Before we get into any comparisons and contrasts between CBD vs CBG, here’s a quick overview of what these two cannabinoids are exactly:
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What is CBD?
Many describe CBD as the “good” healing cannabinoid, and THC as the “bad” psychoactive or “high” cannabinoid. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the leading compounds found in hemp; it makes up about 40 percent of hemp’s composition. It’s a non-intoxicating Phyto cannabinoid – meaning it’s a plant-synthesized chemical that cannot produce a “high” or euphoric feeling.
CBD molecules work with our bodies’ endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding or communicating with CB2 cannabinoid receptors.
What is CBG?
CBG is essentially the “parent” cannabinoid, meaning that every other cannabinoid starts out as CBG and then eventually converts to other cannabinoids like THC or CBD. In terms of how well it connects to CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBG seems to be much more effective and direct than CBD. Similarly, to CBD, CBG does not have psychoactive effects (meaning it won’t get you high). CBG, or cannabigerol, is an underrated minor cannabinoid found in cannabis that deserves a lot more credit. CBG is a non-intoxicating molecule with loads of potential therapeutic applications and benefits.
CBG is regularly referred to as a “mother cannabinoid”; this is because it is the first phytocannabinoid synthesized in hemp that converts into other plant-based cannabinoids. Because a mature hemp plant contains low levels of CBG, its extraction requires much more effort compared to CBD. Cultivators would either need to harvest hemp before it fully matures, or grow enough hemp plants to yield a significant CBG during the extraction process. And since there is less CBG to go around, research about this particular cannabinoid is limited; however, similar to CBD, CBG also works by attaching to the receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system. In comparison, CBG can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors rather than one over the other.
CBD vs. CBG: Unraveling the Cannabis Enigma
Two of the brightest stars in the ever-expanding cannabis cosmos are CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBG (Cannabigerol). At first glance, there might appear to be a non-subtle genetic link: they’re second cousins, or something. But because of their unique properties with regard to consumption and their rather different benefits, they’re more akin to twins from different mothers. The way they operate in the body, and how they get there, could hardly be more distinct. CBD owes its key distinctions (and variations in legality across the US) to the fact that it comes from hemp. So, let’s go on a mission to find the differences between these twins, separated at birth, and how closely their Moons orbit each other.
The Genesis of Cannabinoids: CBG
Picture CBG as the feminine matriarch of the cannabinoid family tree. Dubbed the ‘mother of all cannabinoids’, CBG is the precursor molecule used by the plant to synthesis many other cannabinoids, including CBD. This makes CBG more of a cosmic freak, as if CBG wasn’t CBG and became CBD and the other cannabinoids as it aged. Nonetheless, CBG is actually one of the rarer cannabinoids found in the plant.
CBD: The Superstar Cannabinoid
Next to THC, CBD is the cannabis celebrity, perhaps not as beloved but enjoying its 15 minutes of fame at alcohol’s expense nonetheless. CBD is non-intoxicating (a quick Google search for ‘is CBD psychoactive?’ brings you to Web MD) and would appear to be a good fit for any astronaut prescribed THC to get high and deep sleep through long missions. That’s not to say it’s not psychoactive enough to alter your mood and provide a dose of tranquility, but whoever landed on Pot in Space concurred; the last thing you want is to be stoned in low Earth orbit. Judging by the hype surrounding beauty products and wellness, and the tsunami of questionable claims on the internet, CBD has emerged as a panacea for the weary modern mind and body.
The Cosmic Dance: How CBG and CBD Interact with the Body
Each of these cannabinoids perform a cosmic dance with our ECS, a vast network of receptors that help maintain bodily homeostasis. In that way, they’re sort of the same, but they also tango very differently.
The Entourage Effect: A Galactic Symphony
CBG appears to interact synergistically with CBD – a molecular uplift known as the ‘entourage effect’ that together can become greater than the sum of the separate parts. We’re talking galactic chamber music here, where each cannabinoid’s separate flavor is multiplied by the other, creating a symphony that could – just maybe – offer something even better than the sum of the two compounds taken together.
Navigating the Universe: Choosing Between CBG and CBD
In this way, choosing CBG over CBD is like choosing to go to Mars over Venus; it depends on the kind of cosmic excursion you’re interested in taking. If you’re interested in the possibility of an underdosed, little-understood cannabinoid with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, CBG could be where you want to land. If you’re interested in a cannabinoid that has accumulated an extensive body of scientific evidence supporting its calming effects and safety, CBD could be the vessel that helps you get there.
The Future of Cannabinoids: To Infinity and Beyond
The best is yet to come as we emerge from a long period of prohibition-shrouded stasis and we open our eyes – and facilities – to the continued discovery of a universe of cannabinoids, some of which are only now beginning to find expression in the combination embodied in THC-free CBG
Having read through this blog about CBG vs CBD you are now aware that both cannabinoids are valuable and each has its place in the realm of wellness and cosmetics. CBD can take the spotlight in the natural health sector at times but CBG is starting to be recognized as an all-rounder too, and the knowledge about what CBG can perform is growing.
According to brand spokesperson Nick Lane, CBG, or cannabigerol, is sometimes called the ‘mother of all cannabinoids’ because it precedes the other cannabinoids. It offers many of the same benefits as CBD but may also offer advantages beyond them. Even more notably in skincare products, CBG is already being marketed to enhance the effects of CBD by the ‘entourage effect’, which is a synergistic boost in treatments that contain more than one cannabinoid, while reducing psychoactivity from THC.
While the search for CBG’s therapeutic applications is just beginning, its initial clinical research and anecdotal evidence suggests that it could prove essential in treating a great variety of conditions. As the cannabis research community continues to discover the suite of cannabinoids’ benefits, the debate over CBG versus CBD will likely shift from which cannabinoid is better to how these two and others can augment each other to heighten our well-being.
Using CBG in your natural routine, whether as part of a broader wellness strategy or as a component in topicals or other skincare products, could provide yet another strategy for accessing the healing power of the cannabinoids. Any new supplement or beauty ingredient should be discussed with your healthcare practitioner to determine if it fits your health plan and goals. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, staying up to date with the latest research and product developments will help you get the most from CBG, CBD and the various other cannabinoids.
And now that we’ve completed this celestial journey across the minor cannabinoid cosmos, it’s clear that both cannabinoids have their place in the cannabis cosmos. Whether your preferences lie with the rare, ancestral CBG or the all-star and well-studied CBD, the possibilities – given what we’re learning still needs to be learned – are intriguing indeed. Until then, our collective telescopes remain pointed skyward, filled with hope and energy.
Is CBD or CBG Better?
The results from using CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoids can vary based on our body types, lifestyle, and other physical qualities. And because these two particular cannabinoids work best together than individually, it’s better to figure out which one closest fits your needs or use when comparing CBD vs CBG.
They both naturally occur in Cannabis sativa and share some of the same characteristics. However, they are still different in composition and offer unique benefits based on limited research. If you want to learn more about the potential benefits of CBG and other cannabinoids, check our blog posts for more information about non-CBD cannabinoids.
And after becoming more knowledgeable about CBD vs CBG differences, the more confident you’ll be with purchasing CBD or hemp-based products that best suit your needs and achieve personal goals.
Have You Tried CBG?
Have you tried CBG? Do you find it enhances the effects of CBD? Or maybe you’re just curious about this cannabinoid? Let us know your experience by connecting with us on Facebook or Instagram