The similarities, differences and effects of CBG and CBD oil.
CBD oil is one of the most popular wellness staples, but as of late, a once mysterious cannabinoid is garnering some buzz: CBG, or “cannabigerol”.
Both CBG and CBD share many similarities—they’re non-intoxicating, and have shown promise as possible treatments for anxiety, pain and infection. At the same time, there are many nuances.
So, what’s better? CBG or CBD oil? Let’s take a closer look to determine if one reigns supreme. (Spoiler alert: we love them both!)
What is CBD?
CBD, a.k.a “cannabidiol”, is a neuroprotective compound extracted from the cannabis plant. It has a high safety profile, and a wealth of purported benefits that may help restore balance in the body, targeting the brain and nervous system. We’re talking anxiety management, improved sleep, pain reduction, mood regulation, and more.
As it stands, clinical trials and anecdotal accounts suggest CBD may be a treatment for conditions, including epilepsy, dementia, alopecia, and PTSD, among others. Doctors are prescribing CBD for a wide range of conditions with extremely positive results that are changing people's lives.
What is CBG?
CBG is commonly referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids”. It’s the foundational compound from which all other cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) are formed. CBG is usually extracted from young cannabis plants at around 6 weeks into the 8 week growing cycle, when it’s most abundant.
Early research points out that CBG may have the ability to treat neurological disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis and Huntington’s Disease. It’s also being studied for its potential to regulate blood pressure, minimize pain, inflammation, and provide antidepressant and antibacterial effects. Like CBD, it’s being investigated for anti-cancer properties.
What are the differences between CBG and CBD?
For one, they interact with the body differently. We all have receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates main functions, including mood, sleep and pain. There are two types of receptors: CB1 and CB2. The former are found in the nervous system and brain, while the latter are located in the immune system and other parts of the body. CBD binds to CB2 receptors, whereas CBG is said to work with both, therefore impacting the ECS as a whole.
Secondly, CBD and CBG are found in different quantities in the cannabis plant. Most fully developed plants are estimated to contain around 1% CBG, and up to 25% CBD. This is why CBG products are scarce—but, there are some innovative farmers working to produce high CBG crops.
CBG vs. CBD oil
Frankly, they’re both pretty amazing; CBD and CBG oil have great potential as therapeutic agents. At the end of the day, it depends on the results you’re seeking. Some research suggests that using CBD and CBG together may deliver optimal benefits, and boost your ECS more effectively.
In case you didn’t know, oHHo harnesses the benefits of CBG and CBD. Check out our full spectrum Recovery Balm—and while you’re at it, learn more about cannabinoids here!
