Is CBG Psychoactive?
No, CBG is not psychoactive and will not get you high.
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the many cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant. CBG is often referred to as a “poor man’s THC” because it doesn’t have the psychoactive properties THC does.
CBG is considered a “Strict Cannabinoid” because it won’t produce significant psychoactive effects.
CBG is antagonistic with the CB1 receptor, so it doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects on humans. CBG is desirable for patients who wish to avoid THC’s euphoria and high.
However, this cannabinoid does have an array of therapeutic effects and traces its use back to ancient times.
What are Cannabinoids, and What Effect Do They Have on You?
Cannabis contains over 400 compounds, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Cannabinoids are the biologically active components that interact with our Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Cannabinoids are a group of chemical compounds found in Cannabis and hemp. They interact with cannabinoid receptors in cells to produce different effects. The most researched Cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
Cannabinoids are converted into other forms by heating them or adding solvents. This process is called decarboxylation (decarb); The removing of a Carbon atom through heat).
Click here to find out more about “Methods of Decarbing Kief.”
What is Cannabigerol (CBG)?
Cannabigerol, also known as CBG, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and one of the most abundant compounds found in hemp.
CBG is the mother of cannabinoids because it is the parent molecule from which THCA and CBDA are synthesized.
In other words, it’s a building block for most other cannabinoids.
The high concentration of CBG found in hemp oil makes hemp a unique source for health benefits, including pain relief, stress relief, and nausea treatment. In addition to being a precursor to THC and CBD, CBG has been shown to have its own anti-inflammatory properties.
CBG was first isolated in 1964 by Israeli scientists Raphael Mechoulam, Yechiel Gaoni, and Yuval Shvo from the Weizmann Institute in Rehovot and was thought to be non-psychoactive like cannabidiol (CBD).
The primary therapeutic use of CBG is as an analgesic agent.
CBG converts to other cannabinoids
CBG synthesizes into THCA and CBDA. These Cannabinoids are then Decarboxylated to form THC and CBD.
CBG and Humulene (a-Caryophyllene)
CBG (Cannabinoid) and Humulene (Terpene) are cannabis-derived molecules with anti-inflammatory effects.
Caryophyllene (Humulene) is a cannabinoid receptor agonist and a stimulator of the body’s natural pain-relieving endocannabinoids.
Humulene is the first discovered in the essential oils of Humulus lupulus (hops), and the name Humulene is derived from this.
Its aroma is spicy and earthy with woody notes.
This combination of Cannabinoid and Terpene is promising for patients with inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, and colitis.
How Is CBG Extracted?
CBG can be extracted from the Cannabis plant using solvents such as butane or ethanol and purified using column chromatography. CBG can also be generated synthetically.
How Does CBG Differ from the THC and CBD?
CBG vs. CBD
CBG is the precursor to CBD, which means it can be converted into CBD by enzymes in the plant.
CBG does not have psychoactive properties, and it can’t substitute for THC or CBD as an intoxicant.
CBG vs. THC: Can CBG Get You High?
CBG has lower potency than THC, which means its psychoactive effects are not as strong. But this non-psychoactive feature can be very beneficial because you don’t need to worry about feeling high after using it to relieve pain or anxiety.
CBG can act as an antagonist of CB1 receptors, which are the receptors responsible for the feeling of getting high. This antagonistic relationship means that cannabigerol can effectively treat pain without getting you high.
How does CBG affect the Endocannabinoid System?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of two primary receptors: cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid type 2 (CB2). These have many functions, including cognition, pain-sensation, mood-control, appetite regulation, memory inhibition, immune response modulation, and protection against certain types of cancerous cells.
Research has also found that CBG is an anti-depressant on its own. The endocannabinoid system regulates the body’s response to stress, anxiety, and depression; therefore, Cannabis that contains CBG is an excellent treatment for those experiencing these conditions.
CBG promotes bone growth both in vivo and in vitro.
CBG’s role in the endocannabinoid system is to interact with TRPV1 channels and inhibit high-voltage-activated calcium channels. This prevents excessive excitation of neurons and reduces neuronal sensitization. CBG also inhibits anandamide reuptake, leading to an increase in extracellular concentrations of anandamide.
CBG does not bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors like THC, CBD, and many other cannabinoids. Instead, it binds to the receptor TRPV 1, a vanilloid receptor. This receptor is related to pain sensation and inflammation, so when CBG binds, it has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
CB2 receptor activation induces anti-inflammatory responses in the body, such as decreased swelling and pain. CBG will be most beneficial when used for conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia where inflammation is present.
Potential Medical Uses of CBG
CBG effectively treats inflammatory pain. This effect is due to its ability to bind with the CB2 receptor, often associated with easing inflammation. CBG may also be effective at fighting cancer-causing cells.
The potential medical uses of CBG are vast and include:
Inflammation
Pain
Epilepsy
Schizophrenia
Cancer
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia
CBG’s potential is so significant that patents have been sought and granted for cancer treatments.
Click here for “11 Astonishing CBG Health Benefits.”
Is CBG Safe?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the most prevalent cannabinoids found in Cannabis. The side effects for long-term use of CBG are not known. There are not enough clinical trials to determine the safety or risks for long-term use. Some individuals may be sensitive to CBG.
