CBG in CBD Oil

CBG – the "mother" of cannabinoids: what you should know about one of the most important ingredients in CBD Oil

CBD Oil has become a widely known and respected natural support product. More and more people are looking for products that, alongside CBD, contain other beneficial compounds that enhance the effectiveness of CBD Oil.

One of the most exciting and promising cannabinoids among these is CBG, or cannabigerol.

In this article, we will cover in detail:

what CBG is,
how it relates to the mechanism of action of CBD Oil,
what scientific research supports it,
and why it is considered a highly valuable ingredient in quality CBD Oils.

What is CBG (cannabigerol)?

CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that naturally occurs in the cannabis plant. What makes it truly special is that:

CBG is the "parent" cannabinoid.

In the early stages of cannabis development, most cannabinoids exist in the plant in the form of CBGA (cannabigerolic acid). This compound later transforms through enzymatic processes into:

CBD (CBGA → CBDA → CBD)
and THC (CBGA → THCA → THC)

This is why CBG is often called the “primordial cannabinoid”, without which CBD wouldn’t exist.

Why is CBD Oil containing CBG more expensive?

Most cannabis strains are specifically bred for high CBD content, so the majority of CBGA converts into CBD or other cannabinoids during growth.
As a result, at harvest time, the plant contains only 0.1–1% CBG, meaning much more biomass is needed to extract a unit quantity of CBG.

Extracting CBG is technologically more challenging and costly, which is why high-CBG-content CBD Oil is rarer and more valuable.

This is why quality, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD Oils are considered truly premium products.

Of course, a product's quality isn't just about being expensive. The therapeutic benefits of CBG are well documented, and we cover these below.

How does CBG affect our body?

Like CBD, CBG works through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays a key role in regulating, among other things:

pain perception,
inflammatory processes,
mood and stress management,
the immune response.

Research suggests that CBG:

binds more directly to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system than CBD,
exerts a modulatory effect on other cannabinoids,
and can enhance the effectiveness of CBD Oil.

Scientifically studied effects of CBG

Over the past years, an increasing number of preclinical and laboratory studies have focused on CBG. Based on the results so far, CBG:

May have anti-inflammatory effects

Animal studies suggest that CBG may reduce inflammatory markers, especially in the gastrointestinal system.

Neuroprotective properties

Research indicates that CBG may support the protection of nerve cells, particularly in conditions where the nervous system is under increased stress.

Antibacterial activity

Laboratory tests have shown that CBG is effective against certain antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

Mood and stress

CBG may have a mild “tonic” effect, which is why many users report a more balanced daytime feeling when using CBD Oil that also contains CBG.

Summary – the role of CBG in quality CBD Oils

CBG is gaining increasing attention for good reason. Although present in relatively small amounts, it plays a key role in the effectiveness of CBD Oil.
Based on scientific research, CBG:

supports the action of CBD,
contributes to anti-inflammatory and balancing effects,
increases the therapeutic value of full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD Oils.

If you’re truly looking for quality CBD Oil, it is always worth choosing a product that also contains CBG.

What does one of the most recognized CBG experts say?

A conversation with Dr. Bonni Goldstein about CBG.

Bonni Goldstein is a renowned physician and researcher specializing in cannabinoid medicine. Her expertise lies in the therapeutic application of medical cannabis and the study of cannabinoids' therapeutic effects.

Bonni Goldstein worked for many years as an emergency pediatrician before specializing in medical cannabis. Her research and clinical experience with medical cannabis therapy have earned her significant recognition and reputation.

She is a leading expert in cannabinoid medicine, having helped thousands of patients find appropriate therapeutic solutions involving cannabis. She creates personalized treatment plans, applies dosing protocols, and integrates cannabis therapy alongside conventional medicine.

Dr. Goldstein frequently gives lectures and trainings to share her knowledge and experience in cannabis medicine. She participates in numerous conferences and events worldwide, educating professional audiences. Her work has a major impact on the field of cannabis medicine and contributes to wider acceptance and understanding of medical cannabis as a therapeutic option. Over the years, her achievements and dedication have made her a leading authority in the field.

Ben Amirault, CannMed: I wanted to talk about one of the so-called "minor" compounds that will be presented this month at the CannMed Expo. You said that cannabigerol or CBG is one of your favorite cannabinoids. Why?

Dr. Goldstein: It seems that CBG’s effects are similar in many ways to THC and CBD – but maybe even a bit more effective. It acts as a kind of bridge between THC and CBD. CBG is not intoxicating and isn’t harmful to health. It appears to be effective at lower doses compared to CBD and seems to address some of the main issues people turn to cannabis for— inflammation, pain, anxiety, sleep problems, depression, and cancer. It’s ideal for those who do not want the intoxicating effects of cannabis and don’t want to pay for high-CBD products.

CannMed: Interesting that you say CBG is a bridge between THC and CBD. Is that because CBG is the precursor to other plant cannabinoids?

