The Benefits of an Emerging Cannabinoid
The Surprising Truth About CBG
By now, most people are familiar with cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but we’re only beginning to understand the beneficial potential of cannabigerol (CBG) – which is surprising because…
The truth is, CBG came first. It is the chemical parent of both CBD and THC.
Discovered in Israel in 1964 by marijuana researchers Yehiel Gaoni and Raphael Mechoulam, CBG has no psychoactive effects and is showing great promise in treating a wide variety of conditions.
CBG: The “Stem Cell” of Cannabinoids
While cannabis plant grows, it produces cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) which is the first cannabinoid that forms within the plant.
As the precursor to three major cannabinoids, cannabigerolic acid has the remarkable ability to transform into either tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), or cannabichromenic acid (CBCA).
Through activation by light and heat, these compounds are transformed from their acid state into THC, CBD, and CBC. The conversion takes between 6-8 weeks during the plant’s flowering cycle.
Because of its transformative nature, CBG is frequently referred to as the “stem cell” of cannabinoids and is driving exciting new research and applications.
But How Does CBG Actually Work in Our Bodies?
CBG works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS functions to support homeostasis (self-regulating processes that help our biological systems remain stable and functioning).
There are three key components the ECS:
- Cannabinoid receptors – CBG interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors
- Endocannabinoids – CBG is believed to boost anandamide, an important endocannabinoid
- Metabolic Enzymes – CBG is thought to interrupt the metabolic activity that produces the psychoactive effects of THC
CBG Interacts with Our Cannabinoid Receptors
There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors; CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors are located in the immune system and other areas of the body.
Though it interacts with both receptors, CBG primarily bonds with CB2.
Together, CB1 and CB2 receptors regulate neurohormones which actively affect physiological processes including mood, pain response, and appetite. When cannabinoids like CBG interact with these receptors, it activates a response and produces physiological changes.
The interaction of CBG with different receptors in the body is showing promise treating a wide range of conditions.
These interactions are so interesting because…
CBG Has Been Shown to Have Naturally Strong Healing Properties
Research has already shown that CBG has some remarkable healing properties. For instance —
CBG is Anti-Inflammatory
Studies suggest that CBG has strong anti-inflammatory properties, making it an exciting potential option for formulating topical treatments for arthritis, and muscle and joint pain, as well as treatments to address gut inflammation on a cellular level.
CBG is Antibacterial and Antifungal
Like all major cannabinoids, CBG exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties.
CBG is Antioxidative
CBG has been shown to aid in preventing or delaying some types of cell damage. Its antioxidant properties reduce damage-causing free radicals and raise one of the body’s own naturally occurring antioxidants, superoxide dismutase.
CBG is Neuroprotective
A 2015 study examining CBG found that it was “extremely active as a neuroprotectant” – meaning it has properties that help protect and heal our nervous system. The research pointed to CBG as a potential treatment for diseases like Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.
Related Reading: Best CBD Oil for Alzheimer’s Disease
CBG is an Appetite Stimulant
CBG has been observed to be an effective appetite stimulant and interacts with several molecular targets that are known to be involved in the regulation of appetite.
But here’s the most exciting part…
CBG May Ultimately Emerge as the Most Diverse Therapeutic Cannabinoid
Rapidly evolving research is already indicating that CBG may emerge as one of the most therapeutically diverse cannabinoids.
Research Indicates CBG May be Highly Effective For Treating These Conditions
While research continues to reveal new potential uses for CBG almost daily, early studies have indicated that it may be effective as a treatment for some of the most common conditions including —
Depression
CBG is believed to boost anandamide, the endocannabinoid responsible for increasing dopamine levels and regulating appetite and sleep. Sometimes referred to as the “bliss molecule,” evidence has shown that increased levels of anandamide can lead to improved mood. Balanced anandamide levels stimulate feelings of happiness and well-being, while low levels are associated with a wide range of conditions including depression and schizophrenia.
Anxiety
Evidence shows that CBG may inhibit the brain’s uptake of gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA). Blocking the brain’s absorption of this amino acid leads to increased extracellular concentrations of GABA which is beneficial in treating anxiety, insomnia, muscle tremors, and certain types of chronic pain.
