A Complete Guide to CBG Oil- CBD's Unsung Cousin
We’ve all heard of the CBD cannabinoid, and (rightly so) it’s been in the spotlight for a long time due to its potential all-natural benefits. There are over one hundred compounds found in the hemp plant, and not all of them have been blessed with the same publicity as CBD or THC. There is now an increased level of interest in CBG, and it is gradually becoming one of the more well-researched cannabinoids. So, if you would like to discover more about the buzz surrounding the CBG cannabinoid, then you have come to the right place! Consider this article to be your complete guide to cannabigerol, as we aim to answer all of your burning questions.
What is CBG Oil?
So, what is CBG? Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the cannabinoids that resides in cannabis Sativa plants, along with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. CBG has been established as a non-psychoactive compound, which means that it won’t cause any kind of intoxication. This is comforting for many people, as it also means that CBG won’t raise any red flags on a drug test. There should be no issues with consuming it while driving or operating machinery (provided that you live in a country where hemp-derived cannabinoids are legal).
Interestingly, CBG is considered to be the mother precursor of all other cannabinoids. This is due to the way that the acidic form of CBG, otherwise referred to as CBG-A, breaks down during the hemp flowering cycle. It then transforms into CBG, and other cannabinoids, such as CBN, CBD, and THC. Therefore, if we were to take the CBG cannabinoid out of the equation, then we wouldn't have access to the CBD or any of the other cannabis derivatives that are on the market today.
What is the Difference Between CBD and CBG?
The main similarity between these two cannabinoids is the fact that they both are non-psychoactive. The same cannot be said for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the hemp plant's main psychoactive compound. There are also indications that CBD and CBG may both influence signs of inflammation within the body. In addition to this, there is research from 2018 to suggest that these cannabinoids may interact with the same receptors in the human body.
Cannabinoid receptors and enzymes naturally exist within the body regardless of whether you consume cannabinoid products. The potential interactions offered by cannabinoids may differ, as the same research suggests that CBD might interact with CB1 and CB2 brain receptors, while CBG may bind directly to them. Many researchers question whether CBG might play a more straightforward role in activating these receptors and potentially helping to create benefits.
It's also important to note that CBD and CBG's chemical structures are different. Overall, there is a more detailed body of research on CBD, in comparison to CBG. However, as more interest is ignited in the cannabinoid, it is highly likely that more scientific attention will be applied to CBG in the near future.
What are the Possible Side Effects of CBG Oil?
CBG is generally believed to be a low-risk substance. However, there is little research to draw from in terms of any of its potential side effects. Some animal studies indicate that it is well-tolerated, but more direct human trials are needed to confirm this possibility. In terms of interactions with medications, it's best to avoid using CBG if you are taking medicines labelled with a grapefruit warning. This is due to the fact that we don't currently know how CBG might influence the way the human body metabolises some other substances. Of course, this caution is based on CBD research, but due to the similarities between these cannabinoids, it would be sensible to avoid any medication-linked risks until further research has examined this area.
It's vital to speak with your doctor before using cannabinoid-based supplements - especially if you are taking heart rhythm medications, blood pressure medications, blood thinners, or any other prescribed substances.
What are the Potential Benefits of CBG?
So, what are the potential benefits of supplementing CBG oil into your lifestyle? While the research into CBG is continuing to grow, studies have investigated its potential ability to impact some areas of wellness.
CBG May Affect Some Signs of Inflammation
Some research has indicated that CBG may possibly help influence some symptoms of inflammation in the body. In the future, this might just prove relevant in relation to some signs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One rodent study published in 2013 examined the potential effects of CBG on mice with colitis. The researchers suggested that CBG consumption may have possibly impacted signs of excess length and weight in the colon. It might have even affected symptoms of murine colitis in the mice, and natural ROS formation in their intestinal epithelial cells.
If humans are exposed to ROS (reactive oxygen species) for a long period of time, this may possibly increase their risk of developing bacterial infections and issues such as inflammatory bowel diseases and intestinal discomforts. The researchers concluded their study by indicating that CBG may potentially be considered for clinical experimentation for IBD symptoms one day in the future. This is intriguing research, as IBD affects millions of people worldwide, and it can cause a whole host of discomforts, such as recurring diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and unintended weight loss.
Purported Antibacterial Properties
There is some evidence to suggest that CBG may possibly hold antibacterial properties. One study from 2008 examined the botanical potential of cannabinoids from the cannabis Sativa plant family. The authors of this study suggested that hemp has long been known to hold cannabinoids that may potentially impede the growth of some microorganisms. They said that all five of the major cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, THC, CBC, and CBN) might play a role in influencing bacterial cycles. According to this study, CBG may possibly have an impact on one particular strain of bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) - which can cause drug-resistant staph infections. This is an extremely exciting possibility, not just in relation to the CBG cannabinoid, but also the other cannabinoids in the hemp plant.
