Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in the cannabis hemp plant. It is the precursor to other popular cannabinoids such as THC and CBD and is known as the “stem cell” of cannabinoids. In recent years, CBG has become an increasingly popular cannabinoid, with research showing its potential to alleviate a variety of ailments. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at CBGa the acidic precursor of CBG, its history, its benefits, and how it can be consumed.

What is CBGa?

CBGa (Cannabigerolic acid) is the acidic form of CBG and is the precursor to other cannabinoids. It is the “parent” of the cannabinoids and is found in the cannabis hemp plant in trace amounts. It is an important part of the cannabinoid synthesis process and is the starting point for the production of other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

CBGa can be converted into other cannabinoids by the action of certain enzymes in the plant. This process is known as the “cannabinoid cascade” and is essential for the production of other cannabinoids.

The history of CBGa is a relatively new one. It was first discovered in 1964 by Israeli scientists Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni. They were the first to isolate and identify the structure of CBG and, in doing so, laid the groundwork for further research into the cannabinoid.

Since then, there have been numerous studies on CBG and its potential therapeutic benefits. In 2011, the first clinical trial on CBG was conducted in Italy. This trial found that CBG had potential benefits in treating glaucoma, inflammation, and pain. In recent years, a 2019 study found that CBG could have potential benefits in treating inflammation and pain associated with arthritis as well. There are several studies to dig through, but most seem promising or call for more research to be done so that we can truly understand this essential cannabinoid and its precursor.

Benefits of CBGa

As stated above both CBG and CBGa has been studied for quite some time to figure out its potential therapeutic benefits, with research indicating that it could be beneficial in treating a variety of conditions and ailments. Here are some of the potential benefits of CBG/CBGa:

  • Pain relief: may have potential pain-relieving properties and could be beneficial in treating chronic pain.
  • Anti-inflammatory: may have anti-inflammatory properties and could be beneficial in treating inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis.
  • Neuroprotective: may have potential neuroprotective properties and could be beneficial in treating conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
  • Antibacterial: may have potential antibacterial properties and could be beneficial in treating bacterial infections as well as being a potential viral blocker for cells.
  • Antidepressant: may have potential antidepressant properties and could be beneficial in treating depression.
  • Anti-cancer: may have potential anti-cancer properties and could be beneficial in treating certain types of cancer.

How CBGa Works

CBGa works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. The ECS is a network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that are responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. CBGa works by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, which are responsible for regulating various processes in the body such as appetite, mood, memory, and pain sensation.

CBGa has been found to have an affinity for the CB2 receptor, which is responsible for regulating inflammation, pain, and other processes in the body. CBG and CBGa being predecessors to other well known cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, puts it in a peculiar position. Since it is harvested earlier in the growth cycle of the cannabis hemp plant before it can change into other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, it contains absolutely no THC when extracted. This would be a key benefit to users who might be hypersensitive to even small traces of THC that is still found in most CBD products.

What are the Different Delivery Methods of CBGa?

CBGa is available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, softgel capsules, edibles, and topicals. Some of these forms are more effective than others, so it’s important to choose the right form for your needs.

Oils, tinctures, and softgel capsules are the most popular form of CBGa as of right now, as they are easy to administer, have precise measurements, and can be absorbed quickly. The market is a little limited on CBGa based products, but it is starting to pick up in popularity as new studies are proving its benefits, and as more farms are gearing towards producing CBGa biomass for manufacturers. Edibles and topicals are also available on the market, but are not as common place at this given time the industry has only just begone really pushing CBGa products out on the market. When shopping for any cannabis product, always be sure to make sure you’re buying from a certified shop, every shop should have posted on their site COAs (Certificate of Analysis) of their products proving they contain what they say they do and are healthy for consumption.

When consuming CBGa, it’s important to start with the recommended dose, and general rule of thumb is you never need to heavily dose. Everyone’s body is different, so try to listen to your body and evaluate how you feel after a week or two of consistently taking CBGa. As always it is critical to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking CBGa or any cannabinoid product, as it may interfere with other medications you could be taking.

A Quick Recap on CBGa

CBGa is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis hemp plants. It is the acidic precursor to other popular cannabinoids such as THC and CBD and is known as the “stem cell” of cannabinoids. There have been numerous studies on the potential benefits of CBGa, with research indicating that it could be beneficial in treating a variety of conditions and ailments, including being antimicrobial!

CBGa is available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, softgel capsules, edibles, and topicals. If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to treat a variety of ailments and conditions, CBGa is definitely something you should be adding to your regiment of daily supplements. With its potential benefits and easy accessibility, CBGa is certainly an option worth exploring.