Everything You Need to Know About CBG: The Mother of All Cannabinoids

Cannabigerol, or CBG, is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Known as the "mother of all cannabinoids," CBG is the precursor to several other cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. Although its concentration is usually low in cannabis plants, CBG is gaining interest for its potential therapeutic benefits.

History of CBG

CBG was first isolated in 1964 by Israeli researchers Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni, who identified its acidic precursor, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). However, it wasn't until the mid-1970s that scientists discovered that CBGA could convert into other cannabinoids, marking the beginning of scientific interest in CBG for medical research.

Effects of CBG

CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a "high." It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, its affinity for these receptors is relatively weak compared to THC and CBD. Additionally, CBG acts on other receptors, including the α2-adrenergic receptor and 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects.

Potential Benefits

Preliminary studies suggest CBG may offer several therapeutic benefits, though most research has been conducted in animal models or in vitro:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: CBG has demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models.
• Neuroprotection: Studies indicate that CBG may protect nerve cells from damage and degeneration, making it a candidate for treating neurodegenerative disorders like Huntington's disease.
• Reduction of intraocular pressure: CBG has been studied for its ability to lower intraocular pressure, potentially benefiting glaucoma patients.
• Antibacterial effects: CBG has shown antimicrobial properties, including effectiveness against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
• Appetite stimulation: Some studies suggest CBG may enhance appetite, which could be useful for individuals with conditions like anorexia or cachexia.

Comparison with THC and CBD

• CBG vs THC: Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychoactive and does not produce intoxicating effects.
• CBG vs CBD: Both cannabinoids share therapeutic properties, but CBG may be more effective for specific conditions, such as neuroprotection and appetite stimulation. However, CBD has been studied more extensively in clinical trials.

Extraction Methods and Usage

• Extraction: CBG is primarily extracted from young cannabis plants, as its concentration decreases as the plant matures and converts into other cannabinoids.
• Forms of Use: CBG is available in tinctures, oils, capsules, and some topical products like creams and balms.

Conclusion

CBG is a promising cannabinoid with significant potential for medical applications. Despite its low natural concentration in cannabis plants, its therapeutic properties make it an important target for scientific research. As more studies emerge, we may see an increase in cannabis strains bred specifically for higher CBG content, offering new possibilities for treating various health conditions.

Sources:

• Appendino, G., et al. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: A structure-activity study. Journal of Natural Products.
• Borrelli, F., et al. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology.
• Brierley, D. I., et al. (2016). Cannabigerol is a novel, well-tolerated appetite stimulant in pre-satiated rats. Psychopharmacology.
• Colasanti, B. K. (1990). Ocular hypotensive effect of cannabinoids: Correlation with antinociceptive activity. Journal of Ocular Pharmacology.
• Mechoulam, R., & Gaoni, Y. (1965). A total synthesis of dl-Δ1-tetrahydrocannabinol. Journal of the American Chemical Society.