CBG (Cannabigerol) is one of the hundreds of lesser-known minor cannabinoids naturally occurring in the cannabis plant. Why are cannabinoids other than THC and CBD referred to as “minor”, you may ask? The term minor describes the cannabinoids that occur in lower potencies. In most strains, CBG is found in concentrations of only 1% or less, compared to concentrations of THC and CBD which naturally occur at 10-30%. CBG is often called the “Mother of Cannabinoids” because it is the natural precursor to all other cannabinoids. As plants mature, CBG synthesizes into THC or CBD. As more information is discovered about the potential health benefits and positive effects of CBG, growers have begun cultivating higher CBG strains to keep up with new and increasing demand.
CBG EFFECTS & MEDICAL USE
CBG has been studied for many potential medical uses and has also been identified anecdotally for other potential benefits that have yet to be proven. Like most cannabinoids, CBG has been acknowledged as an anti-inflammatory. In addition to fighting inflammation, it has been recognized to be beneficial in treating inflammatory bowel disease and Crohn’s in studies done on mice. CBG’s anti-inflammatory properties also extend to alleviating neuroinflammation. A 2012 study found that CBG had a high potential for use against MS symptoms (and possibly for other neuroinflammatory diseases) by protecting neuronal cells and inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators. These findings were supported in a 2015 study where researchers continued to examine the neuroprotective properties of CBG, this time concluding that CBG could also be effective in protecting nerve cells in the brain from the effects of Huntington’s disease.
While proven effective in alleviating the effects of IBS, CBG may also serve as a strong inhibitor of colon cancer cells. Another study conducted in 2014 found strong evidence (again, in rodents) that CBG could hamper the growth of tumors and impede the progression of colon cancer.
Antibacterial properties were added to the list of potential CBG health benefits in 2020 when a study found that CBG was effective in reducing strains of bacteria linked with drug-resistant forms of staph infections.
Anecdotal effects of CBG vary from person to person based on each individual’s unique body chemistry. Like CBD, CBG has no psychoactive effects, but many users report that CBG gives them a boost of energy and motivation (which may be due to CBG binding to and strengthening anandamide, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the regulation of motivation and pleasure, regulates appetite, and has analgesic properties). Other users have commented on CBG displaying strong anti-anxiety effects, also possibly attributed to the strengthening of anandamide function.
LEGALITY
Due to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, CBG as a derivative of Hemp is considered federally legal in the United States. Because CBG is found in such low percentages, the cost is much higher than that of CBD. CBG genetics are coming into refinement, but CBG distillate is nevertheless sold at a minimum of 6 times the market price of CBD. Plants are generally harvested early in order to extract the CBG before it can synthesize into other cannabinoids.
CBG PRODUCTS
In WA state, one of CPPNW’s most trusted brands, Green Revolution offers a few CBG products. In their line of “Fast Tabs” which are highly bioavailable and quick dissolving, the “Happiest Self” version features Full Spectrum CBD with added CBG. These capsules are meant to reduce stress and anxiety and give an uplifting, relaxing effect. This product retails for $54-$60, available at Fire & Frost and GreenHead Cannabis in the Vancouver area. High End Marketplace carries 2 varieties of 1:1:1 CBD/CBG/CBC vape cartridges from JV Ranch, which retail for $35 for 1g. They also carry a 1:1:1 CBD/CBG/THC capsule by Fairwinds which retails for $30 /15 doses.
The CBD industry has truly embraced CBG with many innovative products on the market and more sure to arrive soon. Not only that, these products can be purchased online from the comfort of your home! Keep in mind that federal regulation of this market is limited. We recommend purchasing hemp products from a reputable source that does regular 3rd party testing and makes these tests available for viewing on their website. One product to try is the “Move” Tincture from Naternal. Move is a 1:1 product with 1200mg CBG and 1200mg CBD. The combination promotes relief from inflammation and gives a nice little burst of energy and focus for most users. CBD American Shaman carries a Cherry flavored CBG Gummy with added Apple Cider Vinegar to promote weight loss along with the focused energizing effects of CBG. The gummies have 10mg CBG and 3.5mg CBD per piece and retail for $34.99 - $59.99.
DOSAGE
The recommended dosage for CBG has a wide range. Some brands dose 5-10mg per serving and others dose as high as 40mg. As with most cannabis and hemp products, we recommend starting low and seeing how your own body reacts. 10-20mg is a great starting point and can be increased as needed. Keep in mind that if you are ingesting CBG, it can take up to 90 minutes to feel the full effects.
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