CBG (Cannabigerol)

CBG (Cannabigerol)

Cannabinoids & The ECS

The term cannabinoid refers to the 100+ known chemicals that react with the human body through the endocannabinoid system, known as the ECS.  Cannabinoids are natural compounds which attach and react with receptors in the body. There are two types of cannabinoids, Phytocannabinoids and Endocannabinoids.  Phytocannabinoids refer to types of cannabinoids which originate in plants and herbs, including but not limited to: clove, black pepper, echinacea and ginseng, and cannabis. Endocannabinoids refer to cannabinoids that are found naturally inside the humans and mammals.

Researchers have identified two primary receptors in the endocannabinoid system, CB1 and CB2, which are located in the central and peripheral nervous system. These receptors are responsible for regulating many of our body’s natural processes including immune response, appetite and metabolism, sleep, memory, and much more.

The most prevalent endocannabinoid is Anandamide.  Anandamide is found primarily in the CB1 & CB2 receptors located throughout the body. When phytocannabinoids are introduced to anandamide, the body creates positive physiological responses, including reduced anxiety, reduced inflammation and better mood control.   

The most commonly known phytocannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), but there are several others that researchers are studying with hopes that cannabinoid based medicines could combat some of our most common ailments that humans suffer from. The ECS, only discovered in 1988, is now known to be an integral part of how the body functions.  

What is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive compound primarily found in low THC strains of Cannabis, such as hemp.  Like all cannabinoids, this compound reacts with receptors in the human body to promote homeostasis, and provide numerous benefits to our vital functions as mammals. Cannabigerol has historically been found in very small quantities in cannabis and hemp cultivars.  However, plant breeders today have created strains specific for CBG production and several strains boast 20% CBG, making this cannabinoid widely available for formulation in consumer products.

CBG is sometimes viewed as a “stem cell” in cannabinoid production.  All cannabinoids begin as Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGa) and through biosynthesis, CBGa is converted to all the other cannabinoids found in hemp – CBD, THC, CBC, CBG and more.

What is CBG good for?

Glaucoma Treatment

Multiple studies have concluded that regardless of delivery method, cannabinoids and CBG in particular, significantly reduce intraocular pressure of the eye while increasing blood flow.  CBG displays neuroprotectant and vasodilation properties which make it a viable treatment for people with glaucoma. The efficacy of cannabinoids for intraocular pressure is believed to be a result of the high presence of cannabinoid receptors within the eyes.  

Neuron Protectant

In a 2015 study of mice, it was observed that CBG acted as a powerful neuroprotectant, and also improved the mice antioxidant defenses.  This has led to further research into the possibility of using CBG as a treatment for Huntington’s disease.

Antibacterial 

In 2008, a study was conducted to test the efficacy of cannabinoids as an antibacterial to combat MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).  CBG, as well as the other 4 cannabinoids tested, all showed potent and effective activity against a variety of MRSA strains. These findings are very promising as MRSA is an incredibly difficult infection to treat as it is highly resistant to antibiotics.

Cancer Growth Inhibitor

In a study conducted by Oxford researchers in 2015, it was noted that CBG inhibited the growth of numerous types of colon cancer cells when administered. “In vivo, CBG inhibited the growth of xenograft tumors as well as chemically induced colon carcinogenesis.” In a separate study it was observed that CBG and CBC (cannabichromene) induced a significantly higher rate of necrosis in cancer cells compared to other cannabinoids. 

Appetite Stimulant

It is widely known that cannabinoids can have a stimulating effect on people’s appetite. CBG in particular has been shown to reduce latency between feeding in rats, as well as increase the number of meals consumed. More research will show if CBG will become a regular treatment for patients going through chemotherapy, or suffering from cachexia. 

Anti-Inflammatory

Scientists are currently researching the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and other inflammatory diseases, with CBG and CBGa (cannabigerolic acid).  CBG has shown to be effective in reducing oxidative stress, and reducing inflammatory markers in test subjects.  It has also been a powerful anti-inflammatory when used as treatment for subjects with Psoriasis.  This opens the possibility of treating other dermatological conditions with CBG and other cannabinoids.

How do you consume CBG?

CBG is typically offered in distillate or isolate form.  In distillate form, there are other cannabinoids present, not just CBG.  But in isolate form, there is usually only CBG, at least 98% pure CBG.  They most common way to consume CBG is to dissolve it with a carrier oil such as MCT oil, just like any other CBD tincture, and take it underneath the tongue on a daily basis.  Others consumers report that vaporizing CBG shatter or wax provides immediate relief from anxiety and stress.  CBG can be incorporated into food recipes or added into several drinks.  Some companies provide capsules, patches, topicals and creams, and even candy infused with CBG.  Keep in mind that CBG is oil based and will not mix well with water based liquids. 

It is also not uncommon for people to roll up a CBG cigarette or joint, or pack some CBG in a bowl and smoke it.  Users report quick onset of relief when inhaling CBG, but keep in mind that smoking anything comes with increased health risks.  IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR OR MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL BEFORE STARTING OR USING CBG, OR ANY OTHER CANNABINOIDS.

Where can you buy CBG online?

High quality CBG isolate and distillate can be purchased online at https://www.buycbdoilonline.com/product-category/cbg-and-cbn.  CBG is sold as individual grams or is available for purchase in bulk quantities.  Certificates of Analysis are included on our product page.  Contact us at info@buycbdoilonline.com with any questions.