If you use cannabis products, including ones with THC or CBD, you’ve probably heard the term “CBG” tossed around lately, but what is CBG? Is CBG better than CBD? Will CBG get you high as THC does? If you have these questions, we’ve got your answers in this article comparing CBG vs CBD. USA medical homepage.
CBD is the most studied and widely-recognized hemp cannabinoid, but it isn’t the only one that’s useful! Although CBD has tons of incredible benefits, it can be even more powerful when used in combination with other compounds from the plant, including CBG.
CBD and CBG exhibit similar properties to each other, but CBG has a few extra benefits. If you already know all about CBG and just want to read about its comparison to CBD, jump to the end of this article. If you want to learn more about both compounds before understanding how they stack up, keep reading! Blog
What Is CBD?
The chemical composition of high-quality hemp is about ten percent cannabidiol (CBD). Non-intoxicating phytocannabinoids are plant compounds produced by plants, which cannot produce the ‘high’ or euphoric feeling associated with THC, which is the psychoactive component of marijuana. Some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, but only up to 0.3 percent, which is legally allowed and doesn’t make users feel any THC-style high (always check CBD lab tests to ensure there is no THC in the CBD oil you’re purchasing). If CBD products do contain trace levels of THC, they should have labels that clearly indicate that! Find yourself wondering “Will CBD show up on a drug test?” Click the link to find out more.
CBD molecules bind to both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which are located within our bodies’ endocannabinoid systems (ECS). Our peripheral nervous system gives these special receptors their function, but they also appear in our muscles, immune cells, skin, and other organs. Today, we have CBD products available to us that work along with this built-in biological system to provide health and wellness benefits. You can even buy CBD oil online.
What Is CBG?
CBG stands for cannabigerol, a phytocannabinoid capable of providing non-intoxicating effects. Like CBD, it is developed from hemp compounds. For those of you asking “Will CBG get you high?” the answer is no!
CBG was the first phytocannabinoid synthesized from hemp and is often called the ‘mother cannabinoid’ as it has the ability to convert into other plant-based cannabinoids.
Cannabigerol acid (CBGA) is the 2-carboxylic acid version of the compound. The tetrahydrocannabinolic acid component in hemp matures into other compounds: cannabidiolic acid and cannabichromene acid (CBCA).
Most research shows that no more than one percent of CBGA remains after conversion. The aforementioned compounds are decarboxylated when hemp oil starts its decarboxylation process and transforms into the commonly recognized cannabinoids, including THC, CBD, CBC, and CBG.
The lower the CBG levels in mature hemp plants, the more difficult the extraction is compared to CBD. In order to grow enough hemp to yield a large amount of CBG, the hemp should either be harvested before it matures, or grown in sufficient numbers.
The amount of CBG available for research is limited, but we’ve already learned that our endocannabinoid systems react to it in much the same way as CBD, in that it attaches to the receptors well. The CBG molecule binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, much like CBD.
Let’s Compare: CBD vs CBG
Despite the fact that both compounds are non-intoxicating cannabinoids derived from Cannabis sativa, they are unique in their chemical properties and possess uniquely different capabilities. The following chart displays some of their similarities and differences:
Properties |
CBG |
CBD |
| THC-Free (Psychoactive-Free) | ||
| Sourced From Hemp | ||
| Affects Multiple Cannabinoid Receptors | ||
| Found In Hemp In Large Quantities | ||
| Benefits The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) | ||
| Benefits The Entire Body | ||
| Can Transform Into Other Cannabinoids | ||
| Develops During Early Hemp Growth |
Is CBG Better Than CBD?
CBD molecules interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are located in the center of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and in your brain. Among the different biological systems affected by the PNS are muscles, limbs, skin, and the immune system.
CBG also attaches to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in our brains and spinal cords. Rather than focusing on the one whose benefits are greater, it is more important to determine which cannabinoid is right for you, based on your unique concerns.
The individual benefits of CBD oil and CBG can be summed up in one sentence. Both of the cannabinoids contribute to the entourage effect with their complementary effects. If you want to use a combination of CBD, CBG, and/or other cannabinoids, look for products labeled “full-spectrum” or “broad spectrum” – those products contain both. Of course, the dose you take will also have an impact on its effectiveness, so make sure to use this CBD Oil Dosage Calculator to find the right amount for you.
