While CBD (cannabidiol) is a superstar in the cannabis world, CBG (cannabigerol) is a less-common cannabinoid. As the popularity of CBD skyrockets, CBG products have remained largely under the radar.
So, what exactly is CBG, and how does it compare to CBD? Why is CGB called the “mother of all cannabinoids”? In this blog post, we’ll look more closely at this lesser-known compound and compare both these cannabinoids.
What is CBG, and How Is It Different From CBD?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is the precursor or starting compound for around a hundred cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD[1]. Initially, CBG is the only cannabinoid present in a young hemp or cannabis plant (cannabis sativa). This is why it is sometimes called the “mother of all cannabinoids.”
As the plant matures, most of the CBG is converted into other cannabinoids. That’s why CBD and THC are more abundant, and mature plants have smaller quantities of CBG.
The primary difference between CBG and CBD lies in their molecular structures, which result in different interactions with the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Studies using rats suggest CBD and CBG also affect appetites differently as they affect the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid receptors. According to one study, CBG increased the appetite of rats and doubled their total food intake[2]. On the other hand, CBD was found to reduce appetite and body weight in test subjects[3]. More research is necessary to determine how these cannabinoids affect human appetite.
Is CBG Legal?
CBG is a form of cannabinoid that is legal as long as it fulfills the requirements of the Exempted Product Criteria in Regulation 2 of MDR 2001 or the definition of a CBPM Schedule 2 to the MDR 2001[4].
The Exempted Product Criteria in Regulation 2 of MDR 2001 regulation says that cannabinoid products can be legally available to the public if they have less than 0.2% of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and no more than 1 mg of THC per container, which means they are not psychoactive.
Cannabinoid products could also fall under Cannabis-Based Product for Medicinal Use in Humans, meaning Specialist Doctors must prescribe them.
Because cannabinoids are an emerging market, it’s important to note that the regulation is constantly changing.
Always check the latest policies and ask for government-issued certification from your supplier when purchasing cannabinoids.
Which One is More Available in the Market?
Both cannabinoids are available in the market and can be found in many forms, including tinctures, capsules, gummies, edibles, and topical products.
The general wellness benefits of CBD are now widely known, and CBD is more readily available because of its abundance. The compound accounts for 20% of the plant’s composition, while CBG is only 1%.
CBG’s scarcity makes it more expensive than CBD. You will also find that CBG generally has lower doses compared to CBD. Nevertheless, you can still purchase both products in the UK but be prepared to spend a little more for CBG.
Benefits of CBG and CBD
Both CBG and CBD have been found to have potential benefits ranging from improved overall wellness, helping promote a sense of calm and relaxation, and promoting better sleep cycles.
Which One Should I Choose?
When choosing between CBG and CBD, it ultimately depends on personal preference. You may find that CBD helps in one area while CBG helps in others. It’s also important to consider that CBG is less abundant than CBD, making it less available and more expensive. However, this is changing as non-CBD cannabinoids become more common.
Final Thoughts
CBG and CBD products have potential benefits with minimum side effects and no psychoactivity. Although both are cannabinoids, they have different effects on your body due to their chemical structures.
You can take them individually or together to take advantage of the entourage effect.
Note that most research on CBD and CBG is based on preclinical studies, so always check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking on a new wellness regimen.
Live your best life with CBD products:
- Buy CBD oils
- Buy CBD gummies
- Buy CBD capsules
- Buy CBD creams
- Buy CBD patches
- Buy CBD vape pens
- Buy CBD vape juice
References
[1] The Pharmacological Case for Cannabigerol
Nachnani, Rahul et al.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33168643/
[2] Cannabigerol is a novel, well-tolerated appetite stimulant in pre-satiated ratsBrierley et al.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5021742/
[3] Effects of Cannabidiol on Appetite and Body Weight: A Systematic ReviewPinto and Martel
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9525229/
[4] Drug licensing factsheet: cannabis, CBD and other cannabinoids
