CBG Benefits and Effects: Is It Better Than CBD?

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Over the last few years, CBD-based products have grown rapidly in popularity thanks to their holistic and therapeutic properties.

And Cannabigerol (CBG) is attracting interest for having some medicinal CBG benefits of its own. So of course You want to know what the CBG benefits and effects are and is it better than CBD.

Both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive which means they will not have the same ability to create a high the way THC will.

But, unlike CBD, however, little research has been performed on CBG, but the studies that are available suggest that it holds considerable therapeutic promise.

The CBG benefits according to recent studies are from high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies. 

What Is CBG?

CBG (cannabigerol) is one of the many organic compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. In most strains of the plant, only 1% of CBG can be found compared to 20 to 25% of CBD or up to 30% THC.

CBG stands out from the crowd of hemp-derived cannabinoids for one interesting reason.

It is known as the mother of all cannabinoids because it is the precursor to all
other cannabinoids such as CBD (Cannabidiol), CBN (Cannabinol), CBC (Cannabichromene), and THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid). Meaning, CBG is needed for us to even experience THC and CBD. 

It also activates both  CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This means it could possibly hold the cumulative qualities of all the other cannabinoids put together.

Read on to see the benefits of CBG, and much, much more. 

Potential CBG Benefits

While the research is still in the early stages, scientists have transitioned resources to focus on the power of CBG. Animal Studies thus far suggest that it offers several benefits.

CBG might ultimately be found useful for the following therapeutic benefits listed below.

A recent study on  CBG anti-inflammatory properties suggests it can help limit excess lipogenesis and therefore prevent obesity.

CBG may also stimulate receptors that cause nausea.

CBG May Reverse The Aging Process

One thing the benefits of CBG stands out for is reducing inflammation and oxidative stress which is defined as an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body.

Oxidative stress can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, which can contribute to aging, and diseases,  including diabetes, cancer, inflammatory conditions, high blood pressure, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Some of the most common conditions are Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's, Huntington’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis.

All neurodegenerative diseases are caused by the death of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which leads to problems with balance, movement, talking, breathing, and/or mental function.

As people are living longer, an ever-increasing number are afflicted by these debilitating diseases. Neurodegeneration is now one of the major causes of preventing one's ability to carry on with regular activities and death.

Sadly, there is no cure for these progressive diseases. But thankfully, cannabinoids, and notably CBG, are showing great promise for future potential therapies.

Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects of CBG

A recent  2020 study was conducted to compare the Neuroinflammation efficacy of CBD and CBG. The study’s researchers say that CBD’s effectiveness against neurological diseases has already been demonstrated.

So rodent experiments were carried out to measure the different roles that inflammation and oxidative stress played between the two cannabinoids’ effects.

The scientists conducted multiple tests to mimic the effects of neurological diseases on rat tissue. Both CBD and CBG proved effective, but, when the brain and spinal cord cells were exposed to hydrogen peroxide-induced toxicity.

“CBG was more potent than CBD in blunting neurotransmitter depletion,” the study concluded.

CBG was also more potent than CBD in counteracting toxicity in experiments done on rat cortexes.

Parkinson’s Disease

A  2018 study on mice found that CBG offers neuroprotection against inflammation-driven neuronal damage.

Also, a  2018 study was carried out on CBG’s effect on neuroinflammation (that is defined as an inflammatory response within the brain or spinal cord).

This in vitro study (which is defined as biological properties that are done in a test tube (i.e. in a glass vessel) rather than in a human or animal found CBG to be effective at reducing neuronal death, inflammation, and oxidative stress. meaning CBG restored cell anti-oxidant defense.

These results indicated the neuroprotective effects of CBG, which may be a potential treatment against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.

Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s disease is a rare and cruel hereditary disorder that progressively breaks down nerve cells in the brain.

Individuals with the disorder usually start to exhibit symptoms in their 30s or 40s and face physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive issues, and have symptoms that can be disruptive to everyday life.

Unfortunately, there is no current cure for Huntington’s disease, however, a promising study on mice with Huntington’s found that CBG was extremely active as a neuroprotectant.

The study concluded that CBG could make it a potential treatment for a variety of neurodegenerative disorders as well.

Multiple Sclerosis

A  2014 study in mice said that Phytocannabinoids (pCBs) that do not produce psychotropic effects, such as cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), have been shown to alleviate symptoms in a viral model of multiple sclerosis.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition that causes chronic inflammation of your digestive tract such as colitis and Crohn's disease. It affects millions of people across the globe and is incurable.

CBG appears to reduce the inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease, according to an animal study conducted in 2013.

Colon Cancer

Unsurprisingly, little research has looked at how CBG may help fight cancer. However, one study published in the PubMed journal Carcinogenesis  did find that CBG might reduce the growth of cancer cells and other tumors in rats.

