The difference between CBD and CBG is not limited to just that one letter. In fact, Cannabigerol (CBG) interacts completely different with our body’s own cannabinoid system than Cannabidiol (CBD) - from the same hemp plant - does. But how is that exactly, and what effects can you expect from CBG oil? Discover what scientific research has found about that until now:
What is Cannabigerol (CBG) from CBG oil?
Just like Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid from hemp. A very important one, might we add. Considering that CBG is the precursor of two of the most prevalent cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis plants. That means that both CBD and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) at some point were CBG-molecules, before they’re eventually converted into another cannabinoid in the plant. Just like we explained in our previous blog: ‘What is CBG Oil? Discover the difference between CBD and CBG'
This also means that Cannabigerol generally exists in higher concentrations in early harvested hemp plants. After all, most of it is already converted into CBD or THC in plants that are ready for harvest. That’s why you’ll only find small amounts of the substance in the majority of CBD products available, in support of the entourage effect. However, CBG oil can have a positive impact on our well-being, just like CBD oil can. Though Cannabigerol does that differently than Cannabidiol from CBD oil does…
CBG’s effect on the ECS
CBD is known for inhibiting the break down of our ‘happiness molecules’, like anandamide and 2-AG. These body’s own cannabinoids are signaling substances (neurotransmitters) that belong to our endocannabinoid system (ECS). Proven by a growing body of research, this is the reason behind CBD’s efficacy in the body. As CBD is able to bring more balance to your hormonal state, giving your body the chance to restore itself better. It is also the main reason behind CBD’s uplifting effects, for example. Though CBG appears to have another interaction with our endocannabinoid system.
Relaxing effects of CBG
Because where CBD focuses on delaying the breakdown of 2-AG and anandamide; CBG oil on the other hand inhibits the breakdown of GABA. This is an amino acid we naturally produce as well, and is mainly responsible for taming certain stimuli in the brain. Accordingly, GABA helps regulate mobility, eyesight and a number of emotional responses; like anxiety and stress.
This CBG and GABA-induced relaxation is mainly physical, at first. Considering it helps reduce muscle tension and in general helps reduce extreme nerve-activity; possibly resulting in a feeling of rest and relaxation in the body.
Though according to research, CBG is also able to help regulate the fight- or flight reaction, which the human body naturally activates in stressful situations. However, in some cases the body activates this stress unnecessarily - possibly causing chronic stress and anxiety disorders as a result. Luckily, Cannabigerol is able to modulate the α2-adrenergicreceptor, reducing the release of the arousing neurotransmitter norepinephrin or noradrenalin causing the stress. In other words, CBG oil could calm the body and mind by the unique effect on these receptors of the ECS.
CBG oil effects in the body
Besides, there are a few other properties of Cannabigerol being researched by science. For example, there are studies claiming that the cannabinoid might have painkilling properties. That might have to do with the muscle and nerve-relaxing results of CBG’s interaction with the receptors explained above. Though what also might play a part, are the substance’s anti-inflammatory properties. Because other research shows that CBG has strong anti-inflammatory powers; which could possibly prevent oxidative stress too. This is also proven in another study, which mainly focused on CBG’s possible anti-inflammatory properties in the digestive system. Showing promising effects of battling Crohn’s disease in the intestines.
Moreover, CBG appears to have neuroprotective properties as well. Offering promising possibilities in delaying the onset and development of Huntington’s disease, for example. Though we have to note these are preliminary results based on mice. So it is absolutely no guarantee that CBG oil might help Huntington’s. But it will definitely not harm!
Other possible results of CBG
And if you thought that CBG’s possible positive effects stop there, you’re in for a treat. Because Cannabigerol can also be very useful ON the body, instead of only in it. For example, research shows CBG might help slow down excessive cell proliferation in the skin. Meaning that Cannabigerol could be helpful in treating psoriasis and eczema; and could help slow down the skin’s aging.
Furthemore, we’ve seen studies claiming that CBG might help treat certain types of cancer. The use of CBG appeared to be specifically useful in slowing down the development of skin cancer and colon cancer; in a number of laboratory experiments. So this is not yet tested on humans and there is absolutely no guarantee that it will cure any type of cancer, at all.
Lastly, we found the antibacterial properties of CBG noteworthy. Because according to scientific research, Cannabigerol works extremely well against bad bacteria. So well, that it could even help treat the feared and ‘untreatable’ MRSA-bacteria, if we can believe the research paper.
Like most research regarding the active ingredients in hemp though, the aforementioned are mainly performed ‘in vitro’ studies done in petri dishes. Or experiments with using live rats and mice, at best. The information above therefor cannot be used as medical advice and is not intended to replace it. It does show the need for more research on humans - so that this substance from hemp gets the recognition it deserves.
What effects from CBG Oil would you benefit from?
