The cannabis plant has been used for centuries for its therapeutic potential as well as its medicinal properties. A class of substances called cannabinoids (present in cannabis plants) has been shown to have various physiological effects on people. Two of the most popular cannabinoids are CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol).


Unlike THC, CBD and CBG are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids. They have been investigated for their potential therapeutic advantages, and both are becoming more well-known as all-natural treatments for various ailments. 


This article will explore the differences between CBD and CBG and their potential health benefits, side effects, and more. We will also discuss the differences between isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum CBD and CBG products and explore their potential benefits. 


If you are looking to get started with high-quality CBG and CBD products, check out our shop today!


What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)? 

CBG, like CBD, belongs to a group of substances naturally found in the hemp plant called cannabinoids (specifically, plant-based cannabinoids or phytocannabinoids). CBG is a chemical that exists in very low quantities in hemp, making up about 1% of the total cannabinoid content. CBG has to be derived from younger hemp flowers, whereas cannabinoids like CBD and THC are derived from fully developed plants. 


How Does CBG Work On Your System? 

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is thought to have several therapeutic advantages and is the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. 


The endocannabinoid system, which is composed of receptors distributed throughout the body, is what CBG affects. These receptors control pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite. The symptoms of various conditions, including pain and inflammation, can be lessened when CBG binds to these receptors.1 


Pros Of Using CBG 

One key benefit of using CBG is its potential to lessen inflammation. In a study conducted on mice, CBG decreased liver and intestine inflammation.1 The ability of CBG to lessen the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (proteins released by cells that can cause inflammation) is thought to be the cause of this anti-inflammatory effect. 

Also, research shows that CBG possesses antioxidant qualities that could aid the body's defense against oxidative stress.2 A discrepancy between the body's capacity to combat free radicals and their production leads to oxidative stress. Free radicals are unsteady molecules that can harm DNA, proteins, and cells, resulting in many illnesses, including cancer. 


Cons Of Using CBG 

CBG has a lot of potential advantages, but there may also be some disadvantages. One of the most important things to remember is that CBG has not been subjected to as many studies as CBD, so there is still much to learn about its physiological effects. 

The fact that CBG can be challenging to locate in its purest form is one of the main drawbacks of using it. It is challenging to isolate CBG in its purest form because it is typically found in trace amounts in hemp and cannabis plants. Finding effective products with a sufficient amount of CBG can be challenging.

Finally, CBG may have some side effects, although generally mild. Studies show that some people experience dry mouth, dizziness, or low blood pressure.3 


What Is CBD (Cannabidiol)? 

CBD is a derivative of the hemp plant that's well-known to the modern consumer. It binds to receptors in the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) without producing the psychoactive effects of THC. And similar to THC, CBD is known to have various positive effects on human health. 

CBD comes in various forms, including tinctures, edibles, topicals, and more. It can also be combined with other compounds, such as THC, to create a more balanced effect.


How Does CBD Work On Your System? 

CBD works with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help maintain homeostasis and regulate the body's functions. The ECS is made up of endocannabinoids and their receptors, which are found throughout the body. When CBD is introduced into the body, it binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, activating the ECS to produce its own endocannabinoids. 


Pros Of Using CBD 

CBD has many advantages, one of which is its capacity to lessen inflammation. Since it has been discovered that CBD has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it has been used to help lessen the pain and swelling brought on by various diseases, including arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.4 


