Almost everyone knows something (or has used) about CBD and THC. Very few, however, know about CBG oil (cannabigerol), another naturally occurring compound in the cannabis/hemp plant. CBG , like CBD, is a potent compound packing numerous therapeutic benefits. While the two are products of the cannabis plant and seem similar, they are quite different in terms of molecular structure and composition. This article outlines what CBG is and its differences and similarities with CBD.
What is Cannabigerol (CBG)?
CBG occurs naturally in an infant or young cannabis plant. It first occurs in abundance in an acidic form commonly known as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA. CBGA is, however, converted to tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabichromenic acid (CBCA), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) as the plant approaches its maturity stage. These acids form the basis of what eventually turns out to THC, CBC, and CBD.
While most of the CBGA is converted into the 3 precursors, the remaining acid is decarboxylated to produce CBG. CBG occurs in lower concentrations compared to the other 3 cannabidiols, hence somewhat challenging to extract. CBG can thus be termed as the primary ‘raw’ material for all the other 3 cannabinoids, making it the most coveted supplement once extracted. CBG has thus earned the names ‘Mother of Cannabinoids’ and the Rolls-Royce of Cannabinoids due to its elusive and expensive characteristic.
The Difference Between CBD And CBG ?
How They Are Manufactured
Both CBD and THC are products of CBG. Although they may seem quite similar, CBG and CBD have an entirely different molecular structure. It is worth noting that traces of CBG can be found in full-spectrum CBD products. This mostly happens if all of the CBGA wasn’t converted into cannabidiols.
Concentration Levels
Large amounts of CBG are converted to form CBD and other cannabidiols. This is one of the reasons for the high concentrations of CBD in cannabis leaves. The abundance of CBD is what makes the compound relatively easy to extract and isolate. The amount of CBG in dry cannabis leaves is thus less than 1 percent. However, researchers believe CBG is the most abundant when the plant is in its 6th and 8th flowering cycle.
Interaction With The ECS (Endocannabinoid System)
Researchers believe CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system in an almost similar way as CBD does. Studies have also revealed CBG to be far more effective and to have an immediate impact on CB1 (nervous system) and CB2 (immune system) receptors. Researchers are, however, yet to determine how CBG affects or impacts the endocannabinoid system. Many are of the idea that CBG packs more potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, and anti-asthmatic properties when compared to CBD. The studies are, however, inconclusive, one of the reasons CBG discovered several years after CBD.
What Happens If CBG And CBD Combine?
CBD and CBG bind together, triggering a phenomenon commonly known as ‘The Entourage Effect.’ In other words, the two complement each other in several ways, thus enhancing their potency and impact on the user’s health and wellbeing. While each of these has potent therapeutic benefits, a combination of the two produces incredible results.
While CBG and CBG have almost similar properties, they have shown to be more effective together. CBG is believed to enhance CBG’s capabilities, making it more powerful and effective. An excellent example of these is CBD’s antibacterial properties, which are amplified once CBG and CBG bind together.
Is CBG Lawful
CBG is a lawful product in Ireland. This is because it contains almost similar properties as CBD but without the intoxicating effects of THC. Researchers also believe CBG counteracts THC by inhibiting its activation, rendering it useless to some extent. This is because CBG binds to CB1 receptors much faster than THC.
Can I Try CBG ?
CBG isn’t as readily available in the market as CBD or CBD edibles. One of the reasons for this is because many manufacturers shy away from the expensive extraction methods involved. Brands that do offer this product, however, offer it ‘cocktailed’ with several other cannabinoids and ingredients. You might, however, be lucky to find a brand offering pure CBG. These come in the form of oil spray and capsules, all in three different concentrations. You might want to go slow on CBG if it is your first time to try – the most obvious reason is the full entourage effect. Consider going for the 600mg CBG capsules or 800mg CBG entourage spray.
CBG capsules or spray can be taken either orally or placed under the tongue for the best results. As mentioned before, start with a low dosage, then small increments of the same until a sweet spot is reached for the desired effect/results. Doing so allows the body to adjust accordingly and reduce the risk of possible side effects from the same.
