CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis. With significant ongoing research on these compounds, there has been more emerging research on the other naturally-occurring cannabinoids and terpenes. One of the lesser-known cannabinoids in cannabis plants is called cannabigerol. Cannabigerol, or CBG, is being researched for its own therapeutic potential and has been gaining recognition among consumers, scientists, and companies in the cannabis industry alike. With the nickname "mother of all cannabinoids", the non-intoxicating cannabinoid may have its own set of therapeutic potential to offer.
The Background on CBG
Considered a minor cannabinoid, CBG generally occurs naturally at less than 1% in most cannabis strains. A little background on cannabinoid production, cannabis produces cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) which is a precursor for three main cannabinoids. Through various processes, plant enzymes break down and convert CBGA to cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). Once these acids are exposed to heat or UV light, they convert to cannabinoids CBD, THC, and CBC. When it comes to most cannabis strains, the CBGA tends to convert directly to either CBDA or THCA. Since CBD and THC start as CBGA, the acidic version of CBG, younger cannabis plants will contain more significant amounts of CBG. This means that the more THC or CBD concentration is found in a plant, the less CBG will be present since most of it converts to the former cannabinoids.
Higher CBG concentrations can be obtained through genetic manipulation and cross-breeding of plants in the marijuana family. When it comes to hemp-derived CBG, CBD is naturally higher due to the minimal THC content. In order to maximize CBG concentration, scientists can extract higher levels of CBG by finding the optimal extraction time. This can be around the six to eight week flowering cycle time period. Hemp farmers have also bred high CBG hemp seed for these purposes.
The Potential Benefits of CBG
The research available for CBG is even more limited than the data available for CBD and THC. While still very in its infancy, the science on CBG displays promising therapeutic potential deserving of futher investigation:
- Glaucoma: Since there are cannabinoid receptors located throughout the eye structure, it is believed that CBG may support gluacoma. The vasodilator and neuroprotective potential may help with reducing the intraocular pressure.
- IBD: In an animal study, CBG was able to help lower inflammation for inflammatory bowel disease.
- Huntington's disease: This recent animal study found that CBG may offer neuroprotective properties for preventing nerve cell degeneration in the brain.
- Antibacterial: CBG may offer antibacterial properties that might be particularly effective for Staphylococcus aureus microbial strains that have been found to be resistant to numerous classes of drugs.
- Appetite stimulant: Researchers found that an isolated form of CBG was effective in stimulating the appetite of rats. This may offer a viable solution for a non-psychotropic therapeutic option for cachexia.
- Muscle relaxant: In a study evaluating the impact of different cannabinoids on bladder contraction, CBG showed promise for inhibiting muscle contractions.
- Cancer: One study found that CBG may inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells in mice. Significant clinical research is needed to further investigate this possibility befoe we're able to make any definitive statements.
Work With the Nation's Leading White Label CBD Manufacturer
Tenacious Labs is proud to be the leading white label CBD manufacturer serving the nation and beyond. With the rise in popularity among other cannabinoids, we're happy to help you with custom formulation services, cannabinoid sourcing, and white label support. Our team is always available to guide you through the various cannabinoids and terpenes available for your product needs. For more information regarding CBG, please contact us!