Osteoporosis
CBG and other cannabinoids have been shown to be effective in promoting bone growth, healing fractures, and strengthening connective tissues. It is currently being considered as a treatment for osteoporosis.
Glaucoma
Other cannabinoids have also been used to treat glaucoma, but CBG has proven to be a particularly useful treatment for glaucoma that reduces intraocular pressure.
Colon Cancer
Research indicates that CBG inhibits tumor growth. A 2014 study found that CBG slows the progression of colon cancer by selectively blocking the growth of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
MRSA is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) that has become resistant to many common antibiotics, making it particularly challenging to treat. Due to strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, CBG has shown remarkable promise as a treatment.
Overactive Bladder
Research conducted in 2015 found that among the major cannabinoids CBG was the most effective at reducing bladder contractions and alleviating the symptoms of overactive bladder.
Psoriasis and Eczema
Clinical trials of CBG topical formulations are already underway. Due to its inflammatory properties, CBG has been shown to be an effective treatment for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions.
Overall Pain
CBG among other cannabinoids has been shown as effective in reducing overall pain from a wide range of conditions including multiple sclerosis and cancer. It has been shown to be even more effective as a pain reliever than THC.
An Important Note: Cannabinoids Work Better Together
The effects of CBG are further enhanced when used with other cannabinoids and terpenes – this is known as the entourage effect.
The idea behind the entourage effect is that the compounds in cannabis work synergistically. For example, largely non-psychoactive compounds – like terpenes — can modulate the plant’s psychoactive effects, and boost therapeutic benefits.
So, how do we get all those beneficial compounds out of the humble cannabis plant?
Production and Extraction Methods
Production
Most strains of cannabis contain only trace amounts (less than 1%) of CBG; however specific hemp strains are being cultivated to produce higher concentrations of this critical cannabinoid intentionally.
According to Medical Genomics, producers like OregonCBD who have primarily focused on producing high-quality strains of CBD, are now turning their attention to cultivating CBG-rich plants.
Plant breeders are experimenting with cross-breeding and genetic manipulation to produce higher concentrations of CBG.
And since industrial hemp produces CBG, and CBG can become THC, CBD or CBC, in the future, the mass production of the major cannabinoids may primarily rely on cultivating hemp.
Short Video: How Cannabinoids (Like CBG and CBD) Interact With Your Body’s Endocannabinoid System
Extraction
There are two main methods of extracting CBG from hemp: CO2 extraction and ethanol extraction.
CO2 Extraction
The CO2 method is the most used and involves extracting and distilling oil from the plant material to separate it from the non-active elements. The CBG oil that is produced from this method can be used in different ways – for instance ingesting or vaping. CO2 is often favored because it does not leave behind residue and ensures that the final product is pure. It is a method that has been deemed safe and has been standardized for herbal supplements and foods.
Ethanol Extraction
Some producers prefer ethanol as an extraction method; however, it is more expensive and time consuming. It involves soaking hemp flowers in alcohol, agitating, then filtering separate cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Next, the mixture is heated to cook off the alcohol. The CBG oil that is produced from this method contains the healing qualities of the entire plant.
A Promising New Method of Extraction
A newly-patented method of CBG extraction presented by Phytoplant Research S.L. is promising to help producers scale production using inexpensive equipment. The company is positioned to revolutionize traditional CBG extraction methods with a groundbreaking new technique.
According to the company’s Director, Dr. Xavier Nadal, “The new patented method is the first ever that purifies CBG without the use of chromatographic techniques. It permits scaling up the production of pure CBG using non-expensive equipment… The result is a more efficient purification process that is cost-effective and environmentally friendly.”
The new extraction method is the result of a 4-year effort to improve the productivity of their CBG plant varieties and find new, efficient purification methods. Their efforts have also resulted in the success of the company developing the most productive CBG-rich cannabis plants in the world.
The Future of CBG
We are witnessing an exciting time in cannabinoid research. Without question, the unique transformative properties of CBG will continue to place it at the forefront of cannabinoid research for years to come.
