CBD, THC and now... CBG? CBG (Cannabigerol) is a cannabinoid found in most cannabis plants in low concentrations. It's recently become a major topic of discussion as researchers are hopeful that it may provide a range of benefits similar to CBD. But what is it, how is it different and why? Keep reading to discover how this compound, which has also been referred to as "the stem cell cannabinoid" works in the body.
What is CBG?
CBG, aka Cannabigerol, is a chemical compound known as a cannabinoid, found in low concentrations in most cannabis plants. There are a few strains of industrial hemp like The White and Stem Cell which have been bred to express higher levels of CBG, but it's typically nowhere near as concentrated as CBD or THC. CBG can be found stored in the trichome heads (the tiny crystalline structures on leaves, buds and flowers) along with other terpenes and cannabinoids. The reason CBG concentration is typically so low is because most CBG is converted into other cannabinoids before it's time to harvest.
CBG vs CBD
Those who use both CBG and CBD report similar effects from both cannabinoids. There may not be one reason to use CBG over CBD, but rather, they may work conjunctively with one another. Maybe you use CBD on an everyday basis and you occasionally need an extra boost to your endocannabinoid system. CBG makes a great addition to your suite of beneficial plant compounds.
Though they are very similar, CBG and CBD interact with our bodies differently. CBD tends to interact more with the nervous and immune systems, while CBG may have a greater impact in the digestive tract, interacting with our gut flora. CBG also interacts with our system of GABA receptors, which is a neuronal signaling framework that works to stimulate nervous system activity. There may be some linkage between CBG, our gut, and our brain, especially when you consider recent discoveries linking neurotransmitter production to gut health.
As we hinted at above, you can think of CBG as essentially a stem cell from which all other cannabinoid compounds are formed, including CBD. One of the reasons why it's hard to find in higher concentrations is because it quickly converts to other cannabinoids before it's seen or detected.
What are the benefits of CBG?
The benefits of CBG, just like CBD, can vary greatly from person to person. However, considering the way CBG interacts with our body, it may be a viable option for easing unpleasant digestive issues. Some people with issues such as IBS and SIBO may want to consider using CBG to promote wellness in the gut or to support nutritional-uptake issues. CBG's interaction with GABA receptors give researchers hope that it could one day be effective in assisting neurological issues, such as seizures. Similarly, the slightly different chemical structure may make it a good option to try if CBD is not effective enough for you.
Final thoughts on CBG
CBG is new and unique. More research needs to be conducted before we can fully understand it's potential benefits and applications. For the moment, it remains a solid option to consider for supplementing your CBD intake and further promoting the entourage effect in your existing CBD routine. Why not take a quick look at our high-quality 1500mg CBG oil and see if it would be a good option for you?