By now everyone knows what CBD is, but have you heard of CBG? CBG is the shortened form for the cannabinoid also known as cannabigerol. Just like CBD, it has been reported to offer a whole host of medicinal benefits from reducing inflammation to slowing the growth of cancer cells. It has been gaining popularity as another non-intoxicating cannabinoid with significant therapeutic effects. On the surface CBG may sound a lot like CBD however there are some key differences when looking a little deeper. Read on as we dive into what exactly is CBG, what are the benefits of CBG, and what forms does CBG come in and how can it be used?
What is CBG?
As previously mentioned CBG is short for cannabigerol. CBG is what is known as a precursor cannabinoid as it is the basis for THC, CBD, and CBC. It begins its life as CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) which is then reacted upon with specific enzymes to create THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), and CBCA (cannabichromenic acid). These are then converted into THC, CBD, and CBC through the process of decarboxylation. The composition of enzymes present determines the overall cannabinoid makeup of the mature plant. When the plant is mature CBGA is only present in exceptionally low quantities, typically under 1%. However, many growers have begun to experiment with growing hemp that does not convert the CBGA into anything else resulting in CBG after the decarboxylation and extraction process.
Benefits of CBG
CBG has been shown to work directly with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the body. This contrasts with how CBD works as CBD has been shown to indirectly work with the endocannabinoid system not directly through the receptors. This has led many to believe that CBG has even stronger therapeutic effects than CBD. Research remains relatively sparse on the effects of CBG, especially when compared to the much more researched cannabinoids like THC and CBD, however, some studies have shown promise. In particular, studies have been conducted showing that CBG is effective for treating glaucoma, decreasing inflammation, fighting Huntington’s Disease, inhibiting tumor growth, and killing drug-resistant bacteria. In addition, many users of CBG have reported many of the same everyday benefits of CBD. It has been said to help with anxiety, depression, and chronic pain for the average person.
Forms of CBG
Just like CBD, CBG is now offered in many forms from CBG hemp flower to CBG isolate and everything in between. Let us explore what forms it comes in, how to use it, and why it might be just right for you below.
CBG Hemp Flower
CBG hemp flower is the rawest and purest form of CBG you can obtain. It is then trimmed and cured flowers of the cannabis plant that are rich in CBG. These can be used for a multitude of reasons by the end-user. One popular method of use is simply just smoking them in a pipe or a joint. Another popular and similar method albeit a bit cleaner is the use of a vaporizer. CBG hemp flowers can also be used for at-home extractions using oil or butter which can then be added to your edibles, soaps, or lotions. Or alcohol can be used for extraction creating homemade tinctures. The possibilities with CBG hemp flower are endless and it is the perfect form for both beginners and veterans alike.
CBG Edibles
CBG is also found in a variety of edible forms just like CBD. It is easy to find CBG gummies, CBG capsules, and CBG tinctures from many suppliers online. Consuming CBG is popular especially for beginners as it is easy, effective, and discreet. The effects of edibles also last much longer than other methods for those looking for even stronger benefits.
CBG Topicals
CBG topicals are another method of CBG consumption that is gaining traction. These include things like CBG bath bombs, CBG salves, CBG lotions, and CBG balms. Users of CBG topicals report they are extremely effective for dealing with localized pain and inflammation. They have also been said to help with skin conditions such as redness, acne, and dryness. CBG topicals are perfect for those looking for younger, more beautiful skin or targeting a specific ache or pain.
CBG Concentrates
CBG is concentrated in many forms just like other cannabinoids. It can be found as CBG isolate, CBG wax, CBG crumbles, CBG distillate, and many more. These concentrates can be used in many of the same ways as traditional CBD or THC concentrates that users are already familiar with. This includes using them in a dab rig or dab pen, adding them to your favorite food or drink, and mixing them into topicals to create potent homemade remedies. Many of them can also just be taken as is. CBG concentrates are perfect for those looking to strictly control their dosing by either micro-dosing or macro dosing.
