Cannabigerol (CBG) is a type of cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It’s often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids." This is because other cannabinoids are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG. Just like how stem cells are the precursors to all of the body’s other cells, CBG works the same way. CBG is the main element that the other cannabinoids are created from, commonly being referred to as the 'stem cell' cannabinoid.
CBG is found in smaller quantities than other cannabinoids in cannabis plants, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This makes consumer products derived from cannabigerol rare and often expensive. However, CBG is growing in popularity because of the many potential benefits the cannabinoid offers.
How CBG Works
CBG is processed by the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is made up of molecules and receptors that are responsible for keeping our bodies in an optimal state, regardless of what’s going on in our external environment.
In our bodies, CBG imitates endocannabinoids, the natural compounds our body makes. But it does not have THC's psychotropic effects, so it will not give you a high.
Cannabinoid Receptors in the Body
Our body contains two types of cannabinoid receptors—CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors are located in the immune system and other areas of the body.
CBG works by binding to both receptors, where it’s thought to strengthen the function of anandamide.3 Anandamide is one of many neurotransmitters in the brain. It plays a role in enhancing pleasure and motivation, regulating appetite and sleep, and alleviating pain.
CBG vs CBD
CBG shares many similarities with CBD:
Both act on the endocannabinoid system.
Neither is psychoactive, meaning they don't produce a "high."
Each one can counteract THC's psychotropic effects
Even though both act on the endocannabinoid system. CBG interacts differently with the endocannabinoid system than CBD. CBG binds directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors and might deliver its benefits to the system more efficiently.
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