The cannabis plant contains many cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that have different effects on the human body.
Two things our readers and customers ask us often are, “what is the difference between CBG and CBD?” and “does CBG get you high?” – mostly because our full spectrum CBD vapes are 10% CBG (!).
Here, we’ll answer these questions – and more. We’ll explain what CBG is, how it compares to CBD, the potential health benefits, and where to purchase products that contain this infamous cannabinoid.
Note: This content has been verified with extensive research using highly accredited medical sites, scientific studies, certified medical marijuana physicians, and respected health journals.
What Is CBG?
CBD and THC have each taken center stage for quite some time. You can read more about those cannabinoids here.
But there’s a new kid in town that deserves some recognition (though, not new, just lesser-known). CBG is gaining some attention due to a growing body of evidence showing its potential value for various health applications. We’ll get to those later! So what exactly is CBG?
Let’s get the technical jargon out of the way.
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a cannabinoid that is naturally present in the cannabis plant.
CBGA, which is the acidic form of CBG, converts into one of three major cannabinoid precursors as the plant ages. These are: cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). The CBGA that doesn’t get converted into one of the above or any other secondary cannabinoids will form CBG through decarboxylation. This chemical reaction removes one carbon atom from the acid molecule and activates the compounds in cannabis.
CBG: The Science Behind It
CBG is produced in the cannabis plant as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) which acts as a precursor to the formation of other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. CBG is found in low concentrations in mature cannabis plants, typically less than 1%, but through specialized breeding and extraction techniques, CBG can be isolated and extracted in higher concentrations.
CBG acts on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, and sleep. CBG binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which leads to its medicinal effects on the body.
Is CBG Legal?
CBG, also known as cannabigerol, is a compound found in the hemp plant that has gained attention for its potential health benefits. Similar to CBD, CBG is considered legal in the USA thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill which legalized the cultivation and sale of hemp and its derivatives, including CBG, on a federal level as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. This bill defined hemp as any cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
However, just as with CBD, the legality of CBG can vary by state and it’s important to understand the specific laws and regulations in your area before using or selling CBG products. While some states may have more permissive laws regarding hemp-derived compounds, others may have more restrictive laws. It’s important to stay informed about the changing laws and regulations surrounding CBG and other hemp-derived compounds in the USA.
What is the difference between CBD and CBG?
These two cannabinoids are often compared because they both affect your endocannabinoid system in a non-psychoactive way. They both are even touted as great aids in reducing the adverse effects of THC.
But what makes them different from each other?
Scientifically, their molecular structures are entirely different. The molecules have different shapes altogether and therefore bind to your body’s cannabinoid receptors in different ways. CBD prefers to activate the 5-HT1A receptor in the body, while CBG acts as an antagonist and blocks the same receptor. This difference makes their effects on the body distinctive as well.
CBG is also found in much less of a quantity in cannabis. The plant generally contains less than 1%, while CBD can make up 25%. So while the benefits of CBG tend to be very promising, the inclusion of it as an ingredient can make for an expensive product. (The good news is, TribeTokes CBD vape oils are full-spectrum – which means they actually contain 10% CBG as well as a host of other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes!)
Together, the two cannabinoids make a great team and combine forces to create a potent anti-inflammatory. We know the potential benefits of CBD alone, like pain relief and help with insomnia, but what else can CBG do for you? Read on.
The Potential Benefits Of CBG
So what does cbg do? CBG has a wide range of medicinal properties that make it a promising alternative to traditional medicine. Some of the potential benefits of CBG include:
- Pain Reduction: Much like CBD, CBG is touted to help with inflammation and decrease pain.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: In studies of mice, CBG reduced inflammation and the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the intestines. ROS are considered unstable molecules that can cause damage to your DNA and kill cells.
- Glaucoma: Researchers studying cats have found that eye pressure decreased with CBG administration.
- Appetite Stimulation: preclinical studies have shown CBG to increase appetite in rats, which can be significant as a future treatment option for diseases and syndromes that may benefit from increased hunger.
- Huntington’s Disease: In a 2015 study, CBG was administered to mice with a form of Huntington’s Disease – which is a condition that breaks down nerve cells in the brain. CBG acted as a neuroprotectant.
- Anxiety: Not only does CBG mitigate some of the THC side effects, but much like CBD, it has a calming effect.
