Cannabinoids like CBD and CBG are the flag bearers of natural wellness, carrying unique therapeutic benefits. For years, CBD has taken the spotlight, but now CBG is coming into prominence as a powerful alternative. It is well lauded for its distinct properties.
So how does it compare to CBD, and which is right for you? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the differences between CBG and CBD, their benefits, uses, and how they can work together to enhance your wellness journey.
What is CBG?
CBG, or CBN (Cannabigerol), is just one of many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and has come to be known as the “mother cannabinoid.” It is a precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol), THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and CBC (cannabichromene). In its acidic form, cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, it degrades into these other cannabinoids through enzymatic processes as the cannabis plant matures.
It’s usually found in much smaller quantities than CBD or THC, typically making up less than 1% of the plant’s cannabinoid profile. This, along with historical complications with extraction technology, has placed CBG at a disadvantage in being well-known; this has been changing, though, with new advances in extraction.
CBD vs CBG Cannabinoid Structure
The structural differences between CBD and CBG might be minute, but they prove to have a big impact on how these cannabinoids interact with the human body. Both are extracted from the cannabis plant and belong to the same class of compounds, otherwise known as cannabinoids. Their molecular composition and interactions with the endocannabinoid system, however, set them apart.
Both CBD and CBG share a parent molecular structure containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, just arranged differently. These structural differences define how each interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the ECS. CBG has a linear structure, which gives it a stronger affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors. It is believed that this direct interaction could be responsible for CBG’s possible activity against inflammation, pain, and appetite. CBD, on the other hand, has a more complex ring structure that indirectly acts upon CB1 and CB2 receptors. Instead of direct binding, CBD acts upon these receptors indirectly by affecting the ECS in a manner that produces its far-reaching benefits without psychoactive effects.
Main Difference Between CBG and CBD
CBG (cannabigerol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are two cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, yet they greatly differ in their origin, mechanism of action, and benefits. These differences make each cannabinoid unique in catering to different wellness needs and therapeutic applications.
Origin and Abundance
One of the main differences lies in their origin within the plant. CBG is the precursor to the other cannabinoids and is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid.” In its acid form, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), it breaks down into CBDA, THCA, and CBCA in the course of the growth of the plant. Therefore, the residual levels of CBG in mature plants are very low, generally less than 1%. Conversely, CBD is extracted from CBDA, which develops in higher quantities in most strains of cannabis, so CBD is much more abundant and easier to get.
Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System
Although both CBG and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), they do it in different ways. On its part, CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, thereby offering targeted effects such as the reduction of inflammation, pain, and intraocular pressure. This direct interaction with the receptors results in its increased potency in specific conditions like glaucoma and bacterial infections.
CBD, on the other hand, works indirectly by elevating the natural function of the ECS. It inhibits the breakdown of anandamide, an endocannabinoid associated with mood, regulation of pain, and general well-being. This way, CBD is able to have a broad potential, including relief of stress, improvement in quality of sleep, and anti-inflammatory effects, without directly interacting with the ECS receptors.
Therapeutic Applications
Another difference between CBG and CBD lies in their therapeutic applications. CBG was found to be far more effective in conditions associated with targeted inflammation, bacterial infections, and neurodegeneration. For example, research has suggested that CBG might be used to treat IBD and Huntington’s disease.
CBD, on the other hand, is better known for managing anxiety, stress, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. It has been studied and used in a host of other conditions, though, such as epilepsy, arthritis, and skin issues like acne. While both cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory effects, the activity of CBG is usually much more localized, whereas that of CBD is systematic in nature.
Psychoactivity and Safety
Both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive and do not replicate the “high” phenomenon seen with THC. However, as CBG acts directly on CB1 receptors, its local effects are more likely to be apparent while relieving pain and stimulating appetite slightly more. As such, CBD has less apparent but generally more diffuse effects and thus works better as a daily or long-term product for wellbeing.
CBG Benefits Vs CBD — Which Should I Choose?
When choosing between CBG (cannabigerol) and CBD (cannabidiol), consider what each cannabinoid offers in terms of specific benefits and your personal wellness goals. While both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce therapeutic benefits, their mechanisms and focus areas differ greatly.
CBG Benefits
CBG has more focused effects because it interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS. Some of the most prominent benefits include:
Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammation: CBG works very well with localized pain and inflammation. It has been shown in research to potentially reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and joint pain.
Neuronal protection: A growing body of research is now pointing to CBG as a neuroprotectant, thus potentially useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s and Parkinson’s.
