When it comes to popular cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, CBD and THC are the ones that always come to mind since they are considered major cannabinoids. CBD is popular for its calming effect on the mind and body, while THC is known for the psychoactive "high" that it brings. But other lesser-known cannabinoids are gaining more interest, such as CBG. Hence, it is critical to know the difference between CBD and CBG.
Research has shown that CBD and CBG share similar characteristics - these two cannabinoids have no psychoactive effects and provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties.
But there are specific differences too, which are something to consider when choosing which cannabinoid to use.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is naturally found in high amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. Through the years, the therapeutic properties of CBD have been discovered, particularly its ability to provide relief for symptoms of pain, anxiety, and nausea.
The sedative qualities of CBD are noted as well. It was also discovered that CBD could be used as a treatment for severe cases of childhood epilepsy.
This compound can interact with CB1 and CBC cannabinoid receptors of the body's endocannabinoid system, influencing pain, inflammation, and even sensitivity to heat.
Because of this, CBD has become the cannabinoid of choice for many, especially given its non-psychoactive properties. This is its main difference from THC, which can make one anxious, paranoid, or get impaired cognitive function along with the benefits.
What Is CBG?
Cannabigerol, or CBG, is one of the minor cannabinoids found in cannabis plants and hemp plants. Cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, is produced by young hemp plants. CBGA breaks down into cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) as the plant matures. These two compounds turn into CBD and THC, while the remaining CBGA converts into CBG.
CBG didn't get much attention compared to those other cannabinoids initially, and there were limited studies about it. What's known is that CBG does possess specific therapeutic effects, including pain-relieving effects that can be more effective than THC. CBG is also reported to have antibacterial qualities, work as an antidepressant, and even an anticancer option.
CBG can interact with the endocannabinoid system's CB1 and CB2 receptors, like CBD.
What Are the Differences Between CBD and CBG?
For starters, CBD and CBG have different molecular structures - the way oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon are arranged in the two compounds are different. The molecular structure of a cannabinoid affects how they bind with receptors and their bioavailability.
CBD and CBG also differ in terms of how they activate receptors. A study examining how the two compounds interact with the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor showed that CBD acts as an agonist because of its strong anti-nausea effects while CBG acts as an antagonist.
The two are also different when it comes to how they stimulate one's appetite. A study on rats discovered that CBD reduces food intake significantly, while CBG has made the animals eat twice their usual food intake.
Take your daily CBG easily and conveniently with the CBD/CBG Soft Gels from Apotheca. They are just what you need.
CBD vs. CBG: Therapeutic Benefits
The medical benefits of CBD are very well-known. Aside from the calming relaxation it brings, without the psychoactive high, this prominent cannabinoid can also help alleviate or treat certain chronic pain conditions, hypertension, and digestive health conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Crohn's Disease.
CBD is also helpful as a potential treatment for autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.
Meanwhile, CBG is known for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties. It has also shown potential as an anticancer compound that inhibits the growth of cancer cells. It can also reduce inflammation without causing the high that THC produces.
CBD vs. CBG: Which is Better
It depends on what condition you are trying to treat. If you're dealing with anxiety and other mood disorders, or seizures caused by epilepsy, then CBD is probably the best option for you.
If you're dealing with migraines, hypertension, glaucoma, cancer, and irritable bowel syndrome, then CBG may be better suited to the task.
What Is the Best Way to Take CBD and CBG?
There are lots of products that can make consuming CBD and CBG easy and convenient. One is via tinctures - CBD and CBG extracts can be taken sublingually (under the tongue), orally, or topically.
Because it's easy to use and contains higher concentrations of CBD per serving, tinctures have become the most favored way of taking CBD and CBG. There are also CBG topicals that are meant to alleviate pain, inflammation, and other skin conditions.
A CBG isolate is also an option if you're looking for a pure form of CBG. You can also try full-spectrum CBG oil if you prefer products containing all of the compounds occurring naturally in the hemp plant.
You can take CBG discreetly and conveniently when you use CannaAid Delta 8/CBG Tincture.
Which Is Best for Sleep, CBD or CBG?
Both CBG and CBD are proven effective in helping achieve better sleep, but they work differently. CBD doesn't interact with the CB receptors in the brain, unlike CBG. This means that using CBD will not make you feel tired or groggy.
But CBG effectively reduces stress and anxiety, making it a sensible choice for those with sleeping problems due to stress or anxiety.
CBG vs. CBD: How They Are Used
Both CBD and CBG have similar potential health benefits because they reduce pain sensations in the brain. But CBD is more suited for keeping inflammation in check because it's more potent than CBG, which means you don't need to use as much of the product to achieve the desired effect.
