‍Cannabigerol (CBG) is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp that has been gaining some traction due to its potential therapeutic benefits and increased usage in products on the market. In this article, we will briefly explore what CBG is, its potential benefits, its difference with other cannabinoids, and basics around buying and usage.

What is Cannabigerol (CBG) and its Potential Benefits?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants. It is commonly referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids” because it is the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. CBG is produced in the early stages of the cannabis plant’s life cycle and is converted into other cannabinoids as the plant matures. CBG binds to the endocannabinoid system (ECS) much like other cannabinoids.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors and molecules that regulate various physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, mood, and energy. The ECS is made up of two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. These receptors are found throughout the body and interact with cannabinoids like CBG.

CBG works differently than other cannabinoids because it binds directly to both cannabinoid receptors (CB1 & CB2) in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), where typically most cannabinoids bind more directly to just one or better known as an affinity. This allows for the possibility of more cannabinoids to maximize their benefits when paired with CBG. More studies are needed to confirm exact strengths, but you’ll find that more products on the market today are pairing higher milligram amounts of CBG with other cannabinoids.

CBG has similar potential therapeutic benefits to CBD and other cannabinoids, including: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, cancer fighting, and anti-anxiety effects, as well as being studied for its possible effects on various neurological conditions.

Some very compelling studies have shown how CBG and its acidic precursor CBGa could prove useful in blocking infection of cells by viruses and variants, as well as bacterial infections. When CBGa is paired with CBDa it was found to be most effective. There have been other studies as well performed on mice with Parkinson’s Disease showing promise as a neuroprotector from further lesions occurring. This could prove useful for also diseases such as Alzheimer’s as it would be preventing the decay, damage, and death of neurons in the brain. More studies are needed to confirm all of these amazing health benefits and if CBG along with other cannabinoids are reliable enough and effective to be used as legitimate treatments. In the meantime, CBG is mostly viewed as a great complimentary cannabinoid to be paired with others to amplify their effects.

The Difference Between Cannabigerol (CBG) and Other Cannabinoids

CBG is different from other cannabinoids like THC and CBD in a few key ways. THC has a binding affinity with the CB1 receptor and CBD has a low binding affinity with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Due to this it is believed that CBG can act as a supportive cannabinoid since it can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, effectively amplifying other cannabinoids and their effects on these receptors.

CBG is also non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC. This makes it a good option for those who want the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects and makes a great pair with CBD.

Finally, CBG is present in much lower concentrations than THC and CBD. This means it is much harder to find products that are high in CBG. Plants must be harvested at a younger age than is ideal for most farms, and due to this it is usually specifically extracted for using a process of superfluid liquid solvents typically ethanol or safer alternatives to get the concentration of CBG desired. Hemp-derived CBG is often the preferred option due to the fact that hemp plants contain higher concentrations of CBG than cannabis plants. CBG is legal and available in all 50 States, as long as the product does not contain a THC count higher than 0.3%.

Dosage and Safety of Cannabigerol (CBG)

There is currently not enough research available to determine the optimal dosage of CBG. Generally speaking, it is best to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It is also important to consult with a doctor before taking any new supplement or product as it is possible to have negative effects on current medications or medical conditions. In general, CBG is considered to be safe, and can make a great addition to your daily supplements and diet.

CBG is available in a variety of forms, including tinctures, oils, edibles, topicals, softgel capsules, and more. It is important to note that CBG is present in much lower concentrations than THC and CBD, so it is important to look for products that are specifically formulated with a high concentration of CBG, and to price compare around the market to be sure you are getting a good price.

Also, you should always be looking for safe and verified sellers. All cannabis products are required to go through vigorous testing to ensure they contain the compounds they claim and ensure they don’t contain any negative unwanted metals or other contaminants. All shops, and online stores should be able to provide these tests results, they are called Certificates of Analysis (COA). Most reliable online shops will have a page displaying this information.

A Concise Wrap-up of CBG

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp that has gained some attention due to its potential therapeutic benefits. CBG works differently than most other cannabinoids because binds to both cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

CBG has many potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety effects. It is also being studied for its potential to treat neurological disorders. CBG is available in a variety of forms, including tinctures, oils, edibles, topicals, softgel capsules, and more.

It is important to speak with a doctor before taking CBG to make sure it is right for you. If you think you could benefit from the potential therapeutic benefits of CBG, talk to your doctor about whether it is an option for you, and be on the lookout for new studies!