We all know that medical cannabis and individual cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, are quite popular among people worldwide. Thanks to media and positive scientific literature, both are being widely used for medical and recreational purposes. The industry has grown so fast that producers are now aiming at over 10X growth in the next 5-6 years. However, these two cannabinoids can’t achieve this gigantic feat by themselves. That’s why the scientific community is now focusing on other phytocannabinoids as well. As we know, there are over 100 cannabinoids or chemical compounds produced by single cannabis or hemp flowers; the focus has shifted towards another major cannabinoid now.
You guessed it right — cannabigerol or CBG. This is a primary cannabinoid, which serves as a precursor for most other phytocannabinoids. Though CBG may exhibit similar affinity and characteristics like CBD and THC, some distinct features of this phytocannabinoid allow it to work well against some critical neurological health complications such as Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and antibacterial health issues. In this article, we will discuss in detail the pharmacology of this unique phytocannabinoid, CBG.
So, let’s dive in!
Early Stages Of Cannabigerol
In the early stages of the development of hemp flowers, molecules like olivetolic acid geranyl-pyrophosphate combine to form cannabigerol acid or CBGA. The acidic form of CBG works as a precursor for other acidic cannabinoids like CBDA (Cannabidiolic acid), THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), and CBCA (Cannabichromenic acid). As CBGA is a precursor to other major cannabinoids, its percentage is quite low. Further breakdown of these cannabinoids, including CBGA, due to heat leads to decarboxylation and they attain an “active” form. There is no doubt that since the passing of the Farm Bill, 2018, cannabinoids like CBG have received immense popularity and there’s growing interest in their pharmacology.
All three major cannabinoids, THC, CBD, CBC, and CBG, have different psychological effects. THC gives you euphoric feelings and stimulates appetite, while CBD works as anti-epileptic and anti-inflammatory and does not cause ‘high’. The other two cannabinoids CBG and CBC are still quite unknown and most of the claims regarding their efficacy are either anecdotal or based on small-scale studies conducted on animals. The only thing certain about these cannabinoids is that they both have different ring structures, which shows they both possess distinct properties.
Why CBG?
CBG is the next big frontier for cannabis producers as they have reached a sort of plateau with CBD and THC, especially in the US, and CBG offers a promise. Also, competition has increased manifold in CBD. There are numerous players in the market now, offering unique strains and promising ‘moon’. Plus CBG is being considered as the ‘mother of all cannabinoids’, which comprises the qualities of all cannabinoids. That makes CBG superior among all, at least hypothetically speaking. In vitro and in vivo studies suggest CBG has the potential to emerge as a cure for many health complications.
Any Side-Effects Of CBG?
CBG can cause tiredness. It puts you in relaxation mode. Its consumption in high doses can cause fatigue and grogginess or even diarrhea. Our body can’t handle the high dosage of CBG as it affects our digestive system. Mostly, diarrhea is caused due to excessive consumption of CBG edibles, which allow it to interact directly with our digestive system. You may also experience dry mouth due to the overdose of CBG. CBG also changes your appetite, though the effect may be different for each individual. Some people experience the urge to eat more, while others may not want to eat anything at all. CBG can also bring changes in your weight, but it mostly happens due to the change in appetite.
Pharmacology and Properties Of CBG
In terms of characteristics, CBD easily fits between CBD and THC. Like THC, CBG also combines with both the receptors — CB1 and CB2 — present in our body, though with lower affinity. CBG comes with a plethora of benefits. But, it’s relatively a new kid in the block so producers expect it to catch up with other cannabinoids like CBD and THC in a few years. Unlike these two compounds, CBG is less concentrated. These receptors are found in our brain, nervous system, and immune system. This amalgamation gives you amazing stimulation or a soothing effect, depending upon the kind of product you are using.
As per the initial research, CBG has anti-inflammatory properties. This means that people suffering from inflammatory bowel disease can use CBG to treat the disease. CBG also has antibacterial properties. The compound has proven to be effective against Huntington’s disease. It’s also a great cannabinoid if you have appetite issues. CBG, along with another cannabis compound called CBC (cannabichromene), has shown a great potential to spot tumor cell growth. Colon cancer development can also be stopped via the regulated use of cannabigerol.
How Does The Future Look For CBG and Its Pharmacology?
CBG is here for the long haul, it’s for sure. The cannabinoid is gaining traction among cannabis enthusiasts and more and more people want to experience its unique features. CBG is now being combined with other cannabinoids to give a wholesome experience to cannabis enthusiasts. You get everything from oils to creams to spray and tinctures, all with a touch of CBG. The CBG industry is likely to grow in the future as businesses would invest heavily in understanding cannabinoids more deeply. However, producers will have a tough task of not only fulfilling users’ needs but convincing authorities as well.
So far, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not shown much empathy towards the cannabinoid industry and only three cannabidiol-based drugs have been officially approved. Though markets are flooded with products claiming to cure everything from stress to inflammation, these claims can’t be taken at face value. In essence, CBG will contribute to the cannabis industry’s journey as a whole and due to its distinct features, its market share is going to grow. How bigger it’ll grow in size is something we’ll have to wait to see.
