Benefits of CBG (Cannabigerol)

Posted on Apr 24, 2020

About CBG

Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of more than 120 identified cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant.  It was first discovered in 1964 as a component of hashish. It was later discovered in that CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) is the first cannabinoid formed in plants–cannabis’ first expression.  CBGA is then converted into other cannabinoids, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), leaving about 1% cannabigerol in the plant. 

cbga

Figure 1: CBG-A is the chemical precursor of THCA, CBDA, and CBCA (not shown). Enzymes within cannabis turn CBGA into either THCA or CBDA, which can be subsequently decarboxylated (“activated”) by light or heat energy to create THC or CBD. (Amy Phung/Leafly)

Our seeds are uniquely bred to contain 12 – 18% CBG

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. Research into its medical properties is currently ongoing. It has not been as thoroughly studied as THC or CBD, but current research is proving to innate health benefits of CBG.

Effects of Cannabigerol

Cannabigerol is non-intoxicating as it is non-psychoactivce, but it does help to create a synergy by balancing the effects of THC with other cannabinoids.

In general, cannabinoids exert their effects by contacting their own receptors, which are present all over the body.  CBG acts on both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, but its effect on both receptors is extremely weak compared to the effect of THC.

Anandamide is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the body and helps regulate bodily fuctions like sleep, appetite and memory.  CBG affects the body by causing an increase in anandamide levels.  Anandamide, just like THC, acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors to produce its effects.

CBG is also known to antagonize the serotonin receptors, meaning it may have a role to play in the treatment of depression.

“Research is ongoing at the University at Buffalo on the efficacy of medical marijuana in the treatment of depression caused by stress. The research is focused on endocannabinoids and has shown that chronic stress may inhibit the production of endocannabinoids by the brain. This according to the study, may lead to depression-like behavior. Exposing the system to cannabinoids may facilitate the restoration of optimal function, thus easing depression symptoms.”

Because CBG is able to ac upon the nervous system without any psychotic effects, the benefits and medical use of CBG are currently of great interest to researchers.

Health Benefits of CBG

CBG research is ongoing, but early results show CBG has the potential to treat a variety of different conditions.

CBG for Pain Relief Cannabis is popular for its pain relieving properties. One study found 97% of patients using cannabis were using it for chronic pain. And a study by the National Academy of Sciences reported conclusively that cannabis is an effective treatment for pain. This pain relief is often attributed to THC. But studies on CBG and CBGA suggest these both provide pain relieving benefits, as well.
CBG as an Anti-Inflammatory A potential use for both CBG and CBGA is as an anti-inflammatory agent. Scientists believe that these compounds may offer relief to those with inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease. One study looked at CBG’s effect on IBD specifically. Scientists induced colitis in mice and looked for inflammatory markers. The researchers found that giving the mice CBG relieved their inflammation. They suggested human trials following this early indicator of success.
CBG for Cancer CBG may help by blocking the receptors that cause cancer cells to grow. One study looked at colon cancer in rats and concluded that CBG might reduce the growth of cancer cells and other tumors.
CBG for Glaucoma A study conducted in 1990 has shown that when treated with CBG, animals with glaucoma had a 2-3 times increase in their aqueous flow. An increase in aqueous flow can minimize the intraocular pressure thus relieving glaucoma.  Another study published in 2008 suggests that CBG might be effective in treating glaucoma because it reduces intraocular pressure.
CBG for Appetite A 2016 study on rats suggested that CBG could stimulate the appetite. Appetite-stimulating chemicals can be used to treat those with conditions such as HIV or cancer.
Antibacterial Agent A 2008 study suggests that CBG can be an effective antibacterial agent, particularly against bacterial strains like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which causes drug-resistant staph infections.  These infections are resistant to the usual antibiotic drugs and fairly dangerous.
Bladder Dysfunction Aid CBG may also be useful for bladder dysfunctions.  One study looked at the effects of four different cannabinoids (CBG, THCV, CBD and CBDV) on bladder contractions. The researchers found CBG was the most effective at inhibiting muscle contractions in the human bladder. Reserchers concluded that CBG shows the most promise at treating bladder dysfunctions.
Stimulation of Bone Formation The effects of CBG on bone formation were researched in a 2007 study. Results showed that CBG can stimulate stem cells of the bone marrow through the CB2 receptor.  CBG may be helpful in the formation of new bones and healing of fractures.
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