Cannabigerol otherwise known as CBG is one of the over 100 known cannabinoid compounds in the Cannabis family of plants. I’m sure you’re reading this because you have some questions about this relatively new consumer cannabinoid on the block and those questions will be answered below.
Where Does CBG Come From?
As cannabis plants grow, a compound known as CBGA, which is an acidic form of CBG undergoes conversion to become THCA, CBDA and CBCA. There are some amounts of CBGA in the cannabis that isn’t converted to THCA, CBDA or CBCA and it is from this that CBG is derived. Because of how CBG is formed, there is often very little found in cannabis plants, in most cases less than 1%.
Scientists have devised ways in order to get the highest yield of CBG from cannabis plants. One of which is identifying the best window in which to extract CBG. Week 6, of an 8 week flowering cycle has been deemed the best time to extract CBG, a process which is purportedly being used in the production of Bediol by Bedrocan.
Does CBG Have Any Medical Benefits?
CBG is believed to have a number of health benefits. Some of these benefits have been investigated in published research. A 2015 study done on mice showed that CBG was effective in treating Huntington’s disease. The study showed improved motor functions in mice treated with CBG. For reference, Huntington’s is characterized by progressive deterioration of nerves in the brain which result in eventually loss of mental and motor (physical) functions.
As early as the 1950s cannabis has been known to be effective in the treatment of skin infections. At the time however, scientists weren’t privy to the chemical composition of the plant. It has been found that. There is now evidence that CBG works as an effective antibacterial agent against MRSA. Additionally there are studies showing CBG might be effective in treating glaucoma, cancer, bladder dysfunction, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), and appetite loss.
Does CBG Have Any Side-Effects?
CBG is not known to have any adverse effects on humans, but it’s also key to note that there have been no clinical trials on humans. However, it is generally advised that CBG is treated like CBD and note possible drug interactions. CBD is known to interact with a number of pharmaceutical drugs much like how they interact with grapefruit. It is therefore advised that you avoid drugs that warn against the consumption of grapefruit. There is an extensive list of such drugs which includes drugs from the following categories, blood pressure medication, antibiotics, anti-cancer medications, and medications used to treat arrhythmias just to name a few. It would be wise of you to have a conversation with your doctor to find out if CBGs are right for you. After all, you don’t want to try CBGs for their health benefits and instead get ill.
Is CBG Legal?
CBG is not among the 1971 schedule of UN Convention of Psychotropic Substances. CBG has also never been scheduled as a controlled substance. In reviewing the United States’ Substance Control Act, one can see that CBG is not deemed a controlled substance, providing that it is not derived from controlled parts of cannabis plants. The Farm Bill, passed into law in 2018 by Donald Trump, legalized CBD derived from Hemp plants which contained minimal THC, no more than 0.3%. CBG sourced from hemp is therefore considered legal. It is however advised that you consult your local authorities regarding CBG and whether it is legal in your jurisdiction.
How Can I Get CBG?
CBG is found in trace amounts in hemp plants which make it quite rare. CBG can be had as full-spectrum and whole plant extractions both of which contain trace amounts of THC, CBD, and CBC. CBC can also be had as isolates and carbon dioxide extractions, which is essentially pure CBG containing no THC or any other plant compounds.
CBC can be bought online but be sure to remember that CBG is not regulated by the FDA because it is sold as a supplement and because of this, you never know what you’re getting. A 2017 study shows that labels for cannabinoid products often misrepresent what’s inside with 43% having more cannabinoid than stated, 26% had 26 less than indicated while others had THC that was not listed among the ingredients. So do make your purchases taking this into consideration. Do remember, CBG is expensive to produce and therefore this will have a direct impact on the price of CBG products.
Conclusion
CBG is fast becoming popular, but being the new kid on the block research is still fairly limited. If you’re considering to try CBG be sure to consult with your primary care physician to find out if CBG is safe for you.