What is CBG
CBG (Cannabigerol) is one of over 100+ cannabinoids found in a cannabis plant. Its popularity is on the rise as more research is demonstrating the potential medical and therapeutic benefits of the compound without the psychoactive effect. As the cannabis plant matures, it produces CBGa (cannabigerolic), which is the acidic form of CBG. Enzymes break down CBGa to form two other main acids, CBDa and THCa. These will further synthesize into the major cannabinoids we know today as CBD and THC, respectively. CBGa is known as the precursor to all other cannabinoids as every cannabinoid is descended from CBGa. Any remaining CBGa that has not been synthesized into any minor cannabinoid is converted into CBG. For this reason, most strains contain only trace amounts of CBG. However, through special cross breeding and genetic manipulation, breeders have been able to obtain higher CBG concentrations. Higher concentrations of CBG would mean less THC and vice versa.
The Benefits of CBG
CBG may seem strikingly similar to CBD in that both are non-psychoactive cannabinoids and can alleviate pain. The difference comes in the way they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Unlike CBD, CBG directly binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors to establish its therapeutic properties. Early studies show that CBG’s abilities to directly bind to these receptors show great medical promise.
The Research
While more research is required to uncover the vast benefits of CBG, the following studies reveal the medical and therapeutic potential that lies ahead.
Appetite Stimulant
Glaucoma Treatment
Colon Cancer Inhibitor
Huntington’s Disease Treatment
Immune Disease Treatment
Decrease Inflammation