CBG (cannabigerol) has been given the distinguished nickname by many as being “the stem cell of cannabis.” The reason is, CBG — the first cannabinoid produced by a cannabis plant — “gives birth” to the cannabinoids THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and CBC (cannabichromene) that go on to produce the other estimated 120 cannabinoids a cannabis plant contains. For this reason, CBG is also referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids.”
Besides CBG’s potential health benefits, another reason CBG is viewed as holding so much promise by many is, like CBD, it produces no psychoactive effects.
After the “birthing” process is completed, there is little CBG left in a typical cannabis plant — usually less than 1 percent. A cannabis crop containing 20 percent CBD would require at least 20 times the biomass to create the equivalent amount of CBG. However, a breeder can increase the level of CBG by harvesting his crop early.
With the growing interest in CBG, more breeders are developing cannabis strains that are high in CBG via cross-breeding and genetic manipulation. That said, most cannabis cultivators — because of the amount of cannabis required for CBG and its more onerous extraction process — are choosing to focus on producing CBD. For consumers, this means you will pay a premium for CBG. However, alternative methods of cultivation and extraction are being developed, which should make CBG more affordable down the road.
Besides CBG’s potential health benefits, another reason CBG is viewed as holding so much promise by many is, like CBD, it produces no psychoactive effects.
What Is CBG Oil?
The quick answer is that CBG oil is cannabis oil made from CBG. However, various forms of cannabis oil contain CBG. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains a small percentage of CBG (and other minor cannabinoids) which gives you the benefit of the entourage effect. Cannabis oil with a higher percentage of CBG is also available — often packaged at a one-to-one ratio with CBD. Plus, some companies sell CBG isolate (98% to 100% pure CBG) but it is extremely expensive. (We found one website selling 500 grams for $2,975!)
CBG may also contribute to easing everyday stress. The findings of an animal study suggest CBG may help and have the potential to uplift mood by modulating the effects of a brain chemical known as GABA. This may be just be another example of CBG interacting with other body systems besides the ECS.
CBG also exhibits GABA uptake inhibition to a greater extent than THC or CBD. A higher level of GABA in your brain means you feel more relaxed and your chances for healthy sleep and relaxation are heightened. Like most cannabinoids, not a lot of study has been done on CBG and its benefits, but of all the minor cannabinoids, it would appear to have the most potential to be a game-changer down the road.