Dr. Goldstein: The precursor to CBG, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), is known as the mother of all cannabinoids because it is the compound found in immature cannabis flowers. Based on the plant’s genetics and the enzymes it produces, CBGA converts into CBDA and/or THCA, which, when heated, become CBD and THC respectively. CBGA hasn’t been studied much yet, but I suspect we’ll eventually find that it has very interesting anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. We don’t know for sure yet, but at least CBG itself is being researched. I constantly review new scientific literature, and just this year a study from Israel was published about how CBG might help in multiple sclerosis. Another study looked at CBG’s mechanism of action regarding pain and inflammation. So, there’s growing interest in CBG, which is very exciting.

CannMed: For what health issues might CBG be effective?

Dr. Goldstein: I think CBG can offer a lot to people struggling with inflammation, pain, and mood disorders like anxiety or depression. Ethan Russo, along with other researchers, recently conducted a survey among CBG users. About 70% felt that CBG worked better than conventional medications. They highly rated it for anxiety, pain, depression, and sleep issues. I’m not sure if CBG acts as a direct sedative, but if anxiety and pain are reduced, then it’s likely easier to fall asleep and possibly sleep better. It’s notable that much of this anecdotal evidence is supported by preclinical research.

“CBG can offer a lot to people struggling with inflammation, pain, and mood disorders like anxiety or depression.”

CannMed: In the survey you mentioned, was CBG taken alone or combined with other cannabinoids?

Dr. Goldstein: I believe the survey used CBG derived from hemp. There are high-CBG cannabis flower strains, and I’ve seen oral oil forms that have antibacterial and psoriasis treatments as well. Psoriasis is a well-known condition where the disease causes not just joint pain but also thick red patches and scales on the skin, which can be very uncomfortable. It turns out that CBG has properties that address psoriasis. It acts on the skin cells themselves and inhibits the buildup of scaly patches. I think this just shows again how broad the applications of cannabinoids really are. People often ask: How can these compounds be effective for so many things? Well, they have multiple “targets” in the brain and body, which makes them so remarkable.

CannMed: How does CBG differ in its targets compared to other plant cannabinoids? Does it work on the same receptors with similar mechanisms?

Dr. Goldstein: There is overlap with some actions of THC and CBD, but there are also opposing effects. CBD and CBG have opposite effects on a specific serotonin receptor—the 5HT1A. CBD binds to it, while CBG blocks it. Both affect this receptor but in different ways. CBG overlaps with CBD by binding to so-called PPAR receptors [on the cell nucleus]. Both plant cannabinoids also interact with TRP [ion] channels to help with inflammation and pain.

CBG is the only cannabinoid shown to act on the alpha-adrenergic receptor, which mediates pain sensation and inflammation. There are medications for ADHD and other behavioral issues that target this receptor. CBG is always a compound I consider when treating children with behavioral difficulties. I have used it with some autistic patients. Some families report their children are calmer, more focused, and even some non-verbal autistic children experience speech improvement. Other parents say CBG makes their children overly hyperactive. That’s likely a dosing issue. Why not give it a try? We know it’s safe. We start with very low doses to monitor what happens, and of course, parents and I supervise the process. So far, about 60% of children who try CBG benefit from it.

CannMed: I’m glad you brought up ADHD. My son was diagnosed with ADHD. I’m surprised to hear CBG might be useful.

Dr. Goldstein: We don’t have clinical trials saying definitively that CBG is beneficial or harmful for children. In my California practice, the regulations allow me to work with parents to try different cannabinoids to see what helps. We do this very methodically—starting low and titrating up. We focus on one compound at a time to assess benefits. Sometimes we use CBD alongside CBG, but when benefits increase, it’s hard to say if it’s the added compound or the combination working. There’s a lot of trial and error, and it takes time to find the right solution. I always tell families at the start that we’re going to work together for a while. It rarely works perfectly on the first try. Sometimes we get lucky, but that’s not the usual case.

CannMed: Another thing I noticed is the idea that CBG enhances the body’s function. Could you elaborate?

Dr. Goldstein: Several endocannabinoids, including CBD and CBG, delay the breakdown of our body's own endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are cannabis-like compounds produced internally, released on demand in response to a trigger, usually something stressful like illness, trauma, or infection. Your body produces these endocannabinoids to help maintain balance among the many messages cells continually send and receive. The endocannabinoid system is a physiological regulator that helps keep you balanced. We can enhance our natural endocannabinoid system with plant cannabinoids that delay the breakdown of endogenous cannabinoids, making them last longer. It’s similar to how some antidepressants work by prolonging serotonin’s breakdown time.

“We can enhance our natural endocannabinoid system with plant cannabinoids”

CannMed: Is it true that exercise is another way to stimulate the body to produce endocannabinoids?

Dr. Goldstein: Yes.

CannMed: Is using CBD or CBG an effective way to maintain anandamide* in the system and better utilize our natural cannabinoids?
*anandamide: one of the main cannabinoids produced by our body

Dr. Goldstein: Theoretically yes, though I’m not sure there’s direct evidence linking them. What’s clear is that the literature supports cannabinoids’ anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, and that a single dose isn’t going to produce the expected effect. It’s useful to think of this as part of a wellness regimen that includes cannabinoids along with other healthy habits to support our endocannabinoid system—healthy nutrition, exercise, good sleep, and stress control.

