CBG vs. CBD: The Differences You Need to Know

Cannabis plants contain more than 100 cannabinoids (that we know of). Although they are all remarkably similar in form and function, each holds unique characteristics that lead to their nuanced effects.

In this vast universe of compounds, two are worth a closer comparison: CBG vs. CBD. Both work within the endocannabinoid system to produce mellow, calming effects, but there are differences worth noting before you try them for yourself.

From origins to effects to cannabinoid blends, we get into all the details of CBD vs. CBG below.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the more famous cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is typically derived from hemp, a legal variety of cannabis that produces very low delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content- namely, less than 0.3%. 

Yet, unlike this other renowned cannabinoid, CBD isn’t psychoactive. It doesn’t produce any heightened or euphoric effects. Rather, its calming and relaxing nature is more body-focused. 

Like all cannabinoids, CBD produces its effects when it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. But whereas THC binds directly to one of the endocannabinoid receptors, CBD affects multiple systems in a more ancillary way. Some known channels it works through include cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), serotonin receptors, and inflammatory pathways.

Because CBD operates through all these channels, but without any of the psychoactive effects related to THC, people have flocked to it for relief. Managing daily stress, bedtime routines, and physical discomfort are all reasons why people choose this particular cannabinoid.

Cannabigerol (CBG) is yet another non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Considered a minor cannabinoid, it is often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it is the precursor to more well-known compounds like THC and CBD. Cannabis plants first produce CBG, which gradually transforms into other cannabinoids as the plant matures.

Like CBD, CBG doesn’t produce any intensely euphoric effects and works within the body's endocannabinoid system indirectly. Research suggests that CBG works through other receptors and neurotransmitters like GABA, although researchers are still getting to know CBG’s exact mechanisms of action.

While CBD and CBG share many characteristics, some feel that CBG's effects are more pronounced. All in all, if you have enjoyed CBD in the past, CBG may be worth trying!

On the surface, CBG vs CBD are very similar. Both are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, and both are derived primarily from hemp. Yet, it's worth understanding their nuances and how they work within the greater cannabinoid universe.

First, each cannabinoid has a distinct molecule structure. Specifically, CBG has two more hydrogen atoms than CBD.

Second, they have different boiling points, which you should pay attention to if you vape these compounds. If you want to target a specific cannabinoid, certain fancier vaporizers will let you dial in the temperature settings accordingly. It could even come into play should you plan on incorporating these compounds into your culinary adventures or hot drinks (for example, adding a drop of tincture to coffee). 

CBD’s boiling point is 320– 56°F (160–180°C), and CBG’s is slightly lower at 302°F (150°C).

CBD and CBG both work within the endocannabinoid system, but neither has what scientists explain as a “strong affinity” to either of the main endocannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). 

Let's start with CBD. Technically, it's a “negative allosteric modulator,” which just means it doesn't directly bind to the receptor like THC does. Instead, it changes how the receptor functions, at least momentarily. It seems to reduce the receptor's responsiveness and dampen the effects of cannabinoid signaling.

Although little is known about how CBG functions within the system, it has a relatively low affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Compared with CBD, the mother cannabinoid is thought to have a 5-fold lower affinity to the primary endocannabinoid receptors. But there is evidence it works via other channels, like the α2-adrenergic receptor, which is one of the receptors responsible for our fight-or-flight response. It also has a relationship with our serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, which helps regulate mood and anxiety.

Although breeders are actively working to create new hemp strains containing higher concentrations of many minor cannabinoids, CBG included, we can still safely say that hemp produces CBD above all other compounds. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t source CBG from hemp, but it’s typically found in extremely low concentrations at harvest time – sometimes, less than one percent by weight. In contrast, hemp can have up to a 20 percent concentration of CBD. 

The good news is that through advanced extraction and distillation techniques, it's possible to work with hemp to derive any number of minor cannabinoids, CBG included. It's also possible to schedule harvests for peak CBG concentrations before the plant's CBG content has morphed into CBD. 

For hemp growers looking to focus on CBG, there are two options. As explained above, the first is to harvest the plant before it matures when the highest levels of CBG are present.

The second option is to harvest once the plants have reached maturity. Although the crop will contain less CBG, it will hold a variety of other cannabinoids. Through processing, the individual cannabinoids may be extracted. 

Both CBD and CBG are legal, at least if derived from hemp plants. This is thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp production, sale, and consumption. Hemp and all hemp-derived goods like CBD and CBG are legal at the federal level, provided they contain less than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight.

However, every state has its own legislation regarding hemp-derived cannabinoids. So, we always recommend researching the rules in your jurisdiction before diving in.