Introducing CBG (Cannabigerol)

After the massive popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) among mainstream consumers, cannabigerol (CBG) presents itself as a worthy alternative, or better yet, supplement to CBD- and THC-based products for medicinal and recreational use.

CBD, THC, and CBG, oh my! CBG (Cannabigerol) is a cannabinoid found in small amounts in most cannabis plants. It’s recently become a hot issue of debate, with researchers hoping that it would deliver similar benefits to CBD. But what is it, how does it differ, and why is it different? Continue reading to learn more about how this chemical, also known as “the stem cell cannabinoid,” operates in the body.

What is CBG And How Is It Made?

Cannabigerol (CBG), often known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” was discovered in 1964 and is a fantastic chemical with a lot of therapeutic promise. It’s one of more than 100 cannabinoids identified in marijuana. Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), its acidic form, is the building block for many other major and minor cannabinoids.

Like other cannabinoids, it influences the human body via a system of chemicals and receptors known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

CBG is comparable to CBD in that it does not cause euphoria. They have anti-inflammatory characteristics and have similar effects on the body.

Ongoing laboratory research employing CBG to treat a wide range of diseases, from bacterial infections to cancer, show that it has enormous therapeutic potential. It activates receptors that have a direct impact on mood, pain management, and appetite.

CBGA is the acidic chemical precursor of three primary compounds:

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA)
Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA)
Cannabichromenic acid (CBCA)

CBGA is broken down by a series of enzymes in the cannabis plant as it matures to create these three primary cannabinoids. The majority of the CBGA has transformed to THCA, CBDA, and CBCA by the conclusion of the harvest. Any CBGA that is left over can be decarboxylated and converted to CBG.

Most of the CBGa has been used up in the synthesis of the primary cannabinoids in cannabis cultivars with extraordinarily high levels of THC and CBD, thus there will be little amounts in the flower. As a result, low-THC cannabis types, such as hemp, are the finest sources of CBG. Scientists and breeders have started producing plants with high CBG levels and harvesting the buds early to extract the CBGa before it breaks down.

In a mature cannabis plant, CBD and its psychoactive counterpart, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are found in high concentrations. CBG, on the other hand, can only be detected in trace amounts (less than 1 percent by dry weight). CBD levels in CBD-rich strains can range from 20% to 25%. THC levels in THC-rich strains can range from 25 to 30%.

CBG-based natural products are not as popular as THC and CBD-based natural products since it is found in extremely low amounts in most cannabis plants. However, as the public’s interest in this unique cannabinoid develops, so does study into its therapeutic potential.

What Benefits And Effects Should I Expect When Taking CBG?

CBG benefits our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the ECS’s moniker “cannabinoid” is no coincidence. It was discovered in 1992 as a result of research into how cannabis’ active chemicals interact with our bodies.

These plant-made cannabinoids, it turns out, relay messages inside the ECS in the same way that endogenous (internal) cannabinoids do. Our immune system, neurological system, and nearly all of the body’s organs are all modulated by the ECS

This explains why THC, CBD, and CBG have such broad effects. CBG is the parent molecule of the two most well-known cannabinoids, THC and CBD, as we’ve already mentioned. CBG’s significance was originally only based on its ability to change into these chemicals; however, researchers have recently focused on CBG’s specific features and interactions with the endocannabinoid system.

Check out some of the most documented benefits below:

Focus-

CBG is frequently associated with a feeling of alertness or focus, according to users. CBG has demonstrated remarkable potential as a neuroprotectant, which could be one explanation for this action. CBG promotes healthy inflammatory function and has even been linked to neurogenesis, or the formation of new brain cells, which could lead to increased focus and attention.

Healthy Appetite-

Marijuana, a cannabis plant high in the hallucinogenic chemical THC, has long been connected with the munchies in popular culture. THC and CBG appear to have the same appetite-stimulating properties. Certain people may benefit from increasing their appetite in order to obtain enough nutrients into their bodies.