However, CBG is more effective in easing muscle soreness and treating migraines.
The side effects of these cannabinoids are also different. CBD can cause tiredness and fatigue in some users, while CBG can cause dry mouth and elevated heart rate while decreasing blood pressure.
Because of these differences, it's not recommended to mix CBD with CBG in treating health issues. Another essential thing to consider is that the FDA has not yet approved either. It's best to consult with a medical professional before using products with CBD and CBG, especially if you're taking prescription medications, have a medical condition, pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to undergo surgery.
Best Products That Contain Both CBD and CBG
Here are some of your better options if you're looking for hemp-derived products that have CBD or CBG:
CBD Full Spectrum Oils
These broad-spectrum oils have various strengths. They come in delicious flavors such as citrus, mint, cookies & cream, and strawberry. The broad-spectrum oil is produced using the highest quality hemp, and each batch of the oils is made from refined broad-spectrum extract. Some oils are free from dairy, GMOs, and pesticides.
Premium CBD Drops
These oils are meant to calm the body and mind and help keep you focused, whether you are trying to get through a rough day at work or dealing with physical pain. Some of these drops are plant-based, made of organic ingredients, and non-GMO.
These also come in yummy flavors and different strengths, so you will find something for you whether you are an experienced consumer or a newbie.
CBG + Full Spectrum CBD Oils
These oils combine the benefits of full spectrum CBD extract and Cannabigerol (CBG). These are extracted and separated from organically raised hemp that contains more amounts of CBG. These oils are more than 98% pure and tested thoroughly for potency, solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants.
No matter which product you choose, the key is to buy only high-quality products backed by third-party testing that lists all the ingredients and indicates their potency.
FAQ
Does CBG get you higher than CBD?
CBD and CBG are different cannabinoids but have no psychoactive effects, so they won't make you high or feel intoxicated. The difference is that CBD makes you feel relaxed, while CBG is better suited for those who want a cannabinoid that can boost productivity.
What's better for pain, CBD or CBG?
It depends on the kind of pain you are experiencing. CBD works best for treating inflammation due to its non-psychoactive nature, while CBG is better for reducing muscle soreness and treating migraines.
Availability is something to consider, too - since CBD is the most abundant cannabinoid in the hemp market, you may reach for CBD even if you're looking for CBG, a minor cannabinoid.
Is CBG good for nerve pain?
Initial research has shown that CBG acts as an agonist of the CB1 and CB2 receptors without intoxicating effects. CBG may also act as a GABA reuptake inhibitor, which means that CBG may have a relationship with neuropathic pain and inflammatory pain.
Does CBG make you feel good?
CBG works by binding to the body's cannabinoid receptors, which is said to strengthen the function of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that enhances pleasure and motivation. It's also instrumental in regulating appetite and sleep and alleviating pain. CBG has no psychotropic effects, unlike THC, so it will not give you a high.
How long do CBG and CBD stay in your system?
CBG usually shows its effects within minutes, though it may take up to an hour for the full effects to be felt. Those effects vary from person to person but typically last for four to six hours.
CBG and CBD are metabolized by the liver and have a half-life of around two hours. Nevertheless, they could remain for up to four days, depending on how fast your body flushes them out of your system.
How will I know if a CBD tincture has CBG in it?
Look at the product label - if the tincture contains cannabigerol, you should be able to find it printed on the label. Some manufacturers also include information about the product's CBG concentration, which should also be on the label.
An independent third-party lab usually tests the purity and potency of CBD products and presents a Certificate of Analysis. This document shows all of the compounds present in the product. If the CBD tincture doesn't have CBG listed as an ingredient, you can look at the COA of the product to see if CBG is present.
When shopping for CBD products, choose nothing less than those with a COA. This piece of data will give you peace of mind knowing the product meets quality standards and will provide you with information on exactly what's in it.
Buy Only the Best CBD and CBG Products At Apotheca
Are you in Georgia, North Carolina, or Tennessee? Apotheca can give you the best-quality CBD and CBG products you can find. It is our mission to deliver clean, affordable, and sustainable alternatives to modern medicine for people and plants.
Our team researches, tests, and curates cannabis brands that prioritize people before profit. All products that reach our store shelves have been tested for potency and quality. We ensure the safety and quality of the products customers purchase and use.
Our partner brands provide full test documentation and educational materials to support the consumer's purpose of purchasing all-natural products for a healthier lifestyle.
Apotheca provides a safe, secure shopping experience in an industry full of uncertainty. Visit the Apotheca Store Locations to see what's in store for you.
