What is cannabigerol (CBG): origin, characteristics and effects

CBG (cannabigerol) is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids, but its medicinal potential has begun to attract the attention of researchers and healthcare professionals. Although it is found in low concentrations in cannabis plants, CBG plays a key role in the formation of other cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. In this article, we will explore what CBG is, how it is produced in the cannabis plant, its therapeutic properties, and the latest studies on its impact on health.

What is CBG?

If you’ve made it this far wondering what CBG is, you’re not alone. Although it’s not as well-known yet as CBD or THC, CBG is starting to make its way into the world of therapeutic cannabis… and for good reason. This compound, known as cannabigerol, could be considered the “origin of it all.” And that’s no exaggeration.

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesn’t produce mind-altering effects like THC does. But what’s really interesting is that it’s known as the “mother cannabinoid,” as it’s the precursor molecule to other well-known cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, and CBC. In other words, without this cannabinoid, those other compounds wouldn’t exist. 

During the development of the cannabis plant, it gradually transforms into other molecules. That’s why, by the time the plant reaches full maturity, there’s barely 1% of CBG left in its flowers. This scarcity makes it a more difficult cannabinoid to extract and, therefore, more exclusive.

Origin of Cannabigerol

CBG was discovered by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, a renowned cannabis researcher, in 1964. However, it wasn’t until a decade later that CBGA, the acidic form of CBG, was identified. 

So why is this distinction between CBG and its acidic form, CBGA, so important? Because, in reality, CBGA is the starting point of almost everything. It’s like the “base ingredient” from which the cannabis plant creates other, more well-known cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

During the plant’s growth, CBGA naturally transforms into THCA and CBDA, which are the acidic — and not yet active — versions of THC and CBD. In other words, at this stage, the plant doesn’t actually contain THC or CBD, but rather their precursors.

And here’s the interesting part: these acidic compounds don’t turn into their active forms until heat is applied or time passes. This happens, for example, during drying, curing, or when a joint is lit or vaporized. This process is called decarboxylation, and it’s what truly activates the potential of these cannabinoids.

In other words, the process goes like this:

• CBGA first transforms into THCA and CBDA,
• and then, with heat, THCA becomes THC, CBDA becomes CBD,
• and the remaining CBGA turns into CBG.

Benefits and Effects of CBG

After understanding what cannabigerol is, it’s important to explore its medicinal properties and how it can benefit our health. Below, we look at some of the most notable benefits:

Anticancer Properties

CBG has shown promising potential in the fight against cancer. A study conducted in 2009 suggested that CBG could slow down tumor progression, especially in colon cancer, by inhibiting its growth and possibly extending patients’ lives. Although more research is needed, this finding opened new possibilities for cancer treatments.

Analgesic Properties

CBG also has analgesic properties that can relieve pain, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis or pain caused by tumors. Combined with other treatments, cannabigerol can significantly reduce chronic pain, improving patients’ quality of life.

Neuroprotective in Neurodegenerative Diseases

CBG has neuroprotective effects that could be useful in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s disease, and Alzheimer’s. Although there is still no cure for these conditions, CBG might help manage symptoms and slow the progression of neurological damage. However, more research is needed in this area.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

CBG has anti-inflammatory effects that make it useful for treating inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease, which affects the digestive system. CBG targets the molecules responsible for inflammation, helping to reduce it and relieve the associated pain.

Tratment for Glaucoma

In 1990, a study found that cannabigerol could be beneficial for the treatment of glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure. Since the eyes contain several receptors of the endocannabinoid system, CBG helps relieve eye pressure and improve blood flow in the eyes, which could be crucial in preventing vision damage.

Antibacterial Properties

CBG also acts as a natural antibacterial, making it a potential treatment for skin infections. Its effectiveness against resistant bacteria, such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), suggests it could be useful in treating infections that are difficult to manage with traditional antibiotics. Additionally, its antibacterial properties make it promising for conditions like psoriasis.

Relief for Depression and Anxiety

Although THC is known for its effects in treating anxiety and depression, CBG offers the same benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. CBG works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain. By balancing GABA levels, CBG can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Appetite Stimulation

It may be helpful for people suffering from appetite loss due to illnesses such as HIV or cancer treatments. This cannabinoid can stimulate appetite, resulting in a significant improvement in nutrition and quality of life for those facing these conditions.

Differences between CBD and CBG

When it comes to non-psychoactive cannabinoids, CBD usually gets all the attention, but CBG is starting to make its mark thanks to its unique therapeutic profile. Although both do not alter the mind and are considered safe, they act differently in the body and offer specific benefits.

So, CBG or CBD? Or maybe combine both? The truth is, there’s no single answer. It depends on your needs and how your body responds to each one. However, to help you understand their differences better, here is a comparison table between CBG and CBD:

¿Is CBG legal?

Yes, CBG (cannabigerol) is legal in Spain and much of Europe, provided it comes from industrial hemp varieties authorized by the EU and contains less than 0.2% THC, as established by current legislation.

However, there are important nuances to consider:

• Its sale is only allowed as a collectible, cosmetic, or technical product, not as a food supplement or medicine, since it is not approved for oral human consumption.
• Cannabigerol is not a controlled substance in itself, as it is not psychoactive and is not included in drug schedules.
• Legislation may vary depending on the country, even within the European Union.

Cannabigerol-rich strains available at GB The Green Brand

Now that you know what cannabigerol is, you might want to discover some strains that contain this cannabinoid. More and more research is focused on developing varieties with high levels of cannabigerol, since currently most plants have high THC and CBD levels but very low CBG content (usually below 0.1%).

Here are some examples of CBG-rich products (though you can find more in our online store).