Often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids”, CBG (cannabigerol) is a precursor to other major cannabinoids like THC and CBD. With increasing interest in the benefits of CBG, studies are recognizing its unique therapeutic properties and potential wellness applications.
Here we explore CBG and how it can benefit consumers’ overall health, including focus, alertness, and digestive health. Let’s understand what CBG is suitable for.
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid extracted from young cannabis plants. During the early flowering stages, cannabigerol is abundant before it is converted into other cannabinoids. CBG is the “stem cell” cannabinoid because it serves as the chemical precursor from which THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are formed through enzymatic processes.
How Does CBG Work in the Body?
Like other cannabinoids, CBG can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Compared to CBD, CBG has a much higher affinity for cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. What CBG does for the body depends on the mode of consumption, as it can affect how it modulates neurotransmitter systems, particularly affecting GABA, dopamine, and serotonin pathways. CBG can also interact with alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, offering potential neuroprotective and mood-regulating effects. Additionally, this cannabinoid influences the vanilloid receptor (TRPV1), which plays a role in pain perception and inflammation.
This multi-target interaction of CBG with the human body offers various physiological benefits.
Key Benefits of CBG
- Promotes Focus and Alertness
The primary benefit of CBG includes enhanced cognitive function and mental clarity without the “high” effects of THC. It can potentially improve concentration and mental energy.
- Supports Mood Balance
CBG can help control serotonin and dopamine production, which helps regulate mood and emotional well-being. It makes this cannabinoid a valuable, psychoactive effects-free natural mood support supplement.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
As mentioned, CBG can interact with the vanilloid receptor (TRPV1), which has anti-inflammatory effects. Potential benefits of CBG include pain relief from inflammation in conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Neuroprotective Potential
Research suggests CBG may help protect brain cells and support neurological health. Healthcare companies are exploring their potential for neurodegenerative conditions and cognitive preservation.
- Appetite Stimulation
Among other CBG benefits, appetite stimulation is a potential therapeutic effect, potentially benefiting individuals with eating disorders. Also, it can benefit cancer patients undergoing therapy by suppressing their appetite.
- Antibacterial Effects
As a cannabinoid, CBG has antibacterial properties, including some of the most resistant bacterial strains such as MRSA. CBG-based products are effective in fighting antibiotic-resistant infections.
- Digestive Health Support
CBG may help support digestive function and gut health. Reducing inflammation in the digestive tract can promote overall gastrointestinal wellness.
Common Uses of CBG
- Daily Wellness Supplement
You can incorporate CBG products into your daily routine as a general wellness supplement to improve overall health.
- Pain and Inflammation Relief
CBG offers a natural alternative to traditional pain medications for the management of chronic pain and inflammatory conditions.
- Stress and Anxiety Management
CBG’s mood-regulating properties provide a natural remedy for managing daily stress and mild anxiety without sedative effects.
- Skin Care Formulations
Topical CBG products are becoming popular as a skin care remedy due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Sleep Improvement Support
CBG has no sedative effects like cannabinoids, but it can help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety before bedtime.
How to Use CBG
- Tinctures/Oils: These products are sublingually used, providing fast absorption and precise dosing control.
- Capsules/Softgels: Pre-measured CBG capsules offer convenient, consistent dosing for daily supplementation routines.
- Edibles: CBG can be infused in edibles for longer-lasting effects through the digestive system processing and liver metabolism.
- Topicals: For localized application and targeted relief without systemic effects, CBG topicals are excellent.
- Vape Products: Recreational users can use CBG with vapes for the fastest onset of effects, typically within minutes of inhalation.
CBG vs. CBD: What's the Difference?
Feature | CBG | CBD |
Source | Young cannabis plants, early harvest | Mature cannabis plants, full flowering |
Focus | Mental clarity, alertness, peaceful sleep | Relaxation, calm, appetite stimulation |
Receptor Action | Direct CB1/CB2 binding | Indirect receptor modulation |
How Is CBG Extracted?
1. CO2 Extraction
Using supercritical CO2 is the cleanest and most efficient method for CBG extraction. This method preserves cannabinoid integrity and purity.
2. Ethanol Extraction
Ethanol-based extraction is more economical than CO2 extraction, offering a cost-effective method for large-scale CBG production.
3. Chromatography
For highly pure CBG extracts, advanced chromatographic techniques allow for precise separation and purification from other cannabinoids and plant compounds.
4. Emerging Technologies
CBG technologies are evolving with innovative extraction methods like hydrocarbon extraction and molecular distillation, which are becoming economically viable for enhanced purity and potency.
Is CBG Safe?
CBG is a well-tolerated and safe cannabinoid for most adults. Due to non-psychoactive effects, there is no risk of intoxication, which is often associated with THC. However, individual responses may vary, and it’s essential to start with low doses and gradually increase as needed. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid CBG due to limited safety data for such users.
Possible Side Effects of CBG
While CBG is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience mild side effects, including:
- Mild Drowsiness: Slight fatigue may be experienced when first starting CBG or with higher doses.
- Dry Mouth: A common side effect for most cannabinoids, CBG use can also temporarily reduce saliva production.
- Digestive Changes: Some users report mild stomach upset, nausea, or changes in appetite, which typically resolve with continued use.
- Headaches: Rare but possible, high doses or using low-quality CBG products can result in headaches.
Conclusion
CBG is a super cannabinoid that offers therapeutic benefits. From promoting mental clarity and focus to managing inflammation and supporting digestive health, CBG products offer remarkable therapeutic benefits. Understanding CBG and how to use it safely and effectively can empower individuals to make informed decisions and incorporate it into their wellness routines. Quality-tested CBG products with third-party reports from licensed dispensaries offer quality and reliability.