- Antibacterial Needs: A more recent study in 2020 showed that CBG has antibacterial properties, allowing it to fight against drug-resistant bacteria that cause staph infections.
- Bladder Dysfunctions: A 2015 study showed CBG to be the top cannabinoid contender when fighting bladder issues by positively affecting the bladder’s contractions.
- Skincare: CBG is rich in antioxidants, which can fight free radicals and help reduce the look of aging. And since it also has antibacterial properties, it may also help reduce acne and other skin inflammations that may result from bacteria.
The great news about CBG is that despite not having many clinical trials on humans to mimic the animals’ benefits, the adverse side effects are few and far between. Like with CBD, it’s best to avoid CBG if you take a medication with a grapefruit warning. Grapefruits contain chemicals called furanocoumarins, which disrupt the proteins that break down certain medications. These medicines will often come with a grapefruit warning. CBD binds with the same enzymes, and it’s likely that CBG may as well.
How to use CBG?
CBG can be consumed in a variety of ways, including orally, topically, and through inhalation. The most common method of consumption is orally, through the use of CBG oil. CBG oil is made by extracting CBG from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. The oil can then be consumed directly or added to food and drinks.
Does CBG get you high?
No, CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and will not get you high. Unlike THC, CBG does not bind to the CB1 receptors in the brain, so it does not produce the same psychoactive effects.
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of CBG, current studies suggest that it may have several therapeutic properties, including as an anti-inflammatory and an appetite stimulant. Additionally, CBG has been shown to have neuroprotective effects and to reduce inflammation in the gut. However, it’s important to note that these potential benefits are still being studied and more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Despite this, many people are turning to CBG and other hemp-derived compounds as alternative options for managing a variety of health conditions.
Where Can I Buy Products With CBG?
Since CBG is such a small part of the cannabis plant, products you’ll find will usually contain other cannabinoids, like CBD as well.
CBG Isolate exists (and is typically pretty expensive), but it doesn’t include the other cannabinoids, which isn’t necessarily a good thing. When you combine CBG with other cannabinoids and terpenes, you get what’s called the entourage effect.
The entourage effect makes the therapeutic benefits stronger because the CBG combined with other compounds, like terpenes, flavonoids, and other lesser-known cannabinoids.
The best way to get a dose of CBG is to purchase full-spectrum CBD products like these that are natural and contain no harmful additives.
- CBD Oil Vape Pen Starter Kit (includes battery and cartridge)
- CBD Disposable Vape Pens
- Full Gram CBD Cartridges
Just getting started with CBD vaping? Here’s some more information: Vaporizing Oils: Your 2021 Guide to CBD Vapes
Conclusion
CBG is a promising alternative to traditional medicine and has a wide range of medicinal properties that make it a valuable addition to any wellness routine. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, an antidepressant, or a natural alternative to traditional antibiotics, CBG may be worth exploring. With its growing popularity and increasing research, we can expect to see more and more studies on the benefits of CBG in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is CBG extracted?
CBG can be extracted from the hemp plant using methods such as CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, and steam distillation.
Is CBG Psychoactive?
No, CBG is not psychoactive as it does not bind to the brain’s CB1 receptors and does not alter perception, thinking, or behavior. It is considered non-psychoactive.
How is CBG tested for purity and potency?
CBG products should be tested for purity and potency by a third-party laboratory to ensure they contain the amount of CBG claimed on the label and are free from contaminants. Look for products that include a certificate of analysis (COA) from a third-party laboratory.
How much CBG should I take?
The appropriate dose of CBG depends on a number of factors such as age, weight, and the reason for use. There is no standard dose of CBG, and more research is needed to determine the appropriate dose for different conditions. It is always recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Can CBG be used for pain relief?
There is limited research on the effects of CBG for pain relief, but it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and to interact with the endocannabinoid system. CBG may have potential for reducing pain, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Can CBG be used to treat anxiety and depression?
There is limited research on the effects of CBG for anxiety and depression, but it has been shown to have potential as an anxiolytic and antidepressant. CBG may help to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Can CBG be used to improve skin health?
CBG has been shown to have potential as a skincare ingredient due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. CBG may help to reduce inflammation and improve skin health, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Can CBG be used as a sleep aid?
There is limited research on the effects of CBG for sleep, but it has been shown to have potential as a sleep aid. CBG may help to improve sleep quality and duration, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting CBG for sleep.