Bladder Dysfunctions

In a 2015 study that investigated the effect of five different cannabinoids on bladder contractions, concluded that CBG shows the most promise at treating bladder dysfunctions.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

This dangerous bacterial infection is infamous for its ability to resist most antibiotic treatments and nearly 120,000 people in the U.S. contracted MRSA, and almost 20,000 died. 

In a recent 2020 study researchers uncover the hidden antibiotic potential of cannabis. CBG had the most promising activity against drug-resistant MRSA.

Anxiety 

Is CBG better than CBD for anxiety? The lesser-known CBG cannabinoid is touted by cannabis advocates to be even more effective than CBD for anxiety.

Animal studies back the strong anti-anxiety effect of using CBG to reduce anxiety. As of yet, there are no human studies on CBG.

But one study in the  British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBG had an analgesic effect on certain receptors, leading to anxiety reduction.

Appetite Stimulant

A study on rats in the PubMed journal Psychopharmacology found that CBG is a reliable appetite stimulant. The rats in the study polished off more than doubled their normal food intake and ate extra meals while taking CBG.

The appetite-boosting chemicals of CBG could be helpful for patients struggling to eat and maintain weight, such as individuals with HIV or cancer.

How to Take CBG

CBG Oil can be taken in a few different forms and delivery methods. There are usually benefits to each form of delivery, some providing faster absorption into the body than others.

In general, taking this compound will be similar to CBD.

Just like CBD, oils and tinctures are the most common way to take CBG because it reaches the bloodstream more quickly.

CBG, along with other cannabinoids, are extracted from hemp plants. Then, they’re mixed with a carrier oil (like MCT oil). 

How To Dose CBG

Unfortunately, there is no precise drop-by-drop instruction on how to properly dose CBG. Dosing CBD and CBG are personal from person to person as dosage can depend on a wide variety of factors.

Including age, health, underlying conditions, tolerance, weight, and desired results.

Only you can determine your ideal doses for CBG products. But the best rule of thumb is to start low and go slow, keep track of your experience in a journal, just like with CBD dosing.

Each brand will usually label in MG or a percentage of how much CBG is in the product. Always look for the product's recommended dose and start on the lower end of the spectrum and gradually build up until you reach your desired effects.

Keep in mind that taking CBG oil is a process that requires patience. This means that you shouldn’t expect to feel its effects after the first use.

And consistency is key. Make sure to take your dose regularly.

How Does CBG Oil Make You Feel

The effects of CBG do not make you feel high. CBG feels uplifting and energizing but also calming and soothing, especially when taken with CBD.

According to CBD American Shaman, it's said to give a feeling of energy and focus that is similar to the effects of coffee.

Some users report being able to focus on one task for longer periods, with increased levels of productivity.

CBG’s psychoactivity doesn’t induce psychotropic or intoxicating effects like THC or delta-8. Instead, it influences brain activity and alters mood and perception, which causes anxiety and stress reduction without your mental or physical state becoming impaired.

CBG can also help your digestive system to continue to feel like it’s functioning properly. In addition, many users report mood support from consistent CBG usage.

CBG Side Effects

Unfortunately at this time very little is known about the side effects of CBG oil or other forms of CBG.

So far, it seems to be well tolerated by rats, but there’s not enough research to say much about the potential side effects it might have on humans.

But keep in mind that just like any other medicine, vitamins, or supplements, CBG can have side effects, if consumed in huge doses.

Most common side effects of CBG are similar to CBD, including:

• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Appetite changes
• Diarrhea

Does It Interact With Any Medications

Again not much is known about how CBG might interact with over-the-counter or prescription medications, as well as vitamins or supplements.

If you take any kind of medication, it’s best to check with your healthcare provider before trying any CBG product. 

CBG VS CBD: Which is better?

Although these two compounds have a lot in common, they also have some differences that make each one of them unique.

As far as similarities are concerned, they both come from the cannabis plant, and they both function similarly within the endocannabinoid system.

As a general rule, CBG energizes your body and reinvigorates your mood and focus, while CBD is more of a relaxant capable of calming your mind and balancing your internal functions.

They also share similar benefits such as pain relief, anti-inflammation, and sleep promotion. 

CBD molecules communicate with CB2 cannabinoid receptors and these receptors connect to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) which reaches various muscles, organs, skin, eyes, and other biological systems, including the immune system.

CBG on the other hand also attaches to CB2 receptors in addition to CB1 receptors, which connect to our central nervous system (CNS) that controls most functions of the body and mind.

CBD and CBG both offer beneficial attributes individually. They also work together to enhance each other’s benefits allowing for the entourage effect.

The entourage effect is a theory that could completely change how you decide to consume CBG going forward. 

The theory proposes the idea that CBG is more effective when it's ingested with other cannabinoids (the chemical compounds made by the cannabis plant that unlock its many healing powers)at the same time. 

And research and customer feedback have shown that results improve dramatically when cannabinoids are taken together.