Worldwide studies continue to reveal data leading to new ideas for potential uses, which will continue to fuel innovation in production and extraction methods, and the development of new products.
And in the US, the recent passage of the Farm Bill legalizing the production of hemp and hemp-derived compounds, the market for cannabinoids like CBD and CBG is expected to grow exponentially.
In 2018, the market for CBD alone topped $600 billion, making it an attractive option for many of the country’s commercial crop farmers. The enthusiasm for cultivating and producing cannabinoid products shows no sign of slowing.
And here’s more good news…
CBG is Just One of the Many Beneficial Cannabinoids Found in Cannabis.
CBG is only one of more than 100 cannabinoids present in cannabis.
The top five most beneficial cannabinoids are:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Cannabinol (CBN)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
Of course, the most popular non-psychoactive cannabinoid is currently CBD which is now available in a wide variety of therapeutic forms like – oils, creams, drinks, edibles, bath salts, and many other things.
So, if you’re interested in trying CBD, you have a lot of options.
Ready to Experience the Benefits of Cannabinoids?
Try CBD Oil
While research continues on CBG, many CBD products on the market will let you experience the benefits of cannabinoids.
Check out some of our favorite CBD products —
The Best CBD Oil for Sleep
The Best CBD Oil for Anxiety
The Best CBD Oil for Pain
The Best CBD Oil for Tremors
Resources
https://apothecarium.com/blog/nevada/2018/7/24/cannabinoids-101-cbg
https://www.alpha-cat.org/cbg-and-cbd-a-balance-that-means-you-well/
https://lightshade.com/what-is-in-cannabis/
https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/easing-anxiety-with-anandamide/3001375.article
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GABA_reuptake_inhibitor
https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-research-finds-how-cannabis-supports-bone-health-n404
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18681481
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25252936
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26197538
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27503475
https://www.weednews.co/cannabinoids-and-therapeutic-effects-cbg-cannabigerol/
https://archive.attn.com/stories/2522/marijuana-does-to-your-bladder
http://cannabisdailyrecord.com/index.php/2017/06/08/wire-company-develops-new-way-to-extract-cbg-from-cannabis/
FAQs
What are the health benefits of CBG? ›
CBG works to fight inflammation, pain, nausea and works to slow the proliferation of cancer cells. Research has shown it also significantly reduces intraocular eye pressure caused by glaucoma. Strains high in CBG will be beneficial treating conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, and cancer.
Does CBG make you feel anything? ›CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn't produce a high and is somewhat unique among cannabinoids, making users feel energized and focused instead of relaxed like THC or CBD typically do. This makes CBG popular among people searching for a cannabinoid to boost productivity — like those in school or business.
Does CBG make you feel good? ›CBG works by binding with your cannabinoid receptors (CB1, located in your nervous system and brain, and and CB2, located in your skin and immune system) to help regulate your appetite and sleep, alleviate pain, and make you feel better all around.
How long does it take CBG to work? ›Product you're taking: A CBG oil taken sublingually will get to work quite quickly (15 minutes) and last for a shorter amount of time (2-3 hours), while CBG gummies will take a longer time to kick in (45 minutes) and have longer lasting effects (up to 7 hours).
Does CBG give you energy? ›CBG is known for its energy-boosting effects that are often compared to a caffeine rush. However, it should be noted that CBG does not have any stimulating properties like THC. Several users enjoy the boost in energy, concentration, and creativity that CBG provides.
What are the side effects of CBG? ›Forty-four percent of CBG-predominant cannabis users reported no adverse events, with 16.5% noting dry mouth, 15% sleepiness, 11.8% increased appetite, and 8.7% dry eyes.
How long does CBG high last? ›Everyone's body is different; CBG affects individuals in different ways. BMI and metabolism also play a huge part in how long CBG stays in your system. With all factors in mind, and generally speaking – you can expect the effects of CBG to last from 2 to 6 hours.
Will CBG make you sleepy? ›A few cbg side effects that you may notice are dry mouth, drowsiness, and increased appetite to name a few. Make sure to read the manufacturing label for the recommended dose before consuming CBG.