CBG and Appetite
Appetite loss can occur for a range of reasons, the most common being illness or stress. If this continues for a long period of time, the body does not get the nutrients that it requires to survive. A rat study published in 2016 suggested that CBG might potentially influence our natural appetite. In this trial, the rodents that consumed CBG ate twice as much food as those in the control group. The researchers also suggested that the CBG produced no adverse effects in the rats. CBG’s potential capacity to influence eating patterns may possibly be of interest to some people who struggle with their appetites or experience a decreased desire to eat. Science still has a lot of remaining ground to cover, and therefore no conclusions can be drawn until substantial human trials take place.
In 2015, a study was published that explored the possible neuroprotective effects of the CBG cannabinoid. This particular study examined the potential effects of CBG on rats with Huntington’s disease symptoms. This disease is a progressive brain disorder. Scientists believe that it can be caused by genetic complications. It often triggers a range of challenging symptoms due to the manner in which it changes the central brain area. This can impair mood, thinking, and movement. In the study mentioned above, researchers suggested that CBG may have potentially acted as a neuroprotectant in the mice and improved their motor skills. The authors also expressed hopes that their research would pave the way for more detailed and conclusive studies into the possibilities of CBG and neuroprotection.
Other Areas of Research:
There have been some studies that have focussed on specific symptoms associated with different wellbeing challenges. For example, one in-vitro mouse study published in 2015 examined the possible effects of cannabinoids on bladder contractions. The cannabinoids in question were non-psychotropic - CBDV, CBD, CBC, with a particular focus on CBG. The scientists implied that CBG might show the most potential in influencing some symptomatic contractions. They suggested that other research has highlighted CBG's possible ability to affect some symptoms of bladder contractions in humans - specifically those induced by acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter in the body).
Furthermore, one study published in 2014 examined the effects of CBG on signs of colon cell growth in rats. The authors indicated that the results of their study were fascinating, as CBG may possibly influence CRC cells and the progression of some symptoms of digestive discomfort in rats. The authors also said that CBG should be regarded as a relatively safe, non-psychotropic cannabinoid. This research is worth delving into, and it warrants further scientific investigation.
Finally, one study published back in 2008 examined the possible effects of various cannabinoids on glaucoma symptoms. This is an eye condition that occurs when the optic nerve becomes damaged. Symptoms can include pain in the eye, blurred vision, rings and lights around the eyes, and vomiting and feeling sick. The scientists suggested that cannabinoids, including CBG, may possibly help to reduce some signs of intraocular pressure. Therefore, it's worth contemplating CBG's potential influence on these discomforts.
The Importance of Further CBG Research
It’s of vital importance to note that CBG research is still in its infancy. Despite the innovative studies, further human trials and peer-reviewed studies are necessary before we can draw any firm conclusions. These developments will also help to determine a standardised dosage for people to use in association with certain symptoms, or simply as a means of supplementing CBG oil into their lifestyle. More research is also necessary in order to understand how CBG may affect the human body.
What to Look For in a CBG Oil Product
While the CBD product market is extremely statured, the CBG oil market offers more breathing space. There are reams of CBD products for people to purchase, such as oils and tinctures, gummies, creams, lotions, drinks, and so many more. For people wishing to supplement their diets with CBG, the choices are significantly less overwhelming.
The main way to consume CBG is via an infused oil. To make CBG oil, manufacturers employ advanced techniques to draw the cannabinoid out of hemp plant material and then dilute the extract with a natural carrier oil. The carrier oil allows the CBG to be more suitable for consumption. CBG oil will typically come with a pipette to allow the user to drop the dosage they require with ease and precision. A popular method of administration is to consume it sublingually. This means that the user will place the CBG drops underneath their tongue, where they may potentially be absorbed via the soft tissue. This method may allow for higher bioavailability, and any potential effects may arise within thirty minutes.
Finding a good CBG oil product can prove a challenge. This is because the market can be unregulated and tricky to navigate. Therefore it’s important that you do your own research to ensure that the product you’re purchasing is safe and reputable. Here are some tips to help you purchase a high-quality CBG oil without any nasty surprises!
Expect to See Evidence of Lab Testing
Lab testing is a vital part of the production process for any cannabinoid product. It’s even better if you can find a product that has undergone third-party lab testing. This type of testing refers to analysis performed by an independent laboratory that is unaffiliated with the manufacturing of the CBG oil. This will therefore produce unbiased results.
Third-party lab testing can determine the concentration of the active biological ingredients, test for the presence of any harmful chemicals or pesticides, and establish the safety profile of the product. Many companies publish the results of their lab reports on their websites or have direct links to them. For some companies, you may be required to do a bit more work and email them to ask to see a copy of their results. This is an important step in ensuring that your chosen CBG oil product is safe to use.
Choose a Trusted Company
It should go without saying, but you should always pay attention to the company that you are purchasing CBG oil from. You should ensure that they are a legitimate company and not an unlicensed seller. The company will need to hold all of the necessary credentials to produce and sell cannabinoid products. Another sure-fire way of judging if a product is worth purchasing is reading through consumer reviews and ratings. This will give you a good idea of the general consensus.
