Yoodley is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG) stand among the most researched cannabinoids of the cannabis plant. As the horizons of medical application of cannabis extracts expand, more potential users are looking for these cannabinoids at online CBD stores to address medical conditions.
The following is a comprehensive guide to the differences between CBG and CBD. Stick around to get familiar with the potential health benefits associated with the two cannabinoids.
CBD Vs CBG: Unravelling the Difference
Most novice users find themselves stuck with the wide collection of cannabis products on the market. Knowing which cannabinoid to use plays a crucial role while shopping for cannabis products. The following guide to CBG and CBD’s differences in effects can help you make a wise choice.
What Is CBG?
CBG or Cannabigerol is generally known as the stem cell that serves as the precursor or the parent cannabinoid to the other cannabinoids of the cannabis plant. Although CBG is present in trace amounts in most of the cannabis strains, the intriguing healing abilities of CBG contribute to its growing popularity among users.
What Is CBD?
CBD is the most versatile cannabinoid of the cannabis plant that features a non-psychoactive nature. Its therapeutic potential makes it suitable to address a wide array of medical conditions in human beings and pets. It is abundantly found in the hemp plant, which explains why it has gained a massive population as a frontrunner in the arena of cannabinoids.
CBD Vs. CBG: Major Differences
Interaction With the Cannabinoid Receptors
An in-depth analysis of the receptor dynamics of these two cannabinoids reveals the major differences. As you meticulously assess the way CBG and CBD interact with the cannabinoid receptors in the body, it’s easier to figure out the pattern of their interactive mechanisms.
CB1 receptors are present in the central nervous system, and CBG exhibits a relatively stronger interactive affinity towards CB1 receptors. This results in CBG’s greater ability to influence the neurological functions of the body.
The pattern of interaction between CBD and the cannabinoid receptors results in an impactful influence of CBD on the physiological processes of the body.
Chemical Structure
Despite both being cannabinoids, CBD and CBG have different chemical structures, which influence how they interact with the body’s receptors.
CBG is also a 21-carbon terpenophenolic substance with a molecular formula similar to CBD, C21H32O2.
The distinct part of CBG’s structure is its specific arrangement of atoms and the lack of a double bond, which is present in CBD.
CBG, the non-acid form of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), serves as the foundational compound from which other cannabinoids are synthesized in the cannabis plant.
The compound interacts with the brain’s CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors due to its specific molecular structure. The structural variances between CBD and CBG influence their interactions with bodily receptors, playing a role in their potential health benefits. Despite sharing similarities, it’s their distinct molecular designs that contribute to their respective therapeutic roles. It’s crucial to acknowledge that research into these cannabinoids, particularly CBG, is ongoing, and our comprehension of their complete impacts and benefits is progressively advancing.
Prevalence in the Hemp Plant
Both CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBG (Cannabigerol) exist in the hemp plant, but their abundance levels vary considerably. This is attributed to their production and accumulation processes within the plant.
CBD, a dominant cannabinoid in hemp, is cultivated to have high CBD and low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol – the psychoactive element) levels.
CBD’s concentration in hemp fluctuates, but it usually represents a substantial part of the plant’s cannabinoid composition.
CBD’s prevalent nature makes it more accessible and economically feasible for extraction, leading to its widespread use in products like oils, tinctures, edibles, and topical solutions.
Conversely, CBG is labeled a “minor cannabinoid” due to its relatively low concentration in hemp.
CBG acts as a precursor to cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. In the cannabis plant’s early stages, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) transforms into other acidic cannabinoids, which then convert into THC and CBD. As the plant ages, CBG levels decrease.
CBG’s typical concentration in hemp is under 1%, making it a rarer and more expensive cannabinoid. Advanced breeding and cultivation methods are being developed to enhance CBG content in hemp strains.
Non-Psychoactive Nature
Both CBD and CBG, derived from the hemp plant, are known as compounds without any psychoactive effects, meaning they don’t induce the “high” associated with THC, marijuana’s psychoactive ingredient.
CBD usage typically leads to feelings of calmness or relaxation rather than euphoria or intoxication. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors but does not bind to them as THC does. CBD’s properties make it appealing for therapeutic uses without mind-altering effects.
Like CBD, CBG doesn’t induce a high. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system differs from THC’s. CBG is thought to interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors in a unique manner, preventing any psychoactive effects.
Preliminary studies suggest CBG may have therapeutic benefits without causing intoxication.
Possible Health Benefits of CBG And CBD
The following is an account of the health benefits of CBD and CBG:
- CBG Benefits
CBG is a GABA reuptake inhibitor so it relaxes your nervous system and alleviates neurological issues. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, and neuroprotective potentials to improve your well-being.
- CBD Benefits
CBD exhibits an incredible interplay with the cannabinoid receptors. It modulates the TRPV1 receptors that help relieve pain. CBD possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and anxiolytic potentials to revive your well-being.
- Synergistic Effects of CBD And CBG
Using CBD and CBG for anxiety, inflammation, pain, and other medical conditions helps you enjoy an enhanced efficacy due to the synergistic interaction of the cannabinoids. This entourage effect leads to increased benefits. Enjoy a personalized experience by tailoring the two cannabinoids in the right proportions according to the medical conditions you’re planning to cure.
Final Thoughts
As you head to a CBD store, look for products that intricately combine other cannabinoids like CBG and CBN. These products open an all-new avenue to explore the potential synergetic effects and healing abilities of cannabinoids.
Michael Levin is a CBD enthusiast, a researcher, writer and editor in the cannabis space, experienced CBD user and educator. He believes CBD can help improve our overall health and wellbeing.
