What is Cannabigerol? Update on Benefits of CBG

If you’ve been hearing about CBD and THC, you might wonder what else the cannabis plant offers. Enter cannabigerol (CBG), a rising star in the world of cannabinoids. Often called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG is gaining attention for its wide range of potential health benefits. Let’s break down what CBG is, how it works, and why more people are turning to it for various health concerns. We’ve covered CBG before, this update includes the latest findings, trends and studies on the benefits and potential therapeutic uses of CBG. relative to CBD

What is Cannabigerol (CBG)?

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It doesn’t produce a “high” like THC but plays a crucial role in the plant’s cannabinoid development. Here’s why:
CBG’s Role in Cannabinoid Formation
CBG starts as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the foundational compound from which all major cannabinoids are derived. As the cannabis plant matures, CBGA undergoes enzymatic reactions that convert it into three main cannabinoid precursors:
THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) – the precursor to THC.
CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) – the precursor to CBD.
CBCA (cannabichromenic acid) – the precursor to CBC.
When the plant is exposed to heat or light, these acidic forms (THCA, CBDA, CBCA) decarboxylate into their neutral forms:
THC – known for its psychoactive effects.
CBD – famous for its therapeutic benefits without the “high.”
CBC – linked to anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
This biochemical transformation explains why mature plants have higher concentrations of THC or CBD and very little CBG—most of the CBG has already converted into these other cannabinoids.
What is the significance of this? The takeaway is that CBG converts to the more familiar cannabinoids you may be familiar with.

How CBG Works in the Body

CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps keep your body balanced. The ECS has two main types of receptors:
CB1 Receptors: Found in the brain and nervous system.
CB2 Receptors: Found in the immune system and other parts of the body.
CBG binds to both receptors, enhancing the function of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that influences mood, appetite, sleep, and pain. This unique interaction is why CBG is believed to have therapeutic effects.

Benefits of CBG

Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Feeling anxious or down? CBG could help. Many people find CBG-rich products more effective than traditional medications for easing anxiety and depression.
Relieves Chronic Pain
Living with long-term pain can be tough. CBG shows promise as a natural pain reliever, with users reporting significant relief from chronic pain conditions.
Fights Inflammation
If you struggle with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), CBG might offer relief by reducing gut inflammation and discomfort.
Lowers Intraocular Pressure in Glaucoma
CBG has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), making it a potential treatment for glaucoma. By increasing eye fluid drainage, it helps protect vision.
Neuro-protection for Huntington’s Disease
CBG may protect nerve cells from damage in neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease. Early research shows it can maintain cell health and prevent toxic neurotransmitter effects.
Cancer-Fighting Potential
CBG might slow the growth of breast cancer cells and reduce inflammation linked to cancer. Though research is still ongoing, early findings are promising.
Antibacterial Properties
CBG has strong antibacterial effects, especially against MRSA (a drug-resistant bacteria that causes staph infections). This could make it a powerful tool in fighting bacterial infections.

Psychology Journal Studies on CBG

Reddit Threads are active on the lesser known topic of CBG. The following discussion was a summary of a study published by Nature.

Cannabigerol (CBG), a lesser-known cannabinoid, may reduce anxiety. A clinical trial found that 20 mg of hemp-derived CBG significantly lowered anxiety without intoxication and may enhance memory, marking the first human study on its effects on anxiety and mood.

Academic title: “Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial.”

Authors: Carrie Cuttler, Amanda Stueber, Ziva D. Cooper, Ethan Russo.

Overview of Cannabigerol (CBG)

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a lesser-known cannabinoid gaining popularity for its potential benefits, particularly in reducing anxiety without the intoxication associated with cannabis.

Clinical Trial Findings

A study led by Carrie Cuttler at Washington State University investigated CBG’s effects on anxiety, stress, and mood. The trial found that 20 mg of hemp-derived CBG significantly reduced anxiety levels at 20, 45, and 60 minutes post-ingestion compared to a placebo.

Participant Experience

The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved 34 healthy cannabis users who rated their anxiety, stress, and mood before and after taking CBG or a placebo. Participants reported low intoxication and minimal side effects, with no cognitive impairments observed.

Memory Enhancement

Surprisingly, CBG improved memory recall, allowing participants to remember more words after ingestion compared to the placebo, contrary to THC’s known memory-impairing effects.

Cautions and Limitations

Cuttler cautions that results should be interpreted carefully due to limitations, including the study’s focus on experienced cannabis users and the modest CBG dose. The remote nature of the study and lack of physiological measurements also constrain conclusions.

Future Research Directions

Cuttler’s team plans to conduct further trials to replicate findings, include physiological measures, and explore CBG’s effects on non-cannabis users and menopause symptoms in women. They emphasize the need for more research to fully understand CBG’s benefits and safety.

How to Use CBG

CBG Oil

The most popular way to use CBG is through CBG oil. It’s harder to find and comes at a bit of a premium, but it offers concentrated benefits compared to other cannabinoids.
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil
If pure CBG is hard to find, try broad-spectrum CBD oil, which contains multiple cannabinoids (including CBG) and terpenes. The entourage effect—where cannabinoids and terpenes work together—boosts its effectiveness.
Smoking Cannabis
Some people consume CBG by smoking cannabis. However, regular use can lead to cannabis use disorder, so be cautious and mindful of potential risks.

Is CBG Safe?

CBG is generally well-tolerated, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Blood Pressure: CBG might lower blood pressure, so if you’re on blood pressure medication, monitor your levels closely.
Cholesterol and Inflammation: CBG may also help lower cholesterol and reduce swelling, supporting overall heart and brain health.

Final Thoughts

CBG is a powerful cannabinoid with a wide range of potential health benefits, from reducing anxiety and chronic pain to protecting nerve cells and fighting bacteria. As research continues, more people are exploring CBG as a natural remedy for various conditions.
If you’re curious about trying CBG, start with high-quality CBG oil or a broad-spectrum CBD product. And as always, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s the right fit for your health needs.
Ready to give CBG a try? It might just be the natural solution you’ve been looking for!

Reference links:
https://www.verywellmind.com/cannabigerol-cbg-uses-and-benefits-5085266

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1602/cannabigerol-cbg

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9666035/

https://sensiseeds.com/en/blog/cannabinoid-science-101-what-is-cannabigerol-cbg/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66879-0