CBG vs. CBD: Differences, Therapeutic Benefits, and Safety
The world of cannabinoids is still open and wide, with extensive research and studies. New information is found on this natural substance now and then. Among them, findings on CBG and CBD are quite phenomenal.
CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) are extracted from the cannabis plant. However, these two compounds possess different properties, while both of them render distinct functions and applications.
If you’re interested in knowing about CBG and CBD, you’re in the right spot. This article describes the differences between CBG and CBD while elaborating on their therapeutic benefits.
Let’s dive in.
First Off: What Are Cannabinoids?
Knowing about the CBG vs. CBD, in essence, must start with their source, the cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds available in the cannabis plant.
Different cannabinoid compounds offer different effects on the human system. Among them, the most notorious compound is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) due to its ‘high’ effect on the brain.
Another well-known and beneficial cannabinoid compound is CBD, which is beneficial for its therapeutic effects.
However, a recent craze has been drawn to another compound called CBG, the mother cannabinoid, which we’re going to identify next.
CBG (Cannabigerol): The Newfound Potential
CBG is also known as the mother cannabinoid. This is because the mature cannabis plant’s CBG compound can be transformed into other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. If you’re interested in exploring the potential benefits and appropriate dosages of CBG, you can find valuable insights and guidance on CBG dose at reputable online sources.
Although CBG is still undergoing extensive research for valuable information, some initial studies say it can offer therapeutic benefits in several medical areas.
Some vital areas where CBG may prove effective are:
- Antibacterial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Neuroprotective
Studies also say that CBG may prove effective in treating IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) or glaucoma. Moreover, products like CBG Revive Gummies and others offer a range of health benefits like mood elevation, boosting energy, etc.
CBD (Cannabidiol): Gentle But Highly Effective
Compared to CBG, which is still taking steps in the healthcare research arena, CBD is making waves in the wellness industry. Often misunderstood as an agent of a ‘high’ effect, CBD is quite safe and amazingly therapeutic.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t ingest the psychoactive effects in the brain, which is responsible for the so-called ‘high’ effect. That’s why CBD is widely accepted for its beneficial properties.
From regular users to athletes, people are tending to CBD consumption to revive their health and improve mental conditions.
Fortunately, findings from many studies on CBD verify its therapeutic products, CBD oil, CBD gummies, etc. CBD products relieve people from stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, chronic pain, epilepsy, etc.
Technically, the CBD works well with the human system. It interacts with the ECS (Endocannabinoid System), a critical receptor network in the body. Thus, CBD renders homeostasis and balance in the human body.
CBG Vs. CBD: Differential Characteristics
Naturally, both CBG and CBD share the same origin. They come from the Cannabis Sativa L. plant, so they possess similar properties.
However, studies have found some key differences regarding their chemical structures and potency. Below, we’ve shed some light on those areas:
- Chemical Structure
Structurally, CBG doesn’t contain the cyclic ring structure that’s found in CBD. This trait makes CBG unique in the cannabinoid world. This structural distinction may be responsible for its unique interaction with the body’s receptors.
Conversely, CBD’s structure is more complex compared to the CBG’s. It also differs in its diverse effects on the body due to its interaction with the ECS.
- Interactions of Receptors
As per research, CBG usually interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS. CB1 receptors can be found in the CNS (Central Nervous System). On the other hand, CB2 receptors dwell mostly in the immune cells and peripheral tissues.
CBD, compared to CBG, has an indirect interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD doesn’t attach to or bind with the ECS; instead, it impacts it by enhancing the endocannabinoid effect in the body.
- Therapeutic Benefits
As mentioned earlier, CBG is promising in bacterial infections, inflammation, and neuroprotective activities. Studies further suggest that CBG might have the potential to have anti-cancer properties.
On the other hand, CBD is potent in treating various physical and mental conditions, such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, epilepsy, etc. Hence, users mostly love CBD for its safety profile and versatility in treatments.
- Entourage Effect
CBG contributes to the entourage effect. An entourage effect is something where all cannabis compounds work together to modulate the psychoactive effects. Thus, the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids are enhanced.
Similarly, CBD also contributes to the entourage effect. It interacts with the other compounds of cannabinoids, which maximizes the therapeutic effects in the body.
Therapeutic Potential of Cbg and CBD
In this section, we’ll try to figure out the therapeutic potential of both CBG and CBD.
CBG’s Potential Impact on Health
Although CBG needs to go through extensive research for more conclusive evidence, there are promising health benefits on the horizon, such as:
- Containing Neuroprotective Properties
There are researches that indicate CBG may offer neuroprotective effects in humans. This sounds promising as it can be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s.
