CBD v. CBG What's the difference?

Everyone is talking about CBD and CBG. Is one better than the other?

When the hemp plant grows, its hundreds of chemical compounds known as Cannabinoids are created. The major cannabinoid that is synthesized in hemp is known as Cannabidiol (CBD) but there are hundreds of other minor cannabinoids and terpenes, too. One cannabinoid compound that has been talked about a lot is Cannabigerol (CBG).

What is CBG and how does it compare to CBD?

CBD is a major cannabinoid and the major compound that is in the hemp plant. CBG is considered a minor cannabinoid because, once the plant has been harvested, only a small amount of CBG often remains. When the plant began growing, however, it told a different story.

All cannabinoid compounds start out in the plant’s growth as their acidic version. For example, CBD begins as CBD-a. Once these compounds reach UV exposure and heat, these acidic compounds convert into their final form that we enjoy them as: CBD, CBG and so on.

What makes CBG-a so unique is that it does not just become CBG in the end, but CBG-a can also synthesize into CBD-a (which becomes CBD) and THC-a (which becomes THC). Therefore, many refer to CBG as the “stem cell” or “mother” cannabinoid.

In hemp, many cross breeding and seed genetics techniques are being used to influence the outcomes and concentrations of CBG, which allows for more products to be made with it.

Why do we want more products with CBG?

While CBD, on its own, has a great amount of research and consumer reporting attached to it, CBG has its own positives worth talking about. Shown to be quite the helper to CBD, CBG is seen as encouraging positive effects from the major compound of the plant. In a medical research study out of Italy, scientists found CBG to be a contributor to anti-inflammatory potential (1). Another study found CBG carries THC’s positive potential outcome of appetite stimulation (2).

In a full spectrum product (like our popular CBD/CBG Full-Spectrum tincture), CBG is one of many helpers to the other compounds. This is what is found to be encouraging to the entourage effect: a synergistic understanding that occurs when the plant compounds are not isolated from one another. By being sure CBG is included in our high-quality hemp-based formulations, we offer the most that the plant has for those who choose to add it to their wellness routine.

Is one better than the other?

Not really. CBD and CBG are both parts of the same plant compound family. Just like the other compounds and terpenes, they each have a different role to play or job to do. But much like gears in a watch, they can align and work together for a common goal or desired result.

How do I know which CBD/CBG product is best for me?

That is a matter of personal preference. Many choose topical creams and balms as they can offer targeted relief to sore muscles and joints. Some prefer the ease of a tincture. With the quick, sublingual absorption and variety of ways to enjoy it, tinctures are a popular choice. One of the favorite ways to enjoy CBD/CBG blends, however, is in a simple gummy treat. These sweet treats have a measured blend of hemp extracts wrapped in fruity flavors.

No matter which you choose, it is good to be sure to read your labels. Our third-party testing is available and easy to find. If you are looking to learn more about this amazing plant compound, we invite you to review our blog for more news and tips.

Whether you choose to enjoy CBD, CBG or an enjoyable blend of both, the plant compounds are continually surprising many in science and research as to what their true potential really is.

References:

1. Brierley DI, Samuels J, Duncan M, Whalley BJ, Williams CM. Cannabigerol is a novel, well-tolerated appetite stimulant in pre-satiated rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2016;233(19-20):3603-3613. doi:10.1007/s00213-016-4397-4
2. Mammana S, Cavalli E, Gugliandolo A, et al. Could the Combination of Two Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Counteract Neuroinflammation? Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Associated with Cannabigerol. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019;55(11):747. Published 2019 Nov 18. doi:10.3390/medicina55110747
3. Gugliandolo A, Pollastro F, Grassi G, Bramanti P, Mazzon E. In Vitro Model of Neuroinflammation: Efficacy of Cannabigerol, a Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoid. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1992. Published 2018 Jul 8. doi:10.3390/ijms19071992