Learn more about CBG, CBD, antibacterial, pain relief
While CBD and THC have been in the cannabis spotlight for many years now, other less prominent cannabinoids are beginning to gain popularity with users. One of those cannabinoids is CBG. If you’ve tried our HHemp Co flower or our CBD/CBG tincture from Extract Labs, then you may already be familiar with the benefits of CBG. But, what exactly does CBG do and how does it compare to CBD?
Like CBD, CBG is a non-intoxicating compound derived from hemp. Early studies on the compound show that it shares many of the same benefits as CBD, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties. But, as CBG is studied more and more, cannabis experts are finding that it has many unique benefits of its own.
What is CBG?
CBG (cannabigerol) was first isolated as a cannabinoid in 1964. However, formal research into the compound is limited and still in preclinical stages. But, as more U.S. states legalize cannabis, researchers are able to learn more about CBG’s benefits. Early studies suggest that CBG could be a medicinal game changer due to its analgesic (pain relieving) and antioxidant properties. Currently, CBG is also being studied for its effects on depression, cancer and bacterial infections.
CBG is sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid” because of CBGA (cannabigerolic acid). CBGA acts as a precursor to other prominent cannabinoids. As hemp plants mature, enzymes within the plants convert CBGA into THCA, CBDA and CBCA. Through decarboxylation (or simply sparking your flower with a lighter), those acids are converted into the cannabinoids that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, allowing them to work their magic.
Potential Benefits of CBG
While CBG is still being studied by cannabis experts, we know that it potentially has many therapeutic benefits.
- Pain Relief: like THC, it seems CBG also has effective pain-relieving properties, all without any psychoactive effects.
- Appetite Stimulation: unlike CBD, early studies have shown that CBG can act as an appetite stimulant. Again, similar to THC but without the psychoactive effects.
- Antibiotic Properties: CBG may have the ability to help combat certain bacterial infections. In a recent study, scientists tested several different cannabinoids against MRSA and CBG proved to be the most effective at working against the harmful bacteria.
- Cancer: In a recent rodent study, CBG was shown to inhibit the formation of skin melanoma cells. As more research is done, scientists are hoping that CBG can help inhibit the formation of abnormal cells and prevent tumor growth for various types of cancer.
How does CBG differ from CBD?
If you’re asking yourself, “should I switch from CBD to CBG?” There are many factors to consider. While both compounds are non-intoxicating and provide some of the same benefits, one may be more effective than the other depending on your specific health concerns.
For example, those living with general aches and pains, inflammation and general anxiety may want to stick to their CBD regiment until more research is done on CBG. But, for users suffering from chronic pain, nausea, cancer or other debilitating issues, CBG may be an effective solution. Another key difference is that CBD is readily available in many delivery methods, while CBG products are just starting to be stocked on dispensary shelves.
As always, please consult with your doctor and/or a cannabis expert before introducing anything new into your daily regiment. If you have questions about CBG or you’re ready to give it a try, stop by our Raleigh store to learn more or shop our CBG products online for same-day delivery.
