All about CBD and THC

When it comes to popular cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, CBD and THC are the ones that always come to mind since they are considered major cannabinoids. CBD is popular for its calming effect on the mind and body, while THC is known for the psychoactive “high” that it brings. But other lesser-known cannabinoids are gaining more interest, such as CBG. Hence, it is critical to know the difference between CBD and CBG.

Research has shown that CBD and CBG share similar characteristics – these two cannabinoids have no psychoactive effects and provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties.

But there are specific differences too, which are something to consider when choosing which cannabinoid to use.

WHAT IS CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is naturally found in high amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. Through the years, the therapeutic properties of CBD have been discovered, particularly its ability to provide relief for symptoms of pain, anxiety, and nausea.

The sedative qualities of CBD are noted as well. It was also discovered that CBD could be used as a treatment for severe cases of childhood epilepsy.

This compound can interact with CB1 and CBC cannabinoid receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing pain, inflammation, and even sensitivity to heat.

Because of this, CBD has become the cannabinoid of choice for many, especially given its non-psychoactive properties. This is its main difference from THC, which can make one anxious, paranoid, or get impaired cognitive function along with the benefits.

WHAT IS CBG?

Cannabigerol, or CBG, is one of the minor cannabinoids found in cannabis plants and hemp plants. Cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, is produced by young hemp plants. CBGA breaks down into cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) as the plant matures. These two compounds turn into CBD and THC, while the remaining CBGA converts into CBG.

CBG didn’t get much attention compared to those other cannabinoids initially, and there were limited studies about it. What’s known is that CBG does possess specific therapeutic effects, including pain-relieving effects that can be more effective than THC. CBG is also reported to have antibacterial qualities, work as an antidepressant, and even an anticancer option.

CBG can interact with the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, like CBD.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CBD AND CBG?

For starters, CBD and CBG have different molecular structures – the way oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon are arranged in the two compounds are different. The molecular structure of a cannabinoid affects how they bind with receptors and their bioavailability.

CBD and CBG also differ in terms of how they activate receptors. A study examining how the two compounds interact with the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor showed that CBD acts as an agonist because of its strong anti-nausea effects while CBG acts as an antagonist.

The two are also different when it comes to how they stimulate one’s appetite. A study on rats discovered that CBD reduces food intake significantly, while CBG has made the animals eat twice their usual food intake.

CBD VS. CBG: THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS

The medical benefits of CBD are very well-known. Aside from the calming relaxation it brings, without the psychoactive high, this prominent cannabinoid can also help alleviate or treat certain chronic pain conditions, hypertension, and digestive health conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Crohn’s Disease.

CBD is also helpful as a potential treatment for autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.

Meanwhile, CBG is known for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties. It has also shown potential as an anticancer compound that inhibits the growth of cancer cells. It can also reduce inflammation without causing the high that THC produces.

CBD VS. CBG: WHICH IS BETTER

It depends on what condition you are trying to treat. If you’re dealing with anxiety and other mood disorders, or seizures caused by epilepsy, then CBD is probably the best option for you.

If you’re dealing with migraines, hypertension, glaucoma, cancer, and irritable bowel syndrome, then CBG may be better suited to the task.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TAKE CBD AND CBG?

There are lots of products that can make consuming CBD and CBG easy and convenient. One is via tinctures – CBD and CBG extracts can be taken sublingually (under the tongue), orally, or topically.

Because it’s easy to use and contains higher concentrations of CBD per serving, tinctures have become the most favored way of taking CBD and CBG. There are also CBG topicals that are meant to alleviate pain, inflammation, and other skin conditions.

A CBG isolate is also an option if you’re looking for a pure form of CBG. You can also try full-spectrum CBG oil if you prefer products containing all of the compounds occurring naturally in the hemp plant.

WHICH IS BEST FOR SLEEP, CBD OR CBG?

Both CBG and CBD are proven effective in helping achieve better sleep, but they work differently. CBD doesn’t interact with the CB receptors in the brain, unlike CBG. This means that using CBD will not make you feel tired or groggy.

But CBG effectively reduces stress and anxiety, making it a sensible choice for those with sleeping problems due to stress or anxiety.

CBG VS. CBD: HOW THEY ARE USED

Both CBD and CBG have similar potential health benefits because they reduce pain sensations in the brain. But CBD is more suited for keeping inflammation in check because it’s more potent than CBG, which means you don’t need to use as much of the product to achieve the desired effect.

However, CBG is more effective in easing muscle soreness and treating migraines.

The side effects of these cannabinoids are also different. CBD can cause tiredness and fatigue in some users, while CBG can cause dry mouth and elevated heart rate while decreasing blood pressure.

Because of these differences, it’s not recommended to mix CBD with CBG in treating health issues. Another essential thing to consider is that the FDA has not yet approved either. It’s best to consult with a medical professional before using products with CBD and CBG, especially if you’re taking prescription medications, have a medical condition, pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to undergo surgery.

BEST PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN BOTH CBD AND CBG

Here are some of your better options if you’re looking for hemp-derived products that have CBD or CBG:

CBD Full Spectrum Oils

These broad-spectrum oils have various strengths. They come in delicious flavors such as citrus, mint, cookies & cream, and strawberry. The broad-spectrum oil is produced using the highest quality hemp, and each batch of the oils is made from refined broad-spectrum extract. Some oils are free from dairy, GMOs, and pesticides.

Premium CBD Drops

These oils are meant to calm the body and mind and help keep you focused, whether you are trying to get through a rough day at work or dealing with physical pain. Some of these drops are plant-based, made of organic ingredients, and non-GMO.

These also come in yummy flavors and different strengths, so you will find something for you whether you are an experienced consumer or a newbie.

CBG + Full Spectrum CBD Oils

These oils combine the benefits of full spectrum CBD extract and Cannabigerol (CBG). These are extracted and separated from organically raised hemp that contains more amounts of CBG. These oils are more than 98% pure and tested thoroughly for potency, solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants.

No matter which product you choose, the key is to buy only high-quality products backed by third-party testing that lists all the ingredients and indicates their potency.