If you're interested in learning more about the cannabis plant and how it affects the human body, one of the first things you're going to learn about is cannabinoids. These are unique chemical compounds that can have a wide array of effects, from pain relief to feelings of inner calm to straight-up euphoria. It really is a multifaceted plant.

That said, we're here to learn about one cannabinoid in particular — CBG. While it's not as popular as its cousins THC and CBD, there's a growing body of work that's showing CBG has numerous health benefits, particularly for folks who aren't necessarily interested in the intoxicating elements of cannabis. Before we get to that though, let's first get a better understanding of cannabinoids as a whole and how they interact with the body.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Phytocannabinoids are the natural compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to influence a variety of physiological processes — more on that in just a bit. There are over a hundred known cannabinoids, each with its own unique properties and potential effects. The most well-known are THC, which is well-known for its psychoactive effects, and CBD, which a lot of people use for its therapeutic benefits without the high.

However, cannabinoids are not just limited to those two heavy hitters. Compounds like CBN and CBC are also making waves in the wellness community, but before we talk about health, let's first talk about how these compounds interact with your physiology.

What Is the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system — called the ECS for short — is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that all play a role in maintaining homeostasis in your body. Discovered in the early 1990s, the ECS consists of two main types of receptors — CB1 receptors, which are mostly found in the brain and nervous system, and CB2 receptors, which are found in the immune system and your body's peripheral tissues.

When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they can influence various physiological functions, including your mood, your body's perception of pain, your appetite, and your immune response. The ECS is also responsible for regulating stress and anxiety levels, making it a really important part of managing our overall wellbeing.

Alright, so now that we understand what cannabinoids are and how your body works with them, let's drill down and talk about CBG specifically.

What Is CBG?

Cannabigerol — CBG for short — is a lesser-known but increasingly recognized cannabinoid that has gained a lot of attention recently for its potential health benefits. Some people call it the "mother of all cannabinoids "since it's the chemical precursor that other cannabinoids like THC and CBD are synthesized from. While it was first discovered in the 1960s, interest in CBG has surged in recent years as more and more people are looking for alternatives to pharmaceuticals and other traditional wellness products.

As studies to explore CBG's interactions with the body's endocannabinoid system are starting up in earnest, we're just beginning to uncover the exciting possibilities this cannabinoid holds for enhancing people's health and wellbeing.

How Is CBG Used?

The good news is that CBG can be utilized in various forms, making it a great option for a lot of different peoples' preferences and lifestyles. Here are some of the most common ways folks use CBG.

Oils and Tinctures

CBG oils are among the most popular forms available. These are typically made by extracting CBG from hemp plants and diluting it with a carrier oil, such as MCT. Most people use tinctures under their tongues for faster absorption or add them to food and beverages for a more gradual effect.

Capsules and Softgels

For those who prefer a pre-measured dose, CBG capsules are a really convenient option. They provide a discreet way to incorporate CBG into your daily routine, making it easy to maintain consistent dosing.

Edibles

CBG-infused gummies, chocolates, and other edibles are a tasty way to enjoy the benefits of this cannabinoid. Like other forms of edibles, they will take a little longer to kick in compared to oils or tinctures but can provide a more prolonged effect.

Topicals

CBG is also available in topical forms, such as creams and balms. These products are designed for localized relief and can be applied directly to the skin. Many users turn to CBG topicals for skin conditions or muscle and joint discomfort.

Vaping

If you prefer inhalation methods, CBG can be found in vape oils. This method allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief. That said, you need to be careful with these. It's important to choose high-quality products to avoid harmful additives.

Regardless of the method of consumption, it's crucial to start with a low dose and gradually adjust as needed — especially if you're new to cannabis. As individual responses to CBG can vary, monitoring your experience will help you find the optimal dosage and delivery method for your needs. Remember, you should always choose products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure quality and potency.

So, now that you understand how to consume CBG, let's take a look at what it can do for you.

What Are the Effects of CBG?

As interest in CBG continues to grow, so does the research into its effects. While studies are still in their infant stages, the early findings suggest that CBG may have a range of therapeutic benefits.

Pain Management

One of the biggest standout effects of CBG is its potential for pain relief. Research is showing that CBG may interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to help modulate pain perception. Some studies suggest that CBG can inhibit certain pain pathways, which can be really helpful for people dealing with chronic pain conditions. Folks suffering from arthritis or nerve pain may find relief through CBG's analgesic properties, making it an appealing alternative to dangerous pain medications that can be addictive or have other negative side effects.

