CBG, or Cannabigerol, is often referred to as the “mother” or the “stem cell” from which all other cannabinoids, like THC and CBD come. Officially considered a “minor cannabinoid,” CBG is one of the most abundant compounds found in the hemp plant’s flowering stage. With enormous therapeutic promise, there are studies that show CBG as useful on its own. It may help reduce inflammation, combat pain and even slow the growth of some cancer cells.

How is CBG different?

Unlike CBD, CBG may elicit its therapeutic effects through interaction with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain. CBG can also work as a buffer to THC’s psychoactivity. It can even alleviate the feelings of paranoia that sometimes come with consumption of high levels of THC.

Why is CBG more expensive?

Dubbed “the Rolls-Royce” of cannabinoids, CBG is one of the most expensive cannabinoids to produce. This is because it makes up one percent of  a standard hemp plant after harvesting. Manufacturers usually have to go through thousands of pounds of hemp biomass to extract a tiny vial of pure CBG oil. Specialized extraction machinery is also needed to accurately separate this molecule. Small bottles of CBG tincture often sell for anywhere between $50 to $200 each. A more affordable alternative may be hemp oils and tinctures with CBG mixed with other cannabinoids.

How is CBG extracted from hemp?

In the hemp plant’s beginning stages of growth, scientists can usually find a significant amount of CBG in its acidic state (aka CBG-A). As the plant matures, CBG-A often transforms into other cannabinoids like CBD-A, THC-A and CBC-A. To get higher yields of CBG, specialist plant breeders have begun experimenting with genetic manipulation. The ideal extraction window is somewhere between six-to-eight weeks in the flowering cycle. This helps preserve the highest amounts of CBG. By cutting the plant before CBG-A transforms, there’s a better chance of extracting higher quantities of CBG with less hemp.

What effects does CBG have on the brain and body?

CBG does not make you feel high. It gives you a clear-headed but functional feeling. Just the right amount of euphoria without being lethargic. Some say it’s better than CBD or THC for dealing with anxiety. It may counteract the paranoid and intense feelings that THC can make people feel. CBG also appears to boost production of the natural endocannabinoid anandamide. This chemical can increase dopamine, which helps regulate mood, sleep and appetite.

Is CBG more powerful than CBD?

CBG is like CBD in terms of its health effects, but some research indicates that it may be more potent. Research is relatively sparse on the therapeutic benefits of CBG, when compared to the wealth of information available on THC and CBD. CBG shows much promise as an antibacterial agent and an anti-inflammatory. CBG can effectively fight the inflammation in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. It is also a vasodilator. This means it can help control high blood pressure and lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Like CBD, CBG is also a neuroprotectant. It encourages the development of healthy neural pathways. Some research suggests that CBG can help relieve symptoms of neurological diseases like Huntington’s and Parkinson’s. Lab studies reveal that CBG can block cancer growth, specifically colorectal cancer cells. It may also be a potent pain reliever and antidepressant.

CBG oil and other products

CBG oil is available as tinctures. Other products in the consumer market containing CBG include:

• Toothpaste

• Cosmetic beauty creams

• Protabs (orally swallowed pills)

• Tablinguals (pills designed to dissolve under your tongue)

CBG Protab can work very well at alleviating panic or anxiety. CBG is also available as salve, gum, capsules and cartridges for vaping or smoking.

High-quality CBG production

Arbor Vita8 helps farmers grow the best hemp crop possible to yield the finest CBG. Beginning with quality genetics, our extensive support and services guides you all the way through to selling your CBG for the highest possible profit. We’re able to help our partner farmers every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more.