What is CBG? A Beginner's Guide to Cannabigerol

CBG is a non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid found in hemp and marijuana plants. It has been referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because every other cannabinoid starts as CBG. However, as the plant matures, a process called decarboxylation occurs, and it eventually converts into other compounds.

CBG and CBD not only sound alike, but they also share the aspect of non-psychoactivity. In other words, neither one of these compounds will "make you high."

Still, there are differences between the two. For one, CBG has a unique chemical formula, meaning it does not have the same arrangement of atoms. As a result, it interacts with the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the body's endocannabinoid system differently than CBD.

The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is a network of chemical messengers and receptors that regulates essential bodily functions like sleep, hunger, pain perception, and more. Usually, endocannabinoids like anandamide will be the chemicals doing the... messaging. However, phytocannabinoids from cannabis plants (like CBG) are also able to interact with the ECS and produce various effects.

Like any cannabinoid, CBG can incite an array of effects but keep in mind, our list below is not guaranteed. Depending on the amount you take and consumption method, you may respond differently than others. With that said, cannabis enthusiasts have reported feeling:

Some have suggested that CBD and CBG have similar effects, but with CBG, it is more pronounced. All in all, if you have enjoyed CBD in the past, CBG may be worth giving a try!

Several recent scientific studies suggest that this cannabinoid has therapeutic potential from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. More evidence is necessary to substantiate these claims, but as cannabis research continues to evolve, CBG's role in a variety of applications seems promising.

Without the acidic form of CBG, known as CBGA, we would not have the products that we have grown to love because CBGA is the chemical precursor for well-known cannabinoids, Delta-9 THC, and CBD. But this transition doesn’t happen overnight.

As the plant begins to grow, enzymes will slowly convert CBGA into cannabinoid acids. Some include:

The concentration of CBGA is at its highest during the early stages of the plant's development. Still, as the plant continues to grow, CBGA is converted into other acidic forms until it reaches maturity. And just like other cannabinoids, if you draw out CBGA and apply heat to it, it will transform into CBG. You can do this by putting it in an oven, lighter, or by using a vaporizer.

CBG is naturally produced in young hemp plants, but as the plant develops, it starts to convert into other cannabinoids. With CBG production in mind, hemp growers have had to choose—do they halt hemp’s natural growth process to gain a higher yield of CBG but a low concentration of other compounds?

The downside of this method is the amount of plant material it takes to achieve CBG production, and growers miss out on drawing out other compounds. Instead, some cultivators harvest hemp after it reaches maturity because it is more economically viable to produce not only CBG but also CBD and Delta-9 THC.

There are some instances of farmers that cross-breed with different genetics to achieve a higher concentration of CBG while still maintaining additional cannabinoid production.

CBG can be found in many different products. Some include CBG hemp flower, tinctures, and even edibles. But if you’re looking for a product with a mix of cannabinoids, a good place to start is broad-spectrum CBD. Within this mixture, you will have a variety of cannabis-derived compounds that are believed to offer the Entourage Effect. This theory states that a blend of cannabinoids will provide greater benefits than an isolated compound.

Whichever consumption method you choose, remember to have the tools you need. If you plan to purchase CBG flower, make sure you have an instrument or pre-rolls. But if you would rather keep it simple, you can buy tinctures or edibles. Tinctures and edibles are wonderful for those looking to have convenience and a user-friendly experience.

While we don't offer isolated CBG products, our CBGA + CBDA oil tincture features the aforementioned "mother cannabinoid," CBGA, among a proprietary blend of hemp-derived compounds and organic MCT oil from coconuts in a natural medium. Consider adding a drop of our specially formulated cannabis tincture to your daily routine to experience the relaxing synergy of cannabis compounds.

When it comes to hemp products, THC and CBD reign over everything else, but as CBG continues to make its way to the surface, there is no doubt that it too, will reach the top.

For those looking to try CBG, remember to do your research and consult your doctor to determine if it is the right fit for you. Until next time, happy exploring, and mind your mind!