Overview
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If you have been a cannabis user for quite some time or are just particularly interested in cannabis, you might have already heard about THC and CBD. Those two are the most popular cannabinoid today, and there has been much discussion about their effects and benefits. This post might be different since we will be talking about the lesser-known cannabinoid, but with remarkably good effects, which is the CBD or cannabigerol. Although CBG is not abundant in levels and may not be present in all strains, it is definitely a cannabinoid, which is worth a page in our book.
Cannabigerol Information – What is CBG?
Cannabigerol, often found in limited quantities in cannabis plants, is a lesser-known cannabinoid. However, it’s famously known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” a title it earns for a compelling reason. This is because other cannabinoids present in cannabis plants originate from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the acidic precursor to CBG. With the increasing popularity and unique therapeutic properties of cannabis, there’s growing interest not only in THC and CBD levels but also in other cannabinoids like CBG.
CBG levels in cannabis plants are low compared to CBD and THC. CBG only comes at 1% levels while CBD ranges from 20% to 25% and THC from 25% to 30% – this is why products derived from rare and purest forms of cannabinoids are pricey. Despite being expensive, CBG has also built its name, in the line of the most well-known cannabinoids, because of its potential health effects and benefits.
CBG Production
The production of CBG typically involves extracting it from younger cannabis plants, as these plants have higher CBG concentrations than their mature counterparts. Certain strains are specifically cultivated for their elevated CBG content, such as White CBG, Jack Frost CBG, and Super Glue CBG.
In younger plants, CBG is more abundant because most cannabinoids initially exist as CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), the acidic precursor to CBG. As the plant ages, the amount of CBG decreases since it gets converted into other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Given the challenges in extracting substantial quantities of CBG due to its reduced presence in mature plants, cultivators are exploring methods like cross-breeding and genetic modification to boost the production of CBG in cannabis plants.
How CBG works
CBG, like all other cannabinoids, are processed in the endocannabinoid system of the human body. They also interact with the cannabinoid receptors, which are the CB1 and CB2 receptors. As mentioned in the other articles, the CB1 is mostly seen and active in the brain or the central nervous system. At the same time, the CB2 is distributed around the relevant major organs and the immune system.
CBG will then bind with these cannabinoid receptors and other receptors in the body that are capable of engaging the CBG compound. When CBG can bind to these receptors successfully, they now proceed to send signals to start the mechanism of action and eventually produce the effects and benefits that they bring. CBG compounds can interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors; however, they can bind more strongly to the CB2 receptors. This interaction has shown that CBG is able to bind with the endocannabinoid system in a couple of ways that are likely to be beneficial and therapeutic.
There is also a huge possibility that CBG is able to produce a unique set of physiological effects apart from those being produced by THC and CBD. CBG is also not capable of producing a defined and intense high because of the absence of psychoactive properties.
CBG and its relation to the Entourage Effect
There is no question that each cannabinoid has its own unique set of therapeutic and medicinal effects. However, when these cannabinoids function and work synergistically, direct and indirect interactions between these cannabinoids and other compounds may take place. These interactions then produce a phenomenon known as the entourage effect that can modify and improve the overall medicinal effect of the cannabis plant. Therefore, when THC, CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoids are combined with working together, the user will better affect the mind and body. Many users have claimed that the entourage effect has helped in the reduction of intoxication and paranoia brought about by THC.
CBG vs. CBD
CBG and CBD are both non-psychoactive and come with many health and therapeutic benefits, so they are commonly compared to each other. The most distinct difference between their interaction with the endocannabinoid system. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system indirectly because of its low affinity for the cannabinoid receptors. CBG, on the other hand, can interact directly with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors to efficiently bring out its health benefits towards the body. CBG is also effective in working as a buffer against the psychoactive effects of THC.
When it comes to production, CBG is scarce compared to CBD. This is the reason why manufacturers prefer to produce CBD rather than CBG.
Benefits of CBG
Like all the other cannabinoids and other compounds in the cannabis plants, CBG has its own set of research-proven benefits too. According to studies, CBG can work as a neuroprotective agent that can greatly contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. CBG can function to prevent oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, therefore serving as a neuroprotectant.
CBG has a good deal of contribution to inflammation, too, since it has remarkable anti-inflammatory properties as many cannabinoids do. This makes CBG an effective relief for symptoms that are related to inflammation, and this cannabinoid even has tumor-inhibiting properties, which is indeed very impressive.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBG is also a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent. CBG has remarkable antibacterial properties making it a candidate for a combined treatment against MRSA.
Being an excellent vasodilator with neuroprotective properties, CBG can also demonstrate effects that can help in the treatment of glaucoma y lowering pressure around the optic area.
How to use CBG
The most common and convenient way to enjoy CBG intake is through CBG oil. CBG oils are pure, and they tend to be expensive because they are rare and scarce. If you cannot find or purchase a CBD product, you may still be able to enjoy its benefits by using broad-spectrum CBD oils. The broad-spectrum ones contain all the other cannabinoids, except THC, found in cannabis plants, and that includes CBG. As previously noted, when cannabinoids are combined, they often enhance each other’s effectiveness, achieving what is known as the entourage effect.
CBG in Products
Unfortunately, CBG is extremely costly to produce and to able to create even a small amount of product, and you will need tons of biomass. This is because CBG is present in minute levels in cannabis plants, and CBG production needs highly specialized chromatographic equipment that can be very expensive.
Growers and cultivators have also genetically enhanced the cannabis plants to produce more THC and CBD, so to extract more CBG, they might also need to work on genetically modified cannabis plants that will be able to produce more CBG. These cultivators and scientists have worked to solve this problem by selecting existing cannabis strains that have a high CBG genetic make-up compared to others.
All the processes and plans will take a lot of time and effort, but there is already something to look forward to since many growers and cultivators are already working to address the problem.
Wrapping up on CBG
Cannabis plants are intriguing and remarkable, boasting a plethora of compounds that offer a diverse array of benefits and actions. Each plant is distinct, varying in aspects such as physical appearance, aroma, flavor, effects, and health benefits. These variations stem from their complex chemical compositions, which imbue each cannabis plant with its unique characteristics.
These plants are rich in organic and chemical compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and phytocannabinoids. These elements are key to the plant’s health benefits and therapeutic effects. Cannabis can provide relaxation and relief from various symptoms and illnesses, showcasing its wide-ranging potential. The growing recognition of compounds like CBG, alongside well-known cannabinoids like CBD and THC, highlights the expanding understanding of the plant’s properties. As we continue to explore the cannabis world, the spotlight on other deserving cannabinoids will likely lead to further discoveries and applications.