CBD vs. CBG
The CBD market is booming with customers realizing the natural benefits of CBD. However, it seems that another element of the cannabis plant is making its debut, and it just may have the same, if not more, benefits than CBD. CBG, a cannabinoid, is new to the game, but the very early studies are showing that it can not only treat ailments, but may be able to aid CBD with its beneficial properties.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, the non-intoxicating substance in cannabis. It is found in high levels of cannabis and hemp. When removed, it can provide a safe treatment for many maladies.
What is CBG?
CBG is short for cannabigerol, one of the over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis. The acid, Cannabigerol acid, CGBA results after the cannabis plant matures. The cannabis enzymes convert the acid into the three major results: tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). The chemicals lose their “a” through a heating process known as decarboxylation.
During decarboxylation, most of CGBA is synthesized into the major chemicals like THC and CBD. But, scientists are now finding that isolated CGB, and studying it on its own, may show some positive benefits to using it like CBD.
What are the Differences Between CBD and CBG?
While they are both derived from the same plant, there are numerous differences between CBD and CBG.
Pharmacology
Each of these chemicals affects and activates different receptors in a person's body. Because of this, it can treat different ailments with different results.
For instance, CBD directly connects to the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor as an agonist, whereas CGB is an antagonist. In his case, they essentially cancel each other out at the same location.
Molecular Structure
CBG and CBD have different molecular structures, including different amounts of hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon atoms. Because of their structure, they bind with receptors in different ways (see above), and therefore help in different ways.
Appetite
While more research is needed, at this point it seems as though CBG boosts your appetite, and CBD does not.
Is One Better than the Other?
It is hard to say whether one is better than the other, as there is actually very little known about CBG and its effects on the body. While CBD has studied and used more, news on CBG is just starting to be understood. At this point, both have benefits that could help if you needed treatment for certain conditions.
Can CBG and CBD be Taken Together?
The short answer: yes. While it is known that taking one cannabinoid is a positive experience, more than one creates a different effect, known as the “Entourage Effect.” With the Entourage Effect, using more than one cannabinoid is better, since they work better together than alone.
If you take CBD and CBG together, they balance each other. CBD gives you energy, whereas CBG relaxes you. Rather than sharpen a feeling, taking them together gives you a more even experience.
CBD vs. CBG for Pain: Which is Better?
Many people take CBD to eliminate pain. In fact, nearly 40% of CBD users found that it helped with minor pain as a result of regular exercise. CBD can help with pain, both by oral ingestion or topical creams.
Not as much is known about CBG, but so far, it has been shown to help with slight pain and soreness, especially with inflammation of the skin. However, a 2017 study on CBG found that it might actually be more helpful for pain relief and anti-inflammation.
CBD vs. CBG for Sleep: Which is Better?
CBD is known for its calming properties, including for anxiety. Taking CBD before bed can rest your body to help you to obtain a peaceful sleep. Additionally, there are CBD sleep aids that combine CBD with sleep-inducing elements, such as melatonin that assist in sleep.
In terms of CBG, studies still need to be conducted to find out the effects CBG has on sleep. However, a combination of CBD and CBG may provide the “Entourage Effect” to help your body balance out in preparation for rest.
CBG vs CBD For Stress: Which Is Better?
Stress is the top-rated reason that people take CBD. It is known to have calming and relaxing properties, and assist with anxiety and nervousness.
There is not enough research to show any benefits of using CBG for stress, but both of the compounds affect stress-related brain chemistry. It is entirely possible that both CBD and CBG assist with stress, though there are no studies to prove it.
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