“We can enhance our natural endocannabinoid system with plant cannabinoids.”

CannMed: Could you talk about how CBG may enhance other cannabinoids’ effects, or about situations where cannabinoid combinations are useful?

Dr. Goldstein: There’s a 2019 animal study showing that the combination of CBD and CBG reduced neuroinflammation. They specifically studied neurodegenerative disorders involving dementia, such as Lou Gehrig’s disease or ALS. This preclinical study showed that CBD and CBG together worked well and produced better results in protecting against nerve inflammation. This relates to the concept of synergy or entourage effect, where combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes seem to enhance positive effects. Another recent study showed that CBG has anti-cancer effects beyond those of THC and/or CBD in certain brain tumor cells. When some of my cancer patients with advanced cancer and poor prognosis come to me—and I’ve been doing this for years—I add CBG to the mixture.

CannMed: In what other situations have you found CBG might help when a cannabis-based treatment has already started but isn't producing results?

Dr. Goldstein: I think if I’m treating anxiety, pain, or inflammation and am not seeing good results with THC and/or CBD—which are of course the two most commonly used cannabinoids right now—then adding CBG is definitely worth a try. It’s important to recognize that combining cannabinoids might mean lower doses of each can still be effective while achieving enhanced effects. Studies support this, showing that subtherapeutic doses—doses too low to produce clinical effects alone—work better in combination. For many people, high-dose products simply aren’t affordable. Sometimes a small amount of two compounds combined is really effective. Regarding CBG—for anxiety, pain, psoriasis—I use it in autistic patients, cancer patients, because it’s safe. If someone is struggling and conventional medicine doesn’t help or only helps to a point, I see no reason, especially under medical supervision, not to try CBG and other cannabinoids when compelling preclinical studies exist and clinical trials are awaited.

“CBG is always a compound I consider when treating children with behavioral or other difficulties.”

CannMed: It seems patients tolerate CBG very well, but are there side effects?

Dr. Goldstein: I haven’t noticed many unwanted reactions with the children I treat. In some autistic kids, CBG can be overly stimulating, so I warn families about this before we start. It’s very likely a dosing issue. Dosage is really, really important! In some kids, lower doses may overstimulate. If that happens, we try higher doses. I haven’t observed or heard of many side effects in adults taking CBG. Some adults report that CBG is somewhat energizing, so I wouldn’t recommend taking CBG right before bedtime until you know how it affects you. On the other hand, some say it helps with sleep because it calms you and reduces anxiety. When doctors prescribe antidepressants or opioids, no one really knows how you’ll respond if you haven’t used them before. The same goes for CBG.

CannMed: CBG is still among the lesser-known cannabinoids. How easy is it to access CBG products?

Dr. Goldstein: In the video I posted on YouTube, I showcase some CBG products. It’s also available as flower if you want to vape it. Most commonly, it's available as a tincture, meaning it's an extract in a bottle with a dropper that you can administer sublingually. I don’t promote any particular company, but a quick Google search definitely helps. And of course, before purchasing anything, make sure the product has a cannabinoid certificate of analysis showing its ingredients. If such a certificate isn’t available, move on to the next product!

CannMed: Previously, we did a podcast with a lab expert who said some manufacturers even falsify their certificates...... So, Bonni, before we let you go, I want to thank you for talking to us about CBG. I look forward to hearing your presentation on cannabinoids at CannMed 2023, where you will lead the medical team alongside Dustin Sulak, Kevin Spelman, and Eloise Thiessen. Could you give us a quick preview of what people can expect and why you consider events like this important for educating clinicians and laypeople about cannabis medicine?

Dr. Goldstein: This is important because there isn’t a comprehensive, formal training program for healthcare professionals focused on cannabis therapy, no residency or internship position specializing in it. The feedback we receive is very useful when we hear directly from clinicians who actually practice this kind of medicine and research cannabis medicine. The lecture series is, after all, a full-day education. We start with the physiology of the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid and other plant component physiology. Dr. Kevin Spelman, a brilliant botanist and herbalist with years of experience, is one of the speakers. His lectures are amazing, especially from my medical background. Coming from an allopathic background, understanding botanical medicine has been a big shift for me. Having him on board really helps bridge the gap for those coming from the allopathic field. I will talk about pediatrics, my specialty. There will be practical panels showing case studies and offering advice on how to help patients choose the right medicine. It’s truly a full day packed with information for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge. I really enjoy it. It’s great to be among like-minded people and to hear about others’ experiences. I always learn something new from my CannMed colleagues, the audience, and other speakers.

It’s important to mention that CBD/CBG oil is not a miracle cure! The foundations of preserving our health are regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a stress-free lifestyle. None of these can be replaced by CBD! CBD is considered a "novel food" in Hungary and most EU countries since its widespread use before 1997 has not been established. Therefore, no promises can be made regarding prevention or cure of diseases with products containing CBD.

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