drug test?
No, CBG doesn’t show up on a drug test by itself because it does not produce psychoactive effects. However, products like Cannabigerol-rich flowers contain THC, which may cause you to fail a drug test.
Is CBG stronger than CBD?
When comparing the strengths, CBG tends to be stronger in supporting physical pain. This is because Cannabigerol interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors compared to CBD’s binding affinity with these receptors. However, CBD compound can be more effective for sleep compared to CBG. So, both cannabinoids work best in their respective areas.
Does CBG get you high?
No, CBG won’t get you high. It is a non-psychoactive compound that doesn’t produce a high like THC does. In fact, Cannabigerol may produce energizing mental effects.