Anxiety Relief

Physical pain aside, CBG may also play a role in alleviating mental pain. Though it doesn't have the psychoactive effects associated with THC, CBG may promote feelings of calm and relaxation. Anecdotal reports show that taking CBG can lead to a more balanced emotional state, making it a viable option for people looking to manage their anxiety. But remember, it's important to talk with a doctor before you try to use cannabis to manage your symptoms, especially if you have underlying health issues or if you're on any medication.

Appetite Stimulation

Research is showing that CBG might also stimulate people's appetite, which can be particularly useful for individuals dealing with conditions that cause appetite loss, such as cancer or certain gastrointestinal disorders. By enhancing people's desire to eat, CBG may assist in maintaining a healthy weight or improving nutritional intake in those struggling with appetite-related issues.

Mood Enhancement

CBG could also contribute to overall mood enhancement. Some studies have shown that CBG can influence neurotransmitter activity, which could potentially lead to an improved sense of wellbeing. People reported feeling more balanced and uplifted after using CBG, which may make it a valuable addition to a holistic approach to mental health.

Inflammation Relief

Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many health issues, and CBG is looking promising as an anti-inflammatory agent. Preliminary studies indicate that CBG may help reduce inflammation by interacting with the body's immune response and inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This could be particularly beneficial for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or arthritis, where inflammation plays a significant role.

Antibacterial Qualities

Another interesting and unique aspect of CBG is its antibacterial properties. Early research has suggested that CBG may exhibit activity against certain strains of bacteria, including those that are resistant to conventional antibiotics. This could make CBG a valuable ally in the fight against infections and skin conditions. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these antibacterial effects, CBG is a pretty interesting avenue for future studies.

These are all really interesting benefits that require a lot more study to understand fully, but let's shift gears now and answer one of the biggest questions people have about CBG. Will it get you high?

Does CBG Have Psychoactive Qualities?

When exploring the world of cannabinoids, one of the most common questions that comes up is whether or not a particular compound has psychoactive effects. In the case of CBG, the answer is a resounding no — CBG is non-psychoactive. It's not going to make you feel high.

To clarify, psychoactive substances are those that affect the mind, altering perception, mood, consciousness, or behavior. THC, the most well-known cannabinoid, is sought out by many for its psychoactive properties, leading to the characteristic "high" associated with cannabis use. This effect occurs because THC binds directly to the CB1 receptors in the brain, influencing neurotransmitter activity and altering mental states.

CBG on the other hand, does not produce a high or any intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system differently. CBG has a lower affinity for CB1 receptors, meaning it does not bind to them in a way that would trigger psychoactive responses. Instead, it may interact more with CB2 receptors, which are primarily involved in immune system regulation and inflammation. Although it can impact your mood and lower your anxiety levels, you're not going to feel intoxicated from taking it.

This is what makes CBG an appealing option for people who want to experience the potential health benefits of cannabinoids without the mind-altering effects. Its quality allows you to incorporate CBG into your daily routines without having to worry about stumbling through an awkward Zoom call with your boss.

With that in mind, let's talk about some of the risks users take when consuming CBG. Don't worry — they're really minimal.

Are There Any Risks Associated with CBG Use?

As with any supplement or therapeutic substance, it's important to understand the potential risks associated with it. While CBG is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated, understanding the possible side effects and interactions can help you make good decisions about whether or not it's right for you.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding CBG is the relatively limited research available compared to more established cannabinoids like THC and CBD — we're just not sure about its effects from a clinical standpoint. While preliminary studies suggest promising benefits, the long-term safety profile of CBG is not fully understood.

What's understood anecdotally is that CBG use can lead to a few mild side effects. These include things like dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite. Most of the time, these effects aren't enough to make users stop using CBG, but everybody is different. You should be mindful of how your body reacts to cannabis products, especially when using CBG for the first time. Factors like your genetics, existing health conditions, and overall body chemistry can influence how you're going to experience CBG.

And finally, you're going to want to be careful if you're taking any other medications. Like a lot of other cannabinoids, CBG has the potential to interact with certain medicines, particularly if that medicine is metabolized by the liver. If you take CBG with other medications, it can lead to decreased effectiveness, so you need to be careful. We said it before, but we'll say it again — you need to talk to a healthcare provider before you start incorporating any cannabis products into your day-to-day routine.

Final Thoughts on CBG and its Use

As interest and research into the fascinating world of cannabinoids continues to grow, CBG is starting to stand out as a promising option for a lot of different uses. While research is still in its early stages, the preliminary findings on CBG's potential are really exciting.

In the end, CBG represents just one piece of the intricate puzzle that is cannabis. With continued exploration and a commitment to safety, this plant is quickly becoming a valuable tool for people seeking balance, relief, and an improvement to their overall wellbeing.