The Potential Benefits of Cannabigerol (CBG)

January 2022 by Sandy Yanez

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a lesser-known cannabinoid and the precursor or mother to all other cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. CBG is often compared to CBD due to the similar effects, but as it turns out, CBG may be more powerful than CBD.

Millions of people in the U.S. are currently using cannabis to heal ailments and to boost their mood. THC’s euphoric effects have been given credit for the uplifting results, when in fact, the feel-good sensation may be from CBG instead. As scientists isolate and test CBG, it is becoming clear that this molecule can support boosts in euphoria, mood, and positive feelings.

First discovered in 1964, this non-intoxicating cannabinoid is seeing an increase of attention from researchers, producers, and consumers. CBG may be considered a minor cannabinoid when it comes to the percentage it makes up in cannabis plants, but it plays a very important role in the development of the other cannabinoids. As mentioned above, CBG is the precursor to the other cannabinoids, and this is a great example of how no one cannabinoid is more important than the others, no matter their levels.

Therapeutic Potential

Like CBD, another feel-good cannabinoid, CBG can dampen down the troublesome effects from consuming too much THC, like anxiety and paranoia. CBG and CBD also interact with the same receptors in the body and have anti-inflammatory effects. CBG has been shown to be more powerful than THC when it comes to inhibiting the enzymes that produce inflammation.

 

Because CBG makes up less than 1% in many strains it is considered one of the minor cannabinoids and since it is the precursor to THC and CBD, research has been limited, but studies do exist.

The following conditions may be improved with CBG:

  • CBG shows potential as a neuroprotectant with Huntington’s disease, and that it may be helpful in other neurodegenerative conditions, according to a 2015 study on mice.
  • A 2018 study found that CBG may reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and the expansion of certain proteins related to neuroinflammation.
  • CBG may reduce the growth of cancer cells and other tumors according to a 2014 study, while a 2018 study found CBG was able to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells and slow the progression of the disease in the process. In a 2021 study, CBG inhibited glioblastoma (a very aggressive cancer) invasion in a similar manner to CBD and the chemotherapeutic temozolomide.
  • A 2008 study suggests that CBG may reduce intraocular pressure due to its vasodilator properties and has neuroprotective effects. These effects may lessen the problems caused by glaucoma.
  • Research indicates that CBG may be an effective antibacterial agent against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), that causes drug-resistant staph infections.
  • A 2015 study looked at how five different cannabinoids affect the bladder, and it concluded that CBG shows the most promise at treating bladder dysfunctions.
  • CBG may be beneficial for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, as shown in a study done on mice in 2013.
  • CBG is a 5-HTA1 serotonin receptor antagonist and is being look at for treating post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD)
  • Two studies from 2016 and 2018 suggests that CBG can stimulate the appetite aiding in eating disorders like cachexia or wasting syndrome.

While these results are promising, CBG research is in its early stages. Human research is lacking, and conclusive evidence is not yet available. One thing is for sure, CBG is sure to keep researchers busy for some time as they unravel its mysteries and continue to test its therapeutic use.

References

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