CBG, or cannabigerol, is considered the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it's the precursor to many of the other cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. While much less abundant in the cannabis plant-often times far less than 1%-compared to the other compounds present within the plant, the potential uses of CBG are numerous and very worth considering.
What is CBG?
CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid of the cannabis plant that exists in young plants. As cannabis flowers mature, CBG breaks down into other cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC. By the time most cannabis plants are harvested, only a little CBG remains, usually less than 1%. These days, breeders try to develop plants that specifically have high levels of CBG in order to harness these potential benefits.
How Does CBG Work?
CBG works in the body through the endocannabinoid system directly with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These two receptors are directly integrated into mood, appetite, and pain management. Though CBG does not produce any high, as does THC, it can still have influences on the ECS, potentially being therapeutically helpful.
The Benefits of CBG
CBG is still a subject of research, and though the early studies and anecdotal reports are varied, the potential benefits include anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotective effects, antimicrobial properties, pain reliever, analgesic, and anti-oxidative.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBG has shown some promise in reducing inflammation, thus being a potential option for one to consider in case of inflammatory conditions like Crohn's disease or arthritis.
- Neuroprotective Effects: CBG might help in protecting the brain cells from damage to the cells, which can further help in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's disease.
- Pain Relief: Like CBD, CBG is seemingly useful in the treatment and management of pain but doesn't come along with psychoactive side effects similar to THC.
- Glaucoma Treatment: CBG has shown evidence of reducing intraocular pressure and would therefore be useful for those affected by glaucoma.
- Appetite Stimulant: CBG has also been seen to stimulate appetite, helpful in cases of weight loss because of illness.
Types of CBG Products
Several types of CBG exist, much like their more famous cannabinoid siblings:
- CBG Oil: Perhaps one of the best ways of using this cannabinoid is with CBG oil, taken under the tongue.
- CBG Flower: These are a variety of flowers bred specifically for higher-than-usual amounts of CBG. They can be smoked or vaporized to enjoy its effects.
- CBG Capsules: One of the easiest ways to take CBG involves these pre-measured capsules.
- CBG Topicals: These are CBG-based balms or creams that are applied to the skin to assist with pains or inflammation in certain areas of the body.
Is CBG Legal?
CBG is considered legal on a federal level in the United States, so long as it is sourced from the resin of hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC. However, as with all cannabis products, it's best to check your local law to verify that CBG is legal within your particular state or country.
Is CBG Safe?
Generally, CBG is considered harmless. Research is still in its very early days, but big side effects are not known. As always, though, it's wise to speak to a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement into your routine-especially if you take any medications.
Final Thoughts on CBG
While perhaps not as renowned as some of its brothers, the potential benefits that arise from CBG are immense: from anti-inflammatory properties to neuroprotective effects, CBG could soon be another staple in people's medicine cabinets looking for natural relief for a multitude of ailments. And with ongoing research into this molecule, it is likely we will find out even more about how this "mother of all cannabinoids" really is.
