What is CBG Used For? Understanding the Basics
Published 3:57 pm Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Introduction
Look out for cannabigerol (CBG), a lesser-known, but no-less-notable cannabis cousin whose wellness star is on the rise. Chances are you’ve heard of her wonderful, wonderful siblings: THC and CBD. But CBG, an organic, market-ready, presumed anti-inflammatory jack-of-all-trades, is a cannabinoid worth knowing. And it’s definitely time we got to know her better. So, what exactly is CBG oil? Where does it come from? Is there any research to support the CBG hype train? What forms does the compound come in – oil only, or gummies and capsules too? Yep, all good questions. We’ve got you covered.
Understanding CBG
One of the more than 100 cannabinoids of the cannabis plant as far apart as big as a catfish is cannabigerol (CBG). CBG is a member of a small group, the parent cannabinoids – as they are commonly called, more precisely mother cannabinoid, because it is the precursor from which the other two cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are formed. Usually in small quantities it can be found in most cannabis varieties (because in the ripening course, it changes to those others), and it was only recently found as to its own value and with some benefits to health.
Where Does CBG Come From?
Since young cannabis plants have a high level of CBG, that is the source from which it is extracted. Throughout the growing and maturation process, CBG is converted into other cannabinoids: as the plant outgrows its seedlings and starts to sprout leaves, buds and flowers, the proportion of other cannabinoids such as THC, grows. Indeed, CBG is so scarce in natural flowering buds that it’s very expensive to make. Though it sounds straightforward, obtaining CBG requires first separating it from the plant mass and various plant parts in which it accumulates, a process usually done using exclusively green chemistry techniques such as CO₂ extraction, which, in turn, produce a purer, more potent end product.
Research into CBG
The body of CBG research is still relatively small compared with that on CBD and THC, but more and more studies suggest that CBG could be beneficial for many of the same health conditions as CBD and more by offering the following benefits, among others:
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBG has been found to reduce inflammation, making it potentially useful for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
- Neuroprotective Effects: Research suggests CBG may help protect nerve cells, offering potential benefits for neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease.
- Antibacterial Qualities: CBG has shown promise as a powerful antibacterial agent, particularly against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA.
- Appetite Stimulation: CBG may stimulate appetite, which could be beneficial for individuals experiencing weight loss due to certain medical conditions.
CBG Products Available Online: Oils, Capsules, and Gummies
As more consumers have become accustomed to the idea of CBG, and its possibility, a whole new range in products has started appearing. In this article we examine a few of the more common.
CBG Oil
Another one of the most popular ways to purchase CBG is in a CBG oil. This is typically taken sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption. One benefit of CBG oil is that it can be put into food or drinks or taken directly. It can also come in a range of concentrations making it much easier for you to take your preferred dose.
CBG Capsules
CBG capsules might serve as an easy option for those who can’t stomach oil held under the tongue, or inhalation, and can provide a set amount that is easy to build into an existing supplement regimen. Capsules are discreet, easily stow-able for on the go dosing, and spare you from the CBG oil taste test if that’s not your thing.
CBG Gummies
Flavored and formulated into edible gummies, CBG gummies are a delicious, versatile way to get your CBG and are ideal for the cannabinoid curious or for a sweet over a supplement.
The Final Words About CBG
Whether you opt for CBG oil, CBG gummies or CBG capsules, you can count on CBG products to be an excellent complement to your wellness regimen. As scientists learn more about CBG’s health benefits, CBG will eventually reap the full rewards of that research and become a fully-fledged – as well as science-backed – supplement.