Try Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Finally, another option for you is to use a full-spectrum CBD oil. This type of oil holds all of the compounds found in the hemp plant. These substances include cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. CBD oils and products are sometimes easier to find than CBG oils, and there’s currently more research surrounding the potential benefits. Of course, CBD oils naturally contain CBG compounds. While the THC cannabinoid is also present, regulation-compliant full-spectrum products contain just trace amounts (0.2% or less) so that you can consume them with confidence.
For your information, there are two other types of CBD oil. CBD isolate is 'pure' CBD with no other molecules present, and broad-spectrum CBD contains all hemp-derived phytochemicals except THC.
There is a convincing argument to be made for selecting full-spectrum CBD oil over the other options. Firstly, it can be regarded as the most natural form of cannabinoid consumption, as in comparison to isolate and broad-spectrum, none of the plant compounds have been isolated or changed. Then, we have the phenomenon referred to as the 'entourage effect'. This is the theory that cannabinoids may work together in synergy - possibly unleashing any potential effects in a more dynamic way. This may only be achieved if all of the naturally occurring hemp compounds are present (like they are in full-spectrum products). The possibilities of the entourage effect might just help to create a more favourable experience for the user.
After all, it would be remiss of us to simply focus on CBD, as there’s much more to the cannabis plant than just this cannabinoid. The idea is that all of the cannabinoids could have a role to play and may help to influence our endocannabinoid system (ECS).
PP Health’s Full-Spectrum Oils
Here at PP Health, we truly believe in championing the potential of plants, and the best way to make the most of your botanical wellness routine is through full-spectrum CBD. All of our infused oils contain hemp-derived terpenes, flavonoids, and phenols, in addition to the CBDA, CBC, CBN, CBV and CBG cannabinoids. Let’s take a look at the oils in more detail.
Classic CBD Oil
We only select the very best plants for our oils, and Classic CBD Oil is no exception to this rule. Our plants are expertly cultivated and organically grown in Switzerland. We select mature hemp in order to ensure that the CBD is of the highest quality. The plants are grown in greenhouses, as this not only ensures their protection, but also prevents potentially dangerous substances and chemicals from blowing in from other farms or fields. Of course, rigorous lab testing also helps to verify the absence of any unwanted chemicals. Our Classic CBD Oil product can be purchased in a range of concentrations (5%, 10%, 20%, or 25%) so that you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences. The carrier oil is natural hemp seed oil, which may carry more wellness potential in the form of essential fatty acids.
Gold Mild CBD Oil
Organic olive oil is the carrier oil we use in our Gold Mild CBD Oil. This means that antioxidants and other olive-derived chemicals can accompany any potential CBD benefits. This infused oil is rich in essential fatty acids, in particular omega 6 and omega 3. A gentle extraction process is used to obtain the natural compounds from the cannabis plant. Carbon dioxide alters the pressure of the gas so that it behaves like a liquid. The liquid (in CO2 form) is then used to make the extraction from the hemp plant. This process does not involve heat, as low temperatures help the sensitive and potentially precious vitamins and enzymes to remain in their natural form. This allows people to experience full-spectrum hemp with gold-standard natural ingredients. Our Gold Mild Oil can be purchased in CBD concentrations of either 10%, 20%, or 30%.
Superb Boost CBD Oil
Our Boost CBD Oil belongs to our Superb collection. With this infusion, we are offering a different version of full-spectrum CBD oil, as it is water-based. Here, the CBD and other cannabinoids are smaller and dissolved in water. This may potentially allow for the rapid absorption of the product. After all, the human body is roughly 60% water, therefore it’s used to absorbing it! Plus, our Superb Boost CBD Oil is extremely easy to mix with drinks. You can purchase this product in 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% CBD concentrations.
How to Consume Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
So, how do you consume full-spectrum CBD oil? Much like CBG oil, this type of oil can be consumed sublingually (under the tongue). It can also be combined with food and drink, although this edible method doesn’t typically allow for a quick absorption time. The oil needs to pass through the liver and digestive system before it potentially reaches the bloodstream. This process may take up to two hours. Hence why we have created our Superb Boost CBD Oil for a possibly accelerated experience!
Dosing full-spectrum CBD oil (or simply CBG oil) is an extremely personal process. It will largely depend on your own unique preferences. We would recommend that you begin with a low dose and adjust it if needed.
Final Thoughts
So, there we have it – that ends our complete guide to CBG. It's a cannabinoid that's garnering more scientific interest and attention from consumers as time goes by, and we can see why! As we have discovered, there are studies indicating that CBG may have potential wellness benefits which might influence symptoms of inflammation, appetite challenges, and more. It is important to remember that the research is still expanding, although CBG has been included in some exciting studies so far.
If you are concerned about how this cannabinoid may interact with your current medications, then it may be best to speak to a doctor, or simply avoid consuming it. It is vital that you conduct your own research before making a purchase of CBG oil - such as looking at reviews, ensuring that the company is legitimate, and reading third-party lab reports.
If you are new to cannabinoid products in general, then we would recommend beginning with a full-spectrum CBD oil that contains the CBG cannabinoid (along with many other substances). Not only can you explore the potential perks of the entourage effect, but you may also influence your overall wellbeing!