Because hemp oil with CBD is much more widely available than hemp CBG, it’s easier for researchers to conduct studies. There are fewer studies confirming CBG’s benefits, but that fact isn’t reflective of their authority or usefulness.
In case you’re still asking “Is CBG better than CBD?” let’s walk through the ways these two cannabinoids compare on different health topics.
CBD vs. CBG: For Stress
Survey data indicates that CBD’s stress-relieving properties are the most common reason people use CBD oil. Along with other calming activities like yoga, meditation, and exercise, CBD can be a powerful and beneficial tool. Many people don’t know that CBG can also be part of your stress management strategy.
CBG and CBD hemp oil both have the potential to combat common stress, boosting the effectiveness of CBD used alone. The entourage effect can be an added measure to help with anxiety, worry, and stress.
The research does not indicate that a particular cannabinoid promotes a calm temperament more than the other. They’re both excellent!
CBD vs. CBD: For Sleep
Nearly 70 percent of Americans report regular poor sleep, the most important, yet overlooked, aspect of our health and well-being. CBD oil for sleep, particularly as part of a calming evening ritual, is becoming a preferred addition to daily routines!
Lots of people get sleepy after consuming CBD, but taking CBD or using CBD products alone should not tire you out. The effects of this additive are maximized when taken in conjunction with other sleep-promoting substances, like melatonin.
When combined, THC and CBD will likely cause drowsiness, but most CBD products have 0.3% or less THC content. When taken as directed, CBD won’t put you to sleep, but it will work to relax and calm you, which is an ideal position for nighttime!
Currently, we don’t know much about CBG’s potential effects on sleep, as there aren’t many research studies available. In theory, CBG and CBD would have more influence together, considering their entourage effect helps them complement one another and promote general relaxation.
CBD and CBG: For Pain Relief
A recent study showed that CBD helped ease minor discomfort associated with strenuous exercise for 40 percent of users. Our peripheral nervous system is made up of the muscles and joints we regularly use in our regular fitness routines. CBD molecules specifically communicate with CB2 receptors of the PNS, so it may be slightly more beneficial than CBG, although CBG does work with CB1 and CB2 receptors.
One of the most commonly used methods to treat soreness is the topical application of CBD. Lotions and creams that contain pure CBD oil mixed with menthol provide targeted pain relief.
It is also possible to consume CBD through tinctures, softgels, or gummies. The delayed-onset muscle soreness from physical activities can be mediated through these ingestible methods.
Should I Choose CBD Or CBG?
Your body type, lifestyle, and physical characteristics affect how CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoids behave in your system. When comparing CBG vs CBD, you should determine which one best suits your personal needs. These two cannabinoids work best together rather than individually. Combining them may be the most efficient and effective option, making the decision between them irrelevant. Several CBD products use combinations. CBD oil for stress.
Hemp naturally contains both types of CBD, and they both have similar properties. The composition of each still differs from the other and they’ve been shown to offer unique benefits in limited studies. Hemp oil vs CBD oil.
Your Biggest Questions, Answered: CBD vs CBG
What is CBG?
CBG stands for cannabigerol, a phytocannabinoid capable of providing non-intoxicating effects. Like CBD, it is developed from hemp compounds.
Will CBG get you high?
Nope! Be aware that CBD oils labeled “full-spectrum” contain every cannabinoid, including THC and CBG. If you use a full-spectrum CBD oil, you may not pass a drug test.
CBD vs CBG: Which is better?
Depending on your unique needs, it may benefit you to locate products that contain CBG!
Final Words: CBD vs CBG
It’s obvious that we know very little about the extent of CBG’s healing capabilities. However, much like CBD, CBG has the potential to be widely beneficial and used to treat diseases we know very little about. Does CBD give you energy?
We want to know more about what is CBG and the effects of CBG. As we learn more, we’ll share that research with you. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for 20% off your first purchase and to be on our email list for the latest CBD, CBG, and cannabinoid research!