CBG: the new cannabinoid with therapeutic potential

The specific properties of hemp (Cannabis sativa) are due to compounds called cannabinoids. The best known are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD, with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and tranquilizing effects.

However, other less popular cannabinoids also have interesting properties. One of them is CBG, whose characteristics are similar to those of CBD. not psychoactive (does not alter perception or thought), but is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and analgesic.

What is CBG?

CBG is short for cannabigerol, one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in hemp or cannabis plants.

Young hemp plants produce cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). As the plant matures, CBGA breaks down into cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). These two compounds are then converted into CBD and THC. Leftover CBGA is converted to CBG.

Although CBG was first isolated in 1964, the cannabinoid did not receive much attention, so there are very few studies on this compound.

Modern research is in the preclinical stages, but from what is known so far, CBG may have various therapeutic effects.

It is possible that CBG is even more pain-relieving than THC. CBG can interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the human endocannabinoid system, which influence inflammation, pain, and even sensitivity to heat. The cannabinoid may also have antidepressant, anticancer, and antibacterial qualities.

What is CBD?

CBD is found naturally in hemp or cannabis plants. CBD was first isolated in the 1930s, but it was not studied further until the 1970s, when scientists determined that it might be an effective anticonvulsant.

Over the years, Research has confirmed many of the therapeutic benefits that CBD offers, including anxiolytic, analgesic, anti-nausea and sedative qualities. CBD has also been shown to be an effective treatment for some forms of childhood epilepsy.

In recent years, CBD has become the most popular cannabinoid, not only because of the multiple therapeutic benefits it offers, but also because it has no psychoactive properties. Unlike THC, CBD offers pain relief and other benefits without the risk of paranoia, anxiety, or impaired cognitive function.

Like CBG, CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Differences between CBG and CBD

Although they offer very similar therapeutic properties, CBG and CBD have some differences. For example, the two cannabinoids They have different molecular structures. This means that the arrangement of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen is different. Molecular structure affects how the cannabinoid binds to receptors and also affects bioavailability.

CBG and CBD are also unique in the way that they activate receptors. One study looked at how CBG and CBD interact with the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor. CBG behaves as an antagonist at that receptor, where as CBD has strong anti-nausea effects, meaning it acts as an agonist.

So even though the two cannabinoids are similar, when they bind to the same site, they have opposite effects on this specific receptor.

CBG and CBD they differ in how they act on appetite. A study conducted on rats found that CBG encouraged the animals to eat twice their normal food intake. Instead, a study conducted on CBD found that the cannabinoid significantly reduces total food intake.

Therapeutic benefits of CBG compared to CBD

There is not much research that has delved into the therapeutic effects of CBG. However, preclinical studies offer little insight into how the cannabinoid may interact with the body. Like CBD, CBG does not have psychoactive properties. Instead, it offers other therapeutic benefits, including:

The hope is that more clinical studies and research will be done so that we can better understand the benefits that CBG offers. By now most of the work has been done with animals, so human trials are necessary to fully understand how CBG and CBD interact in the body.

CBD is in a similar situation, but many more studies have been done. Research has found that CBD offers a number of therapeutic benefits, including:

Pain relief Improved sleep Reduced stress and anxiety Neuroprotective properties

What products contain CBG?

CBG is found in greater quantity in plants that contain less CBD and THC. In commercial products (oils, tinctures), it is usually found in combination with CBD.

If you suffer from an illness or are taking medication, It is not recommended to take CBG products without medical advice.