- Containing Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Some preliminary studies on CBG have shown that it may possess anti-inflammatory properties. It means CBG may be used in treating various conditions with inflammation, such as IBS or arthritis.
- Potential in Glaucoma Management
CBG is believed to manage intraocular pressure. Intraocular pressure is a vital factor in glaucoma, a severe eye condition. Although the research is in the initial stage, CBG’s promising capacity in managing intraocular pressure may open paths to save many sufferers from such a critical eye condition.
- Promising Antibacterial Function
As per studies, CBG contains antibacterial properties. This makes the researchers hope for a potential formula against bacteria that resist antibiotic agents. Consequently, drug-resistant infections may be treated well.
Cbd’s Potential Impact on Health
CBD’s popularity and acceptance among numerous people from different walks of life prove its potential and positive impact on lives. Some noteworthy health benefits of CBD are:
- A Popular Choice for Pain Management
CBD has the potential to treat various pains in the body. Chronic pain sufferers may be relieved by using CBD products since CBD contains analgesic properties.
CBD interacts with the ECS receptors to reduce pain. It’s good news for those seeking alternatives to traditional medicines to treat chronic body aches.
- Treating Depression and Anxiety
CBD is popular due to its anxiety-reducing effects. It’s also good for treating depression. CBD is known to interact with the brain’s serotonin receptors while positively impacting emotions and moods.
- Improving Sleep Quality
Unlike the ‘high’ effect of THC, CBD offers a calming effect in the brain, which helps the users fall asleep quicker. People who are struggling with insomnia may incorporate CBD into their wellness routine.
- Treating Seizure and Epilepsy
CBD has shown a breakthrough in treating epilepsy. A CBD medication called Epidiolex was approved to remedy certain seizures. It’s the anticonvulsant properties in CBD that help to control and improve epilepsy conditions in people.
- Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects
For its exhibition of anti-inflammatory effects like CBG, CBD is a well-known alternative to traditional medicines for treating inflammatory conditions. People who have rheumatoid arthritis are often into using CBD to improve their condition.
Choosing the Right CBG and CBD Products
Since cannabis can help reduce stress and anxiety, today, stores are packed with myriads of CBG and CBD products. So, it’s hard to choose the right products.
Consider the following factors before buying a CBG or CBD product:
- Type of Product
Various forms and types of CBG and CBD products include capsules, topicals, oils, edibles, etc. So, consider which form or type of product you want to consume before purchasing one.
- Dosage
Starting at a lower dosage of any form of the cannabinoid product is a wise move. Over time, you may modify the dosage or change the product form if you’re not getting the expected results.
- Isolate Or Full-Spectrum
Isolate denotes products with a single compound concentration. Conversely, full-spectrum products consist of both CBG and CBD compounds. Naturally, full-spectrum CBD or CBG products will offer a wider range of benefits for their synergistic effects.
- Sources and Quality
Always choose CBD or CBG products based on third-party lab testing criteria. Check the source, whether the CBD or CBG extraction was sourced back to organic hemp plants, ensuring a better quality in potential effects.
Safety and Legal Concerns
Consider the regulations of the state or city on cannabinoid product usage. Also, learn about their safety concerns before using these products.
Legal Status
The 2018 Farm Bill in the US legalized hemp-derived CBD products. However, CBG products’ legality may not be the same in all states. So, check with your local regulations on both CBD and CBG products before using them.
3rd-Party Testing
Check third-party testing, a vital procedure in manufacturing CBG and CBD products. Besides, make sure to check the CoA (Certificate of Analysis) with the products, delineating cannabinoid content, contaminant-free declaration, terpene profile, etc.
Side-Effects
There may be a few users with natural intolerance toward certain cannabinoid compounds. Some side effects due to using cannabinoid products may include dry mouth, shift in appetite, drowsiness, etc.
Professional Advice
You should take professional advice before incorporating CBD or CBG products into your wellness routine. Each human system is unique.
So, consult a professional healthcare provider so he can guide you toward responsible consumption of cannabinoid products to deal with pain, stress, and other conditions.
Final Thoughts
The dynamic duo, CBG, and CBD, promise to be a holistic approach in the healthcare industry. Their compounds work in balance to get the maximum health benefits with minimum side effects.
Additional research is required for more insightful findings on their immense potential effects, including synergistic function with other natural compounds like terpenes.
Don’t go about voraciously taking CBG or CBD products. Instead, consult an experienced professional healthcare provider to have a guided prescription on these cannabinoids.