As far as which one is better, there’s not enough information to determine which is more effective. It’s up to you.

They both benefit the human body in different ways, listed above, but there are still many things scientists haven’t figured out yet.

CBG vs THC: How are they different?

The biggest difference between CBG and THC is intoxication or lack thereof. CBG is non-intoxicating and won’t induce a euphoric high, while THC will cause a significant euphoric high in most doses.

THC’s activation of your CB1 receptors triggers the psychological effects of a euphoric high, including mental impairment, excitement, happiness, and amplified pleasure.

With THC being the main psychoactive component in cannabis it can make it difficult for people taking THC who would like to drive, work, or generally stay functional. CBG, which is non-intoxicating, may offer alternatives.

Plus, the CBG cannabinoid and CBG flower may work better for people. Especially for those who might experience anxiety with high-THC cannabis or who need to be able to calmly focus throughout the day.

Choosing A High-Quality CBG Product To Purchase

Purchasing high-quality CBG products are simple and easy. All you need is a bit of guidance on what to look out for, especially if you’re looking for something to help treat pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, focus, or any other condition.

Check out our recommendations for the best CBG products.

Third-party testing — When purchasing CBG products, knowing your chosen company conducts third-party testing is vital. 

Third-party testing refers to products being analyzed by accredited, independent laboratories that ensure your products carry the correct quantities of CBG, CBD, and THC, as well as guarantee no contaminants are present in the extract and are safe.

Certifications — Alongside third-party testing, certifications from accredited and legitimate hemp agencies and organizations are essential.

The USDA and the US Hemp Authority have the most well-respected, highly sought-after certification programs.

Companies certified by these organizations show commitment and dedication to correct safety procedures and proper manufacturing practices, both of which are vital in an industry lacking regulatory oversight.

Hemp source — Hemp source is the location a company sources its hemp from. There are some hemp locations that are way better than others.

California, Oregon, Washington, and Kentucky are four of the best US states for hemp cultivation. Each of these states has a long-standing, well-established hemp pilot program and nearly a decade of experience cultivating the finest hemp plants.

Reviews — Reading other people’s reviews on products can help guide you on the effectiveness, quality, and reputation of company.

Note, though, that while you will most likely find several highly-recommended CBD brands online with mostly rave reviews, the reality is that CBD companies can never satisfy all the people all the time.

As such, be willing to overlook an occasional negative comment provided a shop gets mostly favorable ones.

On the other hand, if there are a lot of negative reviews, it might not be in your best interest to purchase from that brand.

Effective CBG Products We Highly Recommend

There are many CBG products on the market, but which one should you choose? Our CBG product recommendations are all verified as safe, clean, uncontaminated, and extremely effective.

1. NuLeaf Naturals CBG Full Spectrum Oil

We can’t recommend NuLeaf Naturals’ full-spectrum CBG oil enough. Available in unflavored 300, 900, and 1800mg strength options, each product is catered to your daily CBG requirements.

The whole-plant extract, which carries an abundance of valuable cannabinoids and terpenes, is sourced from high-quality hemp grown in the US. Each product is third-party tested and verified safe to use.

Best used for pain relief (especially neuropathy pain), an overall boost in mood, a reduction in anxiety, stress, or depression, and neuroprotection (an effect that may result in salvage, recovery, or regeneration of the nervous system, its cells, structure, and function).

2. Medterra CBG+CBD Full Spectrum Tincture

Medterra is a company we often recommend, particularly its true full-spectrum CBG + CBD oil, blending both cannabinoids with other revitalizing plant compounds, terpenes, and flavonoids.

Their 1:1 blend is ranked as one of the best CBG oils out there. The oil comes in two strength options: 1000mg and 2000mg.

The 1000 mg option is perfect for beginners experiencing mild pain, inflammation, anxiety, and stress, while the 2000mg is better for more moderate symptoms.

3. Extract Labs Cognitive Support CBG Softgels

Extract Labs’ full-spectrum CBG capsules carrying 33mg of CBG, and 33mg of CBD per capsule, alongside other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, including CBC, CBN, and <0.3% THC.

The capsules are manufactured in GMP-certified facilities and contain all-natural certified organic ingredients. Best used to support balance, focus, relieve tension, and general health and wellness.

Final Thoughts: CBG Benefits

CBG is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids extracted from cannabis plants. This compound has been getting a lot of attention recently, thanks to its many potential health benefits.

So of course you want to exactly what the CBG benefits are.

Several research findings from a variety of recent animal studies have reported CBG’s great potential.

Even though CBG benefits may hold promise to its many potential effects, however, the research around it is still pretty limited.

So it’s important to note that more research is needed to support the above claims when it comes to human subjects.

And not much is known about its side effects or how it might interact with certain medications.

It is always recommended that you consult with your physician before you add it to your daily routine. Along with being advised on any potential drug interactions.

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