CBG – The Dark Horse of the Cannabinoid Family

A cannabis plant is nature’s pack of organic compounds that have outstanding health effects. It contains more than 400 plant chemicals, including cannabinoids and terpenes. CBD and THC are often the focus for scientists and researchers around the world.

However, there is another cannabinoid that possesses a great health profile.

We are talking about CBG – the dark horse of the cannabinoid family!

Despite being around for decades, CBG rose to fame in the last few years. Researchers endorse it for its stunning effects on human health. Yet, we know little about this compound. 

So let’s discuss what science says about cannabigerol and find out what makes it so unique.

What is CBG?

CBG, the short form of cannabigerol, is one of the cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. You can call it the mother of cannabinoids because it serves as the precursor of all other compounds in the form of cannabigerol acid. 

CBG is present in minute quantities; the cannabis plant contains only 1% of CBG compared to 20-25% of CBD and 25-30% of THC. 

As much of CBG converts to CBD and THC, so if you want CBG, you need to harvest the plant earlier. Its scarcity makes CBG products quite rare and expensive.

Cannabigerol is a non-psychoactive compound like CBD that does not affect your thinking. Instead, it works by binding to the special receptors in the body. There are two cannabinoids receptors:

• CB1 receptors – present in the nervous system
• CB2 receptors – present in the body’s immune system and other parts.

Cannabigerol attaches to both to produce multiple positive effects such as:

• Lowering cholesterol
• Reducing Swelling
• Protecting the brain

Health Benefits of CBG

Many cannabinoids, including CBG, have health benefits. 

• People are now using CBG to enhance their mood and alleviate pain. 
• Its non-intoxicating nature makes it attractive for people wishing to gain weight. 
• People take CBG for various neurologic disorders, abnormal levels of cholesterol or fats, and other conditions. 

But note that there is much research on CBG in humans. We have animal studies vouching for its health benefits. We cannot say anything with certainty until we have sufficient medical evidence from studies. However, CBG is quite effective for providing relief against several conditions like:

1. Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

CBG has anti-inflammatory properties. A study showed CBG and its derivatives are effective against inflammation and pain. IBS is a group of digestive disorders that cause swelling in the gut. Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system to fight against IBS. However, despite the anecdotal evidence, we need further research to declare CBG as medicine for this condition. 

2. Bacterial Infections

Several cannabinoids possess antibacterial activity, but CBG is the most potent against resistant bacterial strains.  MRSA infections are challenging to treat, but CBG shows promising results in tackling such stubborn diseases. In a study, CBG slowed down the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and showed efficacy against gram-negative bacteria. 

3. Huntington Disease

CBG is good for your brain and nerves. It is effective against diseases that cause nerve damage like Huntington’s disease. A rat study concluded tht CBD and CBG in combination have potential neuroprotective properties. CBG promotes motor function and helps carrying out daily activities with ease. 

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages your optic nerve causing irreversible blindness and very high pressure in your eyes. Animal studies show that CBG may be effective in treating glaucoma. CBG reduces the intraocular pressure and increases the outflow of aqueous humor, the fluid in the eyes that bathes and nourishes the eyes and maintains pressure.

5. Cancer

The non-psychoactive cannabigerol may also be effective in the treatment of cancer. A recent study showed positive results in this respect.  CBG interacted with specific targets involved in cancer production.  A recent study concluded that  we can consider CBG in the cure and prevention of colon cancer. 

6. Cachexia or Wasting Syndrome

CBG stimulates appetite and can be helpful in chronic illnesses that cause weight loss and weakness.  Cannabinoids have long been used to boost appetite and increase feeding rates. A recent rat study showed that CBG triggered the appetite and diet intake with no side effects. However, the study does not recommend or endorse CBG use for cachexia and other disorders. We have to wait for further studies.

Future of Cannabigerol

Now that you know the benefits of CBG, it is likely that it may overshine other cannabinoids in the future. Currently, cannabigerol research is in infancy, but the results of the studies concluded up till now are promising. Thus, it is likely to be all over the markets once we fully understand its effects. 

Moreover, it is also possible to use CBG in tandem with other cannabinoids. Cannabinoids show more pronounced effects when used in combination – commonly called the entourage effect.

References

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23415610/
• https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.120.000340
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7279038/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25269802/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27503475/