When people think of marijuana munchies, they usually think of binge eating junk food. However, in some situations, such as for people who are experiencing a lack of appetite due to a variety of factors, an increase in appetite might be beneficial.

CBG was found to boost hunger in well-satiated rats without creating any hazardous side effects in a rat study.

Healthy Stress Response-

People use hemp-derived CBD oil for a variety of reasons, one of which is to regulate their mental well-being. CBG, rather than its well-known counterpart, CBD, appears to be more useful in supporting a normal stress response.

CBD and CBG both help to prevent the breakdown of GABA, a neurotransmitter. Increased GABA concentrations may have powerful relaxing effects that aid in stress regulation

CBG, on the other hand, supports stress management through a different mechanism. CBG is a strong antagonist of the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor According to studies, CBG slows serotonin absorption, implying that a higher concentration of this neurotransmitter remains active in the brain, supporting mood

Supports Eye Health-

Eye tissues have a high concentration of cannabinoid receptors. The endocannabinoid system, it turns out, may play an important role in preserving eye health.

Ocular hypertension (high eye pressure) can cause inadequate blood flow to the optic nerves, impairing vision. Cannabinoids, particularly CBG, have been shown to help maintain a healthy intraocular eye pressure level in studies.

Normal Inflammatory Response-

While CBD is most known for its role in maintaining a healthy immune response, CBG has been demonstrated to have effects on certain inflammatory pathways in mice.

CBG inhibited the effects of important inflammatory indicators such as IL-1, IL-10, iNOS, and interferon-y, according to a recent study.

The study’s final finding was that CBG aided in the maintenance of a normal inflammatory response.

Supports Healthy Metabolic Process-

CBG’s ability to affect fat accumulation has been supported by a study released in 2019. Adipocyte tissues, in particular, are linked to obesity.

Although this study was conducted using a computer simulation, the favorable results will help to advance this research into animal and human studies on CBG and fat metabolism, which will be required to prove this effect.

Comfort-

One of the most common reasons individuals seek out hemp-based products is to naturally relieve pain.

CBG has been shown to have greater analgesic (pain-relieving) effects than THC and to be a far better GABA reuptake inhibitor than both THC and CBD. While we’ve already discussed GABA’s impact on the stress response, it also acts as a muscle relaxant.

Is CBG Legal?

Yes. CBG, like CBD, is allowed to be purchased, used, and manufactured under federal legislation, which is laid forth in the Agriculture Improvement Act (2018 Farm Bill).

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp-derived cannabinoids are lawful as long as they’re obtained from hemp plants with less than 0.3 percent THC. Hemp plants are classified as marijuana if their THC content exceeds 0.3 percent, making them a restricted substance under Schedule I of the CSA. Synthetic cannabinoids and marijuana derivatives are also controlled substances.

In other words, CBG is only legal if it comes from hemp plants that are legally authorized and have less than 0.3 percent THC. It’s unlawful in the United States if it’s made from marijuana with more than 0.3 percent THC.

Is It Safe to use?

Yes. CBG is a non-toxic substance that can be consumed by humans. There is no evidence that CBG has any dangerous or detrimental impacts on your health, according to study.

However, you should exercise caution if you’re taking certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, blood thinners, or benzodiazepines. Why? Because CBG is very similar to CBD, and because CBD can interfere with the full metabolization of some drugs, causing undesired side effects, CBG could do the same.

Will CBG Get Me High?

When it comes to cannabis, one of the most common concerns is the possibility of becoming high. CBG is non-psychoactive and does not cause euphoria. Indeed, some evidence suggests that CBG might counteract the high effects of THC, making it a useful anti-psychotic agent

THC creates a high in the central nervous system by activating the CB1 endocannabinoid receptor. The active CB1 receptors unleash a cascade of feel-good hormones linked with heavy marijuana usage, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

THC may also interact with serotonin receptors, such as 5HT1A, which we addressed earlier. Serotonin performs a variety of functions in the central nervous system, including regulating mood, heart rate, and blood pressure. CBG works by attaching to the CB1 and 5HT1A receptors to counteract the effects of THC.

