Cannabigerol: An Overview of a Lesser-Known Cannabinoid
In an effort to continue educating our loyal patients and readers, we wish to elaborate on the many different compounds, formally known as cannabinoids, that are found in marijuana. While the majority of cannabis enthusiasts are already familiar with Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD), not everyone knows that these are only 2 of the 85 known cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant. If you’ve been following along with our previous blog posts, you probably have a better understanding of additional compounds such as Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA). In this week’s article, allow us to dive in and elaborate on another; Cannabigerol, or CBG.
How is Cannabigerol Made?
Whenever learning about a new cannabinoid found in marijuana, the first question on most people’s minds is usually “Is it psychoactive?”, meaning does it get you high. Cannabigerol is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, so it won’t provide the same “stoned” effect like that of products whose primary compound is THC. CBG is only considered to be a minor cannabinoid, containing less than 1% THC in the entire cannabinoid. CBG is actually the parent compound of both CBD and THC.
Cannabis plants produce an acid known as Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA) which is the derivative of the three main lines of cannabinoids. The enzymes in the plant break down the CBGA and turn it into one of the three strains of cannabinoids. When those acids are exposed to UV light and/or heat, they become the THC and CBD strains that we are familiar with.
During this process, THC and CBD is almost immediately transformed in THCA or CBDA. What you need to be familiar with is that the more THC you have in the compound, the less CBD and CBG you will have. So there is an inverse relationship between THC vs. CBD and CBG. Geneticists and breeders are currently running experiments to find ways that they can more effectively and efficiently extract more CBG in the process.
What Form Does CBG Come In?
CBG can come in a variety of different forms. But since it is extracted from cannabis three-quarters of the way through the growth process, it isn’t yet plausible to smoke a plant with the main compound being CBG. However, fairly high ratios can be found in capsules and oils that can be ingested simply by adding it to tea or water.
What Effects Does it Have on the Body?
Now that we’ve established that Cannabigerol is non-psychoactive and won’t produce a high, what impact does it have on the body? Similarly to CBD, it has shown promise in reducing inflammation, stress in the body, and treating chronic pain in medical marijuana (MMJ) patients. But just like the other lesser-known cannabinoids, research is still in its infant stages on the full medicinal potential it contains.
What Symptoms/Conditions Can CBG Treat?
Cannabigerol can help alleviate a variety of conditions in the body in the following ways:
- – Relieves pressure in the eyes caused by glaucoma
- – Decreases inflammation of the bowels and digestive system
- – Slows the effects of Huntington’s Disease
- – Helps fight cancer
- – Acts as an effective antibacterial
As scientific and medical studies continue going forward, we will be happy to update you on the latest research conducted on Cannabigerol as well as the many other cannabinoids found in marijuana. MedWell Health & Wellness Centers prioritizes the well-being of all of our patients by providing consistent educational items regarding the cannabis plant and its wonderful healing capabilities. To receive the latest updates in the world of medical marijuana, be sure to subscribe to our mailing list!