Can you take CBG daily? ›You should start low and increase the dose gradually, even if you have taken CBD oil in the past. This is a new cannabinoid and may affect you differently. In general, aim for minimal doses a few times a day when starting. The average daily amount is around 20-50 mg of CBG.
Is CBG stronger than CBD? ›CBD may be better suited for reducing inflammation because it has less psychoactivity than CBG. It's also more potent than CBG, which means you can use less of it to achieve the same effect. Not only are their therapeutic properties different, but so are their side effects.
Is CBG good for depression? ›
A survey on 127 CBG-predominant cannabis patients, shows very positive results in fighting depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia, with benign side effects and negligible withdrawal symptoms. Cannabigerol (CBG) and its precursor cannabigerolic acid are sometimes called the ''mother of all cannabinoids.
Is CBG addictive? ›Russo explains that early studies have highlighted CBG's strong anti-anxiety effects, without being sedative and without the potential for addiction.
When should I take CBG? ›There is no wrong time of day to take CBG products. However, some people may find that it helps them to take it in the morning, while others may find that it helps them to take it at night. If you're unsure of when to take CBG products, talk to your doctor for guidance.
What is better for anxiety CBD or CBG? ›CBD is a more popular choice for sleep because it doesn't interact with the CB receptors in the brain like CBG does. This means that CBD won't make you feel groggy or tired like some other cannabinoids can. CBG, on the other hand, is known for its ability to reduce anxiety and stress.
Is CBG like CBD? ›CBG behaves as an antagonist at that receptor, where CBD has strong anti-nausea effects, which means it acts like an agonist. So even though the two cannabinoids are similar, when bound to the same place, they have opposing effects on this specific receptor. CBG and CBD differ in how they stimulate the appetite.
Does CBG help you focus? ›CBG helps to support healthy inflammatory function and has even been shown to possibly support neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells—possibly leading to greater capacity for focus and attention.
Does CBG help with back pain? ›Several investigations have shown that phytocannabinoid mixtures, including CBG, are incredibly effective at reducing the signals of pain and inflammation from the body to the brain (15). It can do this by reducing the concentration of hormone-like lipids which are in charge of the inflammatory response and pain (16).
Is CBG an Indica or Sativa? ›Beyond its central role as the genesis of all other cannabinoids produced by cannabis, CBG has been shown to dominate an entire slice of the cannabis sativa genome.
How do you consume CBG? ›CBG Oil: When starting out with a new cannabinoid product, consuming it via oil is one of the easiest ways to control dosage. Simply put a few drops under your tongue, then hold it for 30-60 seconds so that the cannabinoid receptors located in this part of your mouth can more efficiently absorb it.
Is CBG good for headaches? ›Migraines: CBG appears to act as a vasodilator with strong neuroprotective characteristics which might make it an interesting choice for migraine prevention or treatment because the severe and often debilitating headaches occur because of vascular dilation.
How potent is CBG? ›
Yes, like some other cannabinoids, CBG is completely legal, provided that it is derived from a cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. THC has psychoactive effects and is the most important factor in legality because it contains psychoactive properties that are potent above 0.3%.
Does CBG help memory? ›Conclusions: CBG was ineffective in disrupting long-term fear memories, various conditioned fear memory processes, or stress-induced anxiety-related behavior in mice. These preclinical data suggest CBG may have limited scope in the treatment of PTSD and stress-related anxiety.
Does CBG increase serotonin? ›CBG increases serotonin secretion
CBG, like other cannabinoids, acts on the body's internal cannabinoid system through cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). Studies show that CBG increases serotonin, the so-called well-being hormone secretion, which has a mood-boosting effect.
In conclusion, CBG was ineffective in disrupting var- ious conditioned fear memory processes and stress- induced anxiety-related behavior in mice. These data suggest CBG has limited scope in the treatment of PTSD and stress-related anxiety.
Does CBG show in drug test? ›CBG should not trigger a positive result on a drug test, but we still do not recommend taking CBG products before your screening. Drug tests typically do not screen for CBG specifically, looking instead for THC. Still, CBG and THC could look similar on a chemical level, depending on the kind of drug test you take.