THC offers its own set of health benefits in addition to causing a high. Its psychotropic effects, on the other hand, make it an undesirable substance for most individuals, and its legal position in most parts of the world remains a concern. Plant breeders are still looking for ways to add higher CBG concentrations to high THC marijuana strains in order to assist counterbalance the euphoric effects of the drug.

What Is The Difference Between CBG and CBD?

There are numerous distinctions between CBG and CBD. Still, we should begin by recognizing the similarities between these two unusual cannabinoids. CBG, like CBD, is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is at the base of a wide range of modern illnesses, and CBG, like CBD, is a natural solution to this problem that many of us face.

CBG, like CBD, is non-intoxicating, making it excellent for anyone seeking natural advantages without the accompanying “high.” However, there are a few notable distinctions between CBG and CBD products.

When investigating CBG products, you may come across various publications that mention CBG as a treatment for IBS, Crohn’s Disease, and Colitis. Inflammation of the intestines and colon is linked to all of these problems. This is where the biggest difference between CBG and CBD can be found. Unlike CBD, CBG’s advantages are primarily gut-related. CBG supports our bodies on a more profound basis. Simultaneously, it combats a number of disorders that are generally resistant to conventional medications.

While CBD is thought to be beneficial for anxiety, CBG is the molecule that has a far more immediate effect on stress. Many scientists believe that the link between our intestines and our brains has a far greater impact on our mood and well-being than previously imagined. This could explain why CBG affects anxiety in a more dynamic way than CBD.

CBG appears to have a key role in preventing and combating a range of conditions, including some diseases, according to research. While CBG appears to target specific issues, CBD appears to have a greater impact on our bodies’ regulation, helping to maintain homeostasis, reduce inflammation, and boost the effects of other cannabinoids.

CBD-

CBD is extracted directly from the hemp plant, which is a relative of the marijuana species. It does not produce the intoxication “high” that THC does, and it “shows no effects indicative of any misuse or dependence potential,” according to the World Health Organization. To date, there has been no indication of public health issues linked to the use of pure CBD.” CBD has a number of advantages, including:

Non-intoxicating
Reduction of pain and inflammation
Reduction of anxiety
Sleep Benefits
Reduced seizure frequency

While CBD has been the most prominent non-psychoactive cannabinoid in recent years, there are several other chemicals that have been demonstrated to be beneficial to the human body.

CBG-

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid comparable to CBD, but it interacts with your body differently. CBG appears to work as an agonist of the CB1 and CB2 receptors without inducing intoxication, according to preliminary research. CBG has the potential to impede GABA reuptake. This suggests that CBG could be linked to both neuropathic and inflammatory pain. The following are the key advantages of using CBG:

Non-intoxicating
Digestive Benefits
Antibacterial Benefits
Reduction of pain and inflammation

Should I use CBG on its own or with other Cannabinoids?

If you’re familiar with CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids you have likely heard of the “Entourage Effect”. The “Entourage Effect” is a theory that the full spectrum of the cannabis plants works best together. Each Cannabinoid ranging from CBD all the way to Delta 9 THC all have a multitude of benefits and effects by themselves, but when used together have a synergistic effect that make them all work together better.

At the end of the day if your looking for a specific effect and not any other benefits you can use it alone but if you’d like to experience the full range of effects you can combine cannabinoids of your preference.

Energy: Δ8 | CBG | CBC

Clarifty: Δ8 | CBG | Δ10

Rest: Δ8 | CBN | Δ10

Dabs: Urb Delta 8 THC Designer Dabs

These designer dabs are available in an assortment of cannabinoid formulas made with Oleoresin, natural cold preserved strain specific terpenes and flavonoids:

Sugar Wax Δ8 | CBD | CBG | CBC

Lush Diamonds CBDA | CBG | Δ8 | CBC

Space Sauce Δ8 | CBN | CBDA | CBC

What Is CBG? The Mother Cannabinoid