Does Cannabigerol (CBG) Interact with Any Other Medications?
Cannabis can react with other medications, and it is essential to consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
A study published in 2010 found that CBG interacts with at least one drug, Prozac. When subjects were given doses of Prozac and then administered the CBG, their mood improved significantly more than when they had either substance by itself. However, there was no significant change in serotonin or dopamine levels between the two groups.
In one study, researchers found that when combined with clobazam (an anti-epileptic drug), CBG increased the levels of clobazam in the bloodstream. This combination could be dangerous for people on clobazam because it can cause seizures if taken at high doses.
The same study also found that when combined with valproate (an anti-epileptic drug), CBG increased the side effects of valproate, such as dizziness and sedation.
Click here to find out more on; “Weed and Antibiotics.”
Click here to find out more on;” Melatonin and Weed.”
Are there any other side effects of CBG?
The side effects of CBG can vary from person to person and are dependant on your consumption method.
- Allergies: CBG can be an allergen for people allergic to Cannabis or any of its compounds.
- Drowsiness: Some people feel drowsy when they use CBG, affecting their performance at work or school.
- Nausea: Patients with stomach conditions like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also experience these symptoms after using CBG.
How to Use CBG
Some of the most popular methods to use CBG are;
- Oral consumption
- Topical application
- Sublingual administration
- Suppositories
- Smoking and Vaping
Is CBG Legal?
The legality of Cannabigerol (CBG) is dependent on the country. Some countries have strict regulations on the sale and use of Cannabis, Cannabis-derived products, and Cannabigerol (CBG).
The United States has strict federal laws against Cannabis and Cannabigerol (CBG) that make them illegal to use in most cases. The federal government allows some states to establish their regulations for the use of this particular drug. This makes it legal in these areas but not in others.
Cannabigerol (CBG) is not classified as a controlled drug or narcotic in many European countries.
5 Top CBG Strains
White CBG Strain
- A unique industrial hemp strain bred for high CBG content.
- Get the whole spectrum of Cannabigerol (CBG) benefits without extracting it.
- Easy way to get CBG content without the complicated extractions.
- High CBG content with about 36% of the cannabinoid coming from CBG.
- Makes for excellent anxiety relief, with no psychoactive effects.
Lemon Diesel CBG Strain
- A Sativa-dominant cannabis strain that will make you feel like you can take on the world.
- It is as high as 16% CBG content, making it one of the most potent CBD strains.
- The uplifting and focus-enhancing effects make this strain perfect for creative minds and workaholics alike.
White Whale CBG Strain
- The White Whale CBG will take you on a relaxing journey to new heights with a calm and euphoric high.
- From head to toe, this CBG dominant strain will soothe your body with its potent effects.
- You can detect hints of grapefruit and pine in this frosty bud covered with trichomes.
Jack Frost CBG Strain
- Jack Frost is the first high-CBD strain that hemp growers have bred.
- It’s perfect for medical patients who can’t use THC (a high level of CBD).
- It has a fresh pine and lemony smell.
Crawford CBG Strain
- One of the finest CBG strains currently available on the market with over 22% of CBG content.
- Crawford’s smell is fruity and citrusy reminiscent of grapefruit aroma. Its buds are coated in white sticky trichomes.
- Complex fruity and citrusy smell that is reminiscent of grapefruit.
What is a Landrace Strain?
A landrace strain is a form of Cannabis that has been grown in one area for many years and has developed its unique genetic make-up.
Landrace strains are usually indigenous to a particular region because they depend on their climate to thrive. These strains have remained “pure” and have not been hybridized with other strains.
Researcher Richard Evans Schultes used the term “landrace” in the 1970s to describe varieties free from human-induced changes and selective breeding.
Having not been crossbred with other plants, Landrace Cannabis Strains are considered purebred. Landrace strains still exist today, including Afghani, Colombian Red, and Thai Stick.
Where Can You Buy CBG Oil?
There are many places where you can purchase CBG oil. However, not all of them are reputable, so it is essential to know what you are looking for before purchasing.
Not all oils come from the same plant, which means they will have different potency and produce distinct effects.
It is also important to know whether or not the oil comes from a hemp plant or a marijuana plant. Hemp-based oils will not have as much THC as marijuana-based oils, but they will still benefit and relieve specific ailments.
Take a look at these brands as part of your search into quality CBG products;
Full Spectrum CBG Oil by NuLeaf Naturals
Buy CBG Capsules, Pills & Softgels – Procana
Scientific Papers: Does CBG get you high? – 11 Astonishing Health Benefits of CBG
Manipulation of the endocannabinoid system in colitis: A comprehensive review
Cannabigerol Is a Potential Therapeutic Agent in a Novel Combined Therapy for Glioblastoma
The Pharmacological Case for Cannabigerol
The antitumor activity of plant-derived non-psychoactive cannabinoids
https://www.cell.com/iscience/pdf/S2589-0042(20)30488-0.pdf
Cannabinoid Ligands Targeting TRP Channels
Anti-depressant and Anxiolytic Effects of Medicinal Cannabis Use in an Observational Trial
