THC and CBD get all the attention, but there’s a lesser-known cannabinoid worth knowing about: CBG, or cannabigerol. It shows up in cannabis in small amounts, and early research suggests it may help with pain, inflammation, and anxiety. Here’s what CBG is, how it works, and what the science says so far.
What is CBG?
CBG is one of the 100-plus cannabinoids the cannabis plant produces. These compounds are what give cannabis its effects on body and mind, and they’re grouped by chemical structure and behavior. CBG is called a “minor” cannabinoid because most strains contain it in fairly low concentrations, which is part of why it’s stayed under the radar.
How does CBG work?
Like other cannabinoids, CBG works through your endocannabinoid system (ECS), the network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulates things like pain, appetite, and mood. CBG binds to both the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, altering how they behave, and that’s where its potential therapeutic effects come from.
What are the potential benefits?
Research is ongoing, but the early findings are promising. A few of the areas getting attention:
Anti-inflammatory effects
CBG has shown anti-inflammatory activity, which points to possible uses for conditions like arthritis and Crohn’s disease. In one study, CBG reduced inflammation in mice with colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease.
Pain relief
CBG has demonstrated pain-relieving effects, which could make it an alternative to conventional pain medications. One study found it reduced neuropathic pain in rats, a chronic pain caused by nerve damage.
Anxiety relief
In animal studies, CBG has reduced anxiety, suggesting potential for treating anxiety disorders. One study found it eased anxiety in mice without any sedative effect, which is notable since sedation is a common tradeoff.
Antidepressant effects
CBG has also shown antidepressant-like effects in animal research. In one study, it increased the brain neurotransmitters tied to feelings of well-being and happiness.
What does the research say?
CBG research is still early, and most of it has been done in animal models rather than humans, so read the results with appropriate caution. That said, the direction is encouraging. Researchers are looking into CBG for a range of human conditions, including anxiety, depression, glaucoma, and Huntington’s disease. It’s also been reported to increase appetite, which could make it useful for weight-gain treatment, and to help with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
The bottom line
CBG is a minor cannabinoid drawing more interest for its potential anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anxiety-reducing, and antidepressant effects. The research is in its early stages, and there’s plenty left to learn, but the findings so far make it one to watch. If you’d like to try it, we carry it.