Antibacterial activity: CBG has been reported to show strong antibacterial activity against a range of bacteria, including MRSA, and therefore may be useful in skin infections and wound care.
Appetite stimulation: Unlike CBD, CBG has been shown to stimulate appetite, which could be useful in conditions where appetite is otherwise suppressed by illness or treatment.
Benefits of CBD
CBD has gained popularity for being versatile in use and having widespread effects. Some of the benefits include:
Stress and Anxiety Relief: One of the well-documented properties of CBD is its ability to regulate stress and anxiety, therefore becoming the first choice for mental health support.
Chronic Pain Management: While CBG is focused on localized relief, CBD has systemic anti-inflammatory effects that might help with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle soreness.
Improved Sleep: CBD brings relaxation and has been shown to improve sleep in people, especially those with insomnia.
Epilepsy and Seizure Control: Some forms of epilepsy are approved for treatment with CBD; hence, proving its usefulness in controlling neurologic disorders.
Skin Health: With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is also effective in treating acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between CBG and CBD really comes down to what your needs are. If you’re looking for something localized—be it inflammation, pain, or bacterial infections—then CBG might be better for you. However, CBD is best suited for a user looking for an all-purpose cannabinoid that will target a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, stress, and chronic pain.
If your main priority is dealing with neurodegenerative diseases, then CBG would have more direct benefits due to its neuroprotective properties. Although both CBG and CBD can improve skin conditions, CBD does so to a greater extent and is found more in skincare products.
CBG vs CBD: Common Uses
Although both CBG and CBD are versatile molecules with many therapeutic applications, their common uses tend to diverge due to the different ways each interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, or ECS. Knowing these differences will help you choose the best cannabinoid for your purposes.
CBG Common Uses
In many instances, CBG gets selected because of its targeted effects, making it particularly useful. CBG is used in the main treatment of localized pain and inflammation. It was observed to help manage conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, IBD, joint pain, and muscle tension.
Its neuroprotective properties mean that CBG might also be a panacea for diseases like Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s. Its support for brain health is showing more promise with ongoing studies.
In addition, CBG has been shown to have activity against resistant bacterial strains, including MRSA, and so acts as a very good complement to topical applications in the treatment of skin infections and wounds. CBG was found to reduce intraocular pressure and thus would be an option for glaucoma management. Unlike CBD, CBG stimulates appetite and therefore would be useful for persons who have appetite loss resulting from disease or its treatment.
CBD Common Uses
CBD has been used widely due to its broad therapeutic benefits, which treat both physical and mental health issues. To start with, people mostly use CBD for reducing stress and anxiety. It relaxes the body without causing sedation and enhances mood. Systemic pain, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or even general muscle soreness, can be kept under control because of the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. Most of the time, it’s used to help with sleep disorders because of its help in the underlying causes of sleep disorders, such as anxiety or pain. CBD is an FDA-approved medicine for epilepsy, especially in connection with rare conditions such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It is added to many skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on controlling diseases like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Can You Combine CBD and CBG?
The combination would amplify the therapeutic benefit because of what is referred to as the “entourage effect.” The belief is that cannabinoids work in concert, or synergistically, in a way of enhancing each other’s effects. CBD and CBG, taken together, make them very potent for most health-related issues.
CBD and CBG complement each other in their mechanisms of action. CBD acts indirectly on ECS by inhibiting the degradation of naturally occurring endocannabinoids, thus promoting homeostasis within the body. On the other hand, CBG has been shown to directly bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, resulting in more focused effects, such as localized issues like pain and inflammation. Combined, these cannabinoids satisfy both systemic and localized needs and hence have a well-rounded therapeutic profile.
Combining CBD and CBG may enhance pain and inflammation relief. While CBD delivers broad anti-inflammatory effects, CBG’s direct receptor interactions may deliver faster, localized relief. Similarly, the combination is effective for mood and stress management. CBD is known for its generally relaxing properties, while CBG helps to regulate mood and reduces cortisol levels, which may amplify their combined benefits.
CBG Oil vs CBD Oil: How Does It Feel?
CBG oil and CBD oil share some similarities in their interaction with the body but have truly divergent effects on the ECS. They both offer therapeutic value, however, due to differences in characteristics, they evoke diverse experiences. Knowing these differences allows users to determine which meets their needs better.
How CBG Oil Feels
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often called the “mother cannabinoid” since it is the precursor to other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. Users commonly report that CBG oil gives them a sense of focus and alertness. Unlike the calming and sedative effects often associated with CBD, CBG is more energizing, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance productivity or mental clarity.