Is CBG good for ADHD? ›Conclusions: This nano-processed CBG/CBD product improved ADHD, chronic fatigue, and IBS symptoms and relieved pain, such that over half of individuals were able to decrease or stop their pain medication.
Which is better CBD or CBG? ›Cannabinoids have comparable uses in the treatment of health problems since they both reduce pain sensations in the brain. Although CBG is more effective than CBD for treating migraines and reducing muscular soreness, CBD may be preferable for reducing inflammation because it has less psychoactivity than CBG.
How often should you take CBG? ›This is a new cannabinoid and may affect you differently. In general, aim for minimal doses a few times a day when starting. The average daily amount is around 20-50 mg of CBG.
Which is better for pain CBG or CBN? ›CBN is best for pain, inflammation, and neuroprotection, while CBG is best for anxiety and stress. CBG is possibly better than CBN for sleep since CBN's sleep benefits are overstated and not verified through modern science. However, recent research suggests CBN might be an effective appetite stimulator.
Does CBG lower blood pressure? ›Acute CBG Lowers Blood Pressure, but Does Not Alter Heart Rate or Locomotor Activity.
Will CBG make me sleepy? ›
Side Effect #1: Tiredness
So, some may feel that tiredness is a welcome side effect when consuming a cannabinoid. But, extremely high doses of CBG can produce feelings of fatigue and grogginess, and this is due to the unique properties of the compound.
CBG for sleep: Research points to cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG as effective sleep aids. However, these compounds are even more effective when used together. This concept is known as the Entourage Effect.
Is CBG good for nerve pain? ›Along with helping to alleviate cancer and bowel disorders, CBG is particularly useful in combatting pain. By working on the brain and the body, CBG can dampen the amount of pain you feel, but this is not without some downsides. Along with low bioavailability, CBG is expensive to produce.
What time of day should I take CBG? ›There is no wrong time of day to take CBG products. However, some people may find that it helps them to take it in the morning, while others may find that it helps them to take it at night. If you're unsure of when to take CBG products, talk to your doctor for guidance.
How long does CBG last in your system? ›Everyone's body is different; CBG affects individuals in different ways. BMI and metabolism also play a huge part in how long CBG stays in your system. With all factors in mind, and generally speaking – you can expect the effects of CBG to last from 2 to 6 hours.
How much CBG can you take per day? ›Dosage of CBG liquids when vaping
The recommended daily dose is about 1 ml - the optimal effect is achieved by spreading the doses throughout the day and in the evening before bed.
CBG should not trigger a positive result on a drug test, but we still do not recommend taking CBG products before your screening. Drug tests typically do not screen for CBG specifically, looking instead for THC. Still, CBG and THC could look similar on a chemical level, depending on the kind of drug test you take.
Is CBG sedative? ›Russo explains that early studies have highlighted CBG's strong anti-anxiety effects, without being sedative and without the potential for addiction. The final bonus is that CBG appears to have very few negative side effects, except increasing appetite.
Can you take CBD and CBG together? ›CBD and CBG are two similar yet unique cannabinoids. While hemp plants contain a much higher dose of CBD, CBG can also be extracted and used in all sorts of products. These two cannabinoids offer a variety of therapeutic benefits, and when combined, can provide highly effective relief that keeps you feeling your best.
Can CBG interact with medications? ›In fact, like CBD, CBG might be problematic when combined with pharmaceutical drugs. “From the potency of CBG at this adrenergic receptor, ingestion may unpredictably change blood pressure, induce sedation, and interact with other cardiovascular medications,” Vrana wrote.
Is CBGA controlled substance? ›
Are CBG and CBN Legal? Neither CBG nor CBN is listed as a controlled substance under the CSA or the United Nations Single Convention. Like CBD, however, if CBG or CBN are derived from marijuana, they fall within Schedule I of the CSA.
What is CBG for blood sugar? ›Blood glucose level (BGL) or blood sugar level (BSL) monitoring undertaken in the home/community are often referred to as capillary blood glucose (CBG) tests, while blood glucose tests carried out at clinical facilities may include CBG, and (plasma glucose) venous blood tests.[1][2]