Cannabis is a highly diverse plant with over chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, each possessing different effects and possible benefits. As the industry progresses, cannabinoids beyond CBD and THC become more accessible, the most recent being CBG. In this article, we'll discuss the key differences and similarities between CBD and CGB so you can better understand which suits your needs.
CBG – The Mother Cannabinoid
CBG is just beginning to break through into mainstream consciousness. With THC and CBD dominating the conversation, many other cannabinoids have been overlooked. However, thanks to new genetically modified hemp strains, CBG is now readily available to the masses.
Below are some basics so you can understand what separates CBG from CBD.
What is CBG?
CBG is the precursor of cannabis compounds, earning its nickname, "The Mother Cannabinoid." Before CBD, THC, CBC, and other cannabinoids are converted into acidic forms, they begin as CBGa. As a result, produced marijuana and hemp flower only contain trace amounts of CBG. However, once research suggested that CBG could have a unique range of benefits, possible medical applications, and market demand, cannabis breeders began developing high CBG hemp strains.
Potential Benefits of CBG
While there is still more we need to learn about the benefits and application of CBG, advocates have reported using CBG for inflammation, glaucoma, as a neuroprotectant, appetite stimulant, and for its potential antibacterial properties. Unfortunately, CBG hasn't been approved by the FDA to treat these conditions, but that hasn't stopped CBG enthusiasts from taking advantage of the wide range of effects.
Current Research
Studies exploring the medical potential of CBG are limited; however, as more people discover the cannabinoid, we expect to see the frequency of research increase.
Here are some of the most promising studies to date:
For more information on the benefits of CBG, check out this blog post, where we break down how researchers have observed CBG's neuroprotectant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties.
CBG Vs. CBD
Both cannabinoids are naturally produced during the cannabis plant's lifecycle, and while they have similarities, there are some key differences.
Similarities
CBG and CBD are both non-intoxicating, meaning you won't experience the marijuana high when you use CBG oil, topical, or edible products. Another similarity is both CBD and CBG are 100% legal in the United States as long as the extract doesn't contain more than 0.3% THC.
There's also some overlap in the reasons why people use each cannabinoid. Advocates report using CBD and CBG to fight inflammation, reduce muscle and joint soreness, and for potential neuroprotectant properties.
Differences
The most significant difference between the two cannabinoids is the amount of research. CBD has been widely studied (although still not adequately), while CBG is just starting to get the attention needed for substantive, large-scale studies.
CBG also interacts with the endocannabinoid system differently than CBD. While CBD indirectly influences CB1 and CB2 receptors by increasing anandamide production, CBG binds with receptors in the ECS. In other words, CBG has the ability to interact directly with CB1 and CB2, the two receptors responsible for delivering benefits. As a result, CBG can produce various results even for benefits it shares with CBD because of the cannabinoid's unique mechanism of relief.
The relationship between CBG and the ECS also causes different benefits. The effects are reflected in areas researchers have focused attention on, including CBG's ability to influence:
Glaucoma
Huntington's Disease
Increase appetite
Irritable bowel syndrome
Bacterial infections
We don't have sufficient evidence to suggest CBG treats any of these conditions; they are simply the areas scientists believe are worth studying.
How to Choose Between CBD or CBG?
Now that we've covered the differences and similarities between CBD and CBG, you need to decide which cannabinoid will lead to better results.
Identify Personal Needs
Make a list of areas you'd like to improve in your life. If CBG's benefits align with your conditions, you may want to give CBG a try.
Have You Tried CBD?
If you've already tried CBD for overlapping benefits like reducing inflammation, stabilizing mood, or fighting pain to no avail, CBG may deliver the desired results.
When to Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you are on medications or are hesitant to add cannabinoids to your health regimen, consult your doctor. While CBD and CBG are tolerated well by humans, it's always a good idea to be cautious.
Find Premium Full Spectrum CBG Products
Once you've outlined your needs and desired effects, it's time to find a reputable source for CBG. We highly recommend using CBG with other cannabinoids in a full-spectrum extract. Experts agree that whole plant products deliver better results than isolated cannabinoids.
Finding Premium Cannabinoid Products
When shopping for any cannabinoid hemp product, including CBG and CBD, ensure your retailer meets the following criteria.
Identified Source of Hemp
You need to know where your hemp is coming from. Many retailers are buying hemp in bulk from various unknown sources, importing from foreign countries, or using synthetic cannabinoids.
Solventless Extraction
Solvents are typically left behind in the final product if they are used in the extraction process. Ensure you don't consume dangerous chemicals by buying CBG products manufactured solvent-free.
3rd Party Testing
Testing cannabis products through a 3rd party lab, separate from the retailer and free of bias, is the only way you can definitively know what is in your CBG.
CBG from Bhuvi Farms
At Bhuvi Farms, we've spent years developing our 100% Texas-grown CBG product line. We proudly offer products sourced from the hemp we've grown, extracted without solvents, and manufactured into oils and topicals in-house.
If you have any questions about our products or process or just want to talk about CBG, don't hesitate to reach out. We'd love to hear from you!
Comments