Move over CBD—there’s a new kid in town! Cannabigerol, otherwise known as CBG, has become one of the hottest new topics in health, wellness, and cannabis. With all the buzz reaching a fevered pitch, it’s time to ask: What does CBG do?
Don’t worry if all these cannabis acronyms leave you feeling confused. The experts at The Joint are here to elevate your knowledge and keep you up to date on all the dankest discoveries. We’ll break down what CBG is, its effects, and some of the products and high CBG strains on the market.
The Mother Cannabinoid
CBG is just one of the 540 cannabinoids found in cannabis, but it’s arguably the most important because to do what CBG does, you have to be the first. Every other cannabinoid found in marijuana, like CBD, starts as CBG. Because it’s the first step of every cannabis compound, it’s called “The Mother Cannabinoid.”
Scientists discovered CBG in 1964, but serious research didn’t begin for nearly fifty years. This is because most strains’ CBG levels aren’t high. As the building block of all cannabinoids, CBG is most likely to transform into a different compound and only found in small amounts in cannabis flower. Though, as we’ll see later, that’s beginning to change.
Once ingested, the CBG compound attaches to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, the central nervous system, and the immune system. That’s when the magic happens.
So now we know what CBG is, but what does CBG do to make it so popular?
Does CBG Get You High?
While CBG has the potential to become THC, it isn’t psychoactive itself. Ingesting CBG does not produce any intoxicating effects. Since users don’t experience euphoria or sedation, CBG is a promising option for those looking to benefit from cannabis without getting high.
Certain products combine CBG with CBD because they aren’t psychoactive. Scientists believe they might complement one another in other ways, too. While the compounds have different molecular structures and remain unique, their effects could overlap and bolster each other.
CBG does not do what THC does. In this case, that’s a good thing.
CBG Benefits
The unique potential of CBG has the wellness and cannabis industries buzzing about this compound. While more research needs to be done, preliminary testing and anecdotal evidence show many possible benefits.
What’s fascinating is that these potential effects are holistic by nature. They could impact our minds and bodies.
Mind
A link between CBG and the brain’s serotonin receptors shows that it might play a role in managing mood and anxiety. It’s also antimicrobial, which could promote clear thinking.
With the potential to ease stress and alleviate brain fog, CBG might give you a different type of buzz—one of a worker bee. Its combined effects could improve focus and productivity.
Body
What does CBG do for the body? Its interactions with our GABA receptors mean it could help our muscles relax. Coupled with possible anti-inflammatory properties, CBG could effectively aid recovery from physical activities.
While more research is needed, CBG also seems promising for GI issues. Studies show that the compound’s interactions with the endocannabinoid system might help relieve symptoms related to digestive system issues.
CBG vs CBD
While CBG is what CBD uses as its initial chemical stepping stone, these cannabinoids end up quite different. The antibacterial potential of CBG is much greater than CBD, making it better suited for topical products like gels or creams.
CBD is better at helping users sleep by providing relaxing effects at higher doses. What CBG does is provide a mental edge. Many report the cannabinoid is energizing and helps with concentration.
Popular CBG Products
Does CBG do what you’ve always wanted from a supplement? You’ll be happy to hear that there are many different ways to reap its rewards!
Topicals
Because of its antibacterial properties and recovery benefits, CBG makes a great topical. Gels and creams are popular vehicles for this cannabinoid. Athletes and skin care enthusiasts will enjoy these products.
Tinctures
Nothing is easier than adding a dose of CBG tincture to your favourite drink. With a few drops in your tea, coffee, or soda, you’ll forget all about it after the first sip. You can even take a few drops under the tongue if you’re on the go.
Edibles
CBG edibles make cannabis compounds alluring to foodies. Gummies are particularly popular thanks to their fun flavors and portability. For anyone hoping to gain digestive benefits from CBG, an edible could be the first step to unlocking these effects.
High CBG Strains
For many years, most strains’ CBG wasn’t high. This stems from CBG being most prevalent in young plants. However, recent cross-breeding has cultivated several strains that boast the compound at high levels. These cross-breeds use hemp instead of cannabis, keeping their THC levels practically nonexistent.
Jack Frost CBG
Jack Frost CBG is a high CBG strain, clocking in at about 18% of the cannabinoid. In fact, it’s one of the highest CBG strains out there. It’s the child of White Widow and Northern Lights #5. Puffs of this bud produce a mellow smoke that evokes chamomile tea, lemon, and wood.
Madras CBG
With notes of orange and cranberry, Madras CBG is one of the tastiest buds on this list. But it’s also a high CBG strain at nearly 15%. Users report feeling uplifted and energized by its tasty smoke. Try lighting Madras CBG up before tackling a project.
Lemon Diesel CBG
At over 12% CBG, Lemon Diesel CBG is a go-to strain for smokers before their creative endeavors. Users report a burst of energy and mental clarity, making it a nice smoke before a brainstorming session. The puffs are delicious, too. Light cinnamon undertones contrast with floral-tinged lemon zest notes.
Super Glue CBG
True to its name, Super Glue CBG will really stick to your cannabinoid receptors. This high CBG strain clocks in at a staggering 22% CBG. Its rich smoke lacks any spicy notes, creating a mellow, earthy smoke with a hint of pine. The high levels of CBG leave users reporting a mood-boosting relaxation.
What Does CBG Do? A Lot
CBG has massive potential. While more studies are needed to verify what it can do scientifically, CBG does what many people strive to do: approach health by addressing the mind and body.
At The Joint, we share insider tips, expert advice, and industry news on our buzzy cannabis blog. Between hits, check out our article to elevate your knowledge, or stop by our nearest cannabis store to speak directly with our helpful team!
