This article aims to highlight some of the key features and differences of CBG (cannabigerol) in comparison to CBD(cannabidiol) and THC. We hope this helps to educate you and gives a better idea of when each one is appropriate to use.
CBD is the most abundant cannabinoid found in hemp. It has a wide range of medical applications, and is considered safe for consumption. CBG, on the contrary, is only found during the blooming phase in the hemp plant. CBG is often referred to as the mother of all cannabinoids. This is because other cannabinoids are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG.
Though they offer very similar therapeutic properties, CBG and CBD do have some differences. For example, the two cannabinoids have different molecular structures. This means that the arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen is different. Molecular structure impacts how the cannabinoid binds with receptors and also impacts bioavailability
CBD vs CBG: Do they get you high?
Both cannabinoids are non-intoxicating. That means you absolutely will not get high from ingesting CBD or CBG products derived from hemp. THC on the other hand does have consciousness altering qualities.
Therapeutic Effects
- Seizures
Proven an effective anti-seizure treatment, CBD can dramatically reduce tremors in childhood epilepsy. CBG does not display the same anti-convulsive effects, according to preliminary research.
- Pain
Research on CBG is in its infancy, however in 2018, The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) announced plans to research CBG for pain relief due to the cannabinoid’s known analgesic properties.
Pain is one of most overly-medicated conditions, which has led to widespread opioid abuse and countless deaths. Patients are calling for safer alternatives, and CBG may be one game-changing solution.
- Depression/Anxiety
CBD is also touted as one of the most natural methods against symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. These effects are precisely what makes CBD so popular as a natural aid for daily stress and emotional suffering. While CBG doesn’t exhibit the same anti-anxiety powers, it offers a host of important benefits, and acts as an anti-inflammatory.
- Chronic Disease
CBG has been found to alleviate neurological inflammation in MS (multiple sclerosis) (1) and may be useful in Parkinson’s as well. “In particular, the myelin-preserving effects of CBG (and derivatives) in MS models, and reduction of microglia and astrocyte activation are candidate effects that may be relevant to TBI treatment and should be studied directly.” (2)
- Concussions (TBI)
Although more research needs to be done, there is promising potential for CBG to help people with TBI (traumatic brain injury) due to the myelin-preserving qualities. There is more available evidence for CBD but CBG is worthy of use as well given preliminary data.
- Digestive
CBG has shown promise for people suffering from IBD (irritable bowel disease) and is worthy of experimentation in this regard since it can be a very challenging condition to treat conventionally. (3) Some users have also reported it may help appetite stimulation. (this could be good or bad depending on your situation)
CBG is therefore a promising alternative to the high-inducing THC cannabinoid for someone looking to support a healthier appetite.
- Glaucoma
In an animal study, researchers found that CBG has therapeutic potential for the treatment of glaucoma.
Researchers administered CBG to cats with glaucoma and noticed a reduction in eye pressure and an increase in aqueous humor outflow, a fluid produced by the eye that maintains eye pressure and provides the eye with nutrition (4)
- Huntington’s Disease
In a 2015 study, researchers examined the potential neuroprotective properties of CBG and other cannabinoids in mice who had an experimental model of Huntington’s disease. It was observed that CBG acted as a neuroprotectant, protecting the brain’s nerve cells from damage. It also improved motor deficits and preserved striatal neurons against 3-nitropropionic acid toxicity. (5)
In an older animal study, CBG and CBD were both found to interact with GABA activity, slowing the breakdown of GABA in the brain, which helps to induce a sense of calm, counteracting the stress response’s hyperactivity. This is beneficial for most everyone. The major difference is that CBG seems to be more reliable for daytime use for concentration and focus, while many people prefer CBD oil for general wellness and to support sleep.
Although these are still early times in terms of CBG research, there are some very promising therapeutic uses to be explored in comparison to the much more well-known CBD. CBD is more well-known for pain, anxiety, general inflammation, depression, & epilepsy. CBG however may be useful for chronic disease, digestive concerns, glaucoma, and concussions (neuroregeneration & preservation) among other yet to be discovered applications.
Vitalita has a variety of CBD products and formats available and you can find our CBG tinctures in 2 strengths here.
REFERENCES
1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22971837/
2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10026409/
3) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295213000543?via%3Dihub
4) Colasanti BK. A comparison of the ocular and central effects of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabigerol. Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 1990;6(4):259-269.
5) Valdeolivas S, Navarrete C, Cantarero I, Bellido ML, Muñoz E, Sagredo O. Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in huntington’s disease: studies in r6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice. Neurotherapeutics. 2015;12(1):185-199.