How CBD Oil Feels
On the other hand, CBD refers to cannabidiol, which is well-recognized for its relaxing and calming properties. It interacts indirectly with the ECS through enhancing the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids, thereby promoting a feeling of equilibrium or balance. Most users report a gentle wave of relaxation, which, in turn, may alleviate stress, anxiety, and sleep problems.
Side Effects of CBG and CBD
Both CBG and CBD are generally well-tolerated, but some users can experience side effects, mainly when starting or adjusting dosages. Understanding these potential effects is important to ensure safe and effective use. Though both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive, they do interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and may cause mild reactions in some individuals.
Side Effects of CBG
CBG is usually said to be a gentle, non-psychoactive cannabinoid; nonetheless, people taking high doses may even experience some unwanted effects. These include:
Dry Mouth (Cottonmouth)
Like most cannabinoids, CBG induces a dry mouth, better known as “cottonmouth.” The reason for this is that as the CBG interacts with the salivary glands, the saliva production gets lowered. Staying hydrated might help to reduce this feeling.
Drowsiness or Sedation
While generally invigorating, CBG can induce drowsiness in some people, particularly when taken in higher amounts or combined with other relaxants. This effect is far less common with CBG compared to CBD, but it still happens sometimes.
Lowered Blood Pressure
CBG might also produce a slight hypotensive effect, that is, it would tend to lower blood pressure. In some individuals, this may cause dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up quickly. Individuals who have low blood pressure or are taking medication for high blood pressure should be cautious.
Gastrointestinal Upset
While relatively rare, some users might potentially experience some gastrointestinal upset in the form of an upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea. If this happens, then reducing the dose or stopping the supplement might help.
Side Effects of CBD
CBD has been one of the most researched cannabinoids and is established as safe for most users. However, it can still produce mild side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of CBD include:
Drowsiness or Fatigue
One of the most commonly reported side effects of using CBD is drowsiness. Most users report feeling more relaxed or even slightly sedated after taking CBD, especially at higher doses. While this may be useful when using CBD to help sleep disorders or anxiety, for some people, it’s probably not the best in the daytime.
Dry Mouth
Like CBG, CBD can also cause a dry mouth, although it is usually less pronounced. It is important to stay hydrated and drink water to counteract this effect.
Changes in Appetite
Appetite changes can occur in certain individuals who take CBD, though not all experience this; it may well depend on body chemistry. For those using CBD to regulate nausea or weight, this sometimes shows as a welcome side effect.
Diarrhea
Higher doses of CBD have also been known to cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders. This effect usually is dose-dependent and mostly disappears once the body is adapted to the cannabinoid. Reduction in dose or change of CBD product will help improve this side effect.
Low Blood Pressure
CBD can temporarily lower blood pressure, especially at higher doses. This might lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, especially for those who already have low blood pressure. Individuals with blood pressure medication should talk to a health professional before using CBD.
Research on CBG Extract Uses
A study published in The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics revealed that Canna-bigerol, CBG, showed the potential of treating and modulating inflammatory bowel disease. High-CBG hemp extract significantly reduced the severity of disease and improved colon length in the mouse model of colitis. Additionally, CBG treatment altered fecal microbiota and normalized several metabolic pathways linked with inflammation, suggesting a new option for therapeutic purposes in the treatment of patients suffering from IBD.
CBG has been evaluated for its skin health-promoting properties. In vitro studies showed that CBG regulates a greater number of genes in skin cells compared to CBD, showing reduced oxidative stress and an inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine release. A clinical study with a CBG serum demonstrated significant skin barrier improvement, as well as a decrease in redness, thereby showing CBG to be a very promising safe and effective topical ingredient. In osteoarthritis models, CBG oil reduced pain and inflammation, improved gait, and lowered synovitis.
CBG has also been identified as a novel appetite stimulant. This was supported by a study’s findings that, in pre-satiated rats, it increased food intake and meal frequency without neuromotor adverse effects, indicating its potency in the treatment of disorders like cachexia and other eating disorders. Research shows that CBG may also have a therapeutic application in neurological and pain disorders. It presented a reduction of hypernociception in animal models of prenatal hypoxia-ischemia and, importantly, neuropathic pain without impairment of motor function. Furthermore, supporting the potential of CBG as an antinociceptive agent, it modulates inflammatory markers.
References
https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.124.002204
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020491
https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.120.000340
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-016-4397-4
https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92030053
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10337483/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6514832/
