The Ultimate Guide to CBG: Is CBG the New CBD?
You’ve likely heard of CBD, which has received a lot of attention in the recent past for its many potential health benefits. But did you know there’s another unique cannabis compound also gaining traction among the cannabis community?
If you’ve never heard of CBG, you’ve stumbled upon the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the difference between CBG and CBD, including the types of CBG, how it works, and the potential benefits it provides. Including a few unique ways to enjoy it. Is CBG the new CBD? Read on to find out.
What Is CBG?
Cannabis contains over 100 compounds, including cannabigerol, commonly known as CBG. This compound is found in highest concentration during the early growth stage of hemp and cannabis. All cannabis compounds, including THC and CBD, are derived from the acidic version of CBG (CBGA), which is why CBG is often referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids.”
You may have noticed when shopping for CBD that it comes in three different forms – full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate. The same is true for CBG.
Full-spectrum CBG includes trace amounts of THC, CBD, CBN, terpenes, and flavonoids. Broad-spectrum CBG is similar to full spectrum. It contains all the cannabinoids found in full-spectrum CBG, with the exception of THC. Finally, isolate is the purest form of CBG, with about 1% or less cannabinoids.
What’s the Difference Between CBG and CBD?
If you are familiar with CBD, you may be wondering how CBG and CBD differ. Let’s start first though with how they are similar.
Both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive, which means they don’t influence your state of mind or make you high in the way THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) does. Another similarity is that both compounds provide some of the same potential medical benefits.
But there are also plenty of ways that CBG and CBD differ. Although more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBG, here are some clear differences between the two compounds:
CGB May Cost More Than CBD
Most cannabis plants contain only 1% of CBG but up to 25% CBD. Because CBG is harder to source, products containing CBG tend to cost more than CBD products.
CBG and CBD Have Different Molecular Structures
This means they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors in different ways. Although the benefits of both compounds do often overlap, generally speaking, CBG is thought to have a greater neurological effect, helping with things such as focus, while CBD tends to ease physical issues such as pain.
CBG Energizes, While CBD Relaxes
CBG energizes your body and reinvigorates your mood, while CBD is a relaxant that helps calm your mind and balance other internal functions.
CBG May Bring On The Munchies
Initial studies show that CBG can stimulate appetite while CBD seems to suppress appetite.
What’s The Hype Behind CBG?
Many people have never heard of CBG simply because there are fewer CBG products out there. This is due in part to the limited quantity of CBG in cannabis plants, which makes it harder to source to manufacturers.
Some breeders have started to experiment with ways to grow more CBG productive plants, but until the compound becomes easier to extract in higher quantities, CBD-based products will no doubt continue to claim the spotlight.
This shouldn’t diminish the fact that CBG provides plenty of benefits worthy of attention. Some individuals find CBG is more effective than CBD at treating certain conditions like anxiety and pain. While research is still needed to fully understand all of CBG’s benefits, it has become the favourite of some seeking to treat specific health concerns.
What Are the Benefits of CBG?
CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that’s potentially great for skincare and overall well-being. But CBG may also be found to be helpful in the treatment of many other health concerns including:
What Are the Best Ways to Use CBG for Maximum Benefit?
Now that you know a little bit more about CBG, you may wonder how you can get a hold of it or how to use it. The good news is CBG comes in a variety of forms perfect for everyday use. Here are the top five ways you can incorporate CBG into your daily routine.
Sublingual administration (under the tongue) of CBG Oil
This is one of the fastest ways to feel the effects of CBG. Simply put a few drops of CBG oil under your tongue and hold it there for about a minute before swallowing. Sublingual administration allows the CBG to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream via the blood vessels located under your tongue.
Topical Administration of CBG Oil
CBG is believed to interact with neurotransmitters in the body helping to potentially reduce chronic pain and provide relief from stiff, achy joints. Topicals containing CBG, such as lotions and balms, can be applied directly to a trouble area for targeted relief.
Infuse Foods with CGB
If you love to cook or bake, next time try adding CBG to your ingredient list. There’s no limit to what you can infuse with CBG oil; from savoury dishes like salad dressings and soups, all the way to desserts like cookies and cakes. Gummies are a classic edible, and a discreet way to get your dose of CBG.
Add CBG to Your Drinks
Another great way of consuming CBG is to add it to your beverages. Hot or cold, it’s up to you. There are no hard and fast rules here. Enjoy CBG in smoothies, shakes, juices, cocktails or in your morning tea or coffee for an energizing boost.
