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CBG vs. CBD: The Differences You Need to Know

CBG vs. CBD: The Differences You Need to Know

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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.

What Is CBD?

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.

What Is CBG?

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!

The Differences: CBG vs. CBD

hemp plants side by side

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.

Chemical Properties

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).

Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System

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.

Concentration in Hemp

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. 

Growing CBG vs. 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. 

Legality of CBD vs. CBG

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.

Which Is Better for You?

assorted cbd products on a table: capsules, tinctures, oils, and leaves of a hemp plant.

Asking if CBD vs. CBG is better for you is sort of like asking if apples or oranges are better for you. These cannabinoids are remarkably similar in structure, effects, and function. 

CBD is the more popular cannabinoid, if only because it's the most widely available. It’s loved for its relaxing, calming, and relieving effects, with many people taking it daily to support sleep, mood, and balance.

CBG, on the other hand, is less known but could become just as popular with time and more availability. Its effects are very comparable to those of CBD: mellow, relaxing, and calming. Interestingly, many people say that CBG’s soothing abilities are more pronounced than that of CBD. 

Can CBD and CBG Be Taken Together?

cbg and cbd tincture on a table with leaves

The beauty of cannabinoids is that not only are they safe to combine, but they are often better when combined. This is thanks to a theory known as the Entourage Effect. Made famous by cannabis researcher Ethan B Russo, this theory describes how cannabinoids, in combination, are more effective than the sum of their parts.

This is because cannabinoids all work through the same network of receptors, but each works a little differently. For example, both CBD and CBG are calming cannabinoids, but they are each calming in their own unique way. Taken together, they provide a double layer of soothing effects, which can feel stronger than if you were to try them in isolation.

If CBD and CBG are better together, why not give it a try?  Our CBDA+CBGA Tincture has 600 mg each of CBD and CBG. But it also contains 600mg of CBDA and CBGA, which are the acidic versions of these cannabinoids. All four of these mellow cannabinoids blend together for gentle, soothing relief.

For a big serving of calm, try CBD, CBG, or a combination of both, and until next time, Mind Your Mind.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.

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