5 Top Benefits of CBG

You’re likely to have heard of CBD by now, but what is CBG?Cannabigerol, or CBG for short, is a type of cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Currently, there are over 80 known cannabinoids have been identified from this plant. CBG is one of them! 

While THC and CBD have gained lots of attention lately, CBG is another cannabinoid gaining traction thanks to its many benefits. The acidic form of CBG, known as CBGA, is often referred to as the “mother” cannabinoid, as all other cannabinoids derive from this as a starting point.

CBG is found in the cannabis plant, however, it is found in small quantities. For reference, only 1% of CBG can be found within a strain of the plant. In contrast, other cannabinoids are much more independent. CBD is found at levels closer to 20 to 25%, while THC is found at levels of 25 to 30%.

CBG is not psychoactive, so it will not produce the same effects as THC. Though it is like CBD, both have individual properties and effects. Research suggests CBG may be good for its antibacterial, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. In contrast, CBD may be more beneficial for mood disorders seeking antidepressant or antipsychotic effects.

How Is CBG Made?

As CBG is only found in limited quantities, products with CBG are harder to come by. This also contributes to their cost, as they are a hot commodity! The process of creating CBG involves using young cannabis plants, as they generally contain more of the substance as opposed to fully-grown adult plants.

Over the next few years, as research advances, CBG may become more widespread in its availability. For now, you may find CBG in certain consumer products.

CBG is often found in consumer products as oils or infused in edible products. For example, Honeybeez Hemp-Infused Honey products feature CBG extract infused into a delicious honey product. See our product offerings to learn more.

5 Top Benefits of CBG

Recent research has suggested a plethora of health benefits be gained by using CBG. Human research is limited on CBG, though various animal studies have suggested some of the following benefits. Some of the potential benefits of CBG include:

1. Support Stress Responses

Much like CBD, CBG can help people manage their stress better. CBG is thought to work via a human neurotransmitter, known as GABA. Increased levels of GABA help promote relaxation, thereby helping to regulate the stress response. 

In addition, researchers have found that CBG is a potent 5-HT1A serotonin receptor antagonist. But what does this big-name mean? This means the CBG may have the potential to inhibit your brain’s ability to uptake serotonin, resulting in better stress response and overall mood.

2. Eye Health and Glaucoma

A study conducted on animals suggested CBG could have powerful effects in treating certain eye conditions, such as Glaucoma. In this study, researchers were excited to find that CBG relieved eye pressure and helped Glaucoma patients. They also found it enhanced the nutrition that the eye received. 

Maintaining a healthy level of intraocular pressure can help prevent the development of certain eye conditions.

3. Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammatory conditions are on the rise across the U.S. One type of inflammatory condition, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may benefit from CBG usage. A study conducted on animals suggested that CBG can target inflammation. This study looked at mice with Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease. As many medical diseases like heart disease and Type 2 Diabetes are linked to inflammation in the body, CBG may have further widespread usage in upcoming years.

4. Cancer-Fighting Properties

The world of cancer research is a complex and ever-evolving field. One study, conducted on rats with Colon cancer, found that CBG may help limit or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. In this research, CBG worked by blocking the receptors that cause the growth of cancer cells.

5. Enhance Focus and Mood

CBG has great potential for neuroprotective benefits. Some users report an enhanced feeling of alertness or enhanced mood when using CBG. Though more research is needed, CBG has great potential to expand in this realm. Research has suggested that its neurogenesis capabilities can help enhance the growth of new brain cells, which may suggest the enhanced focus or mood users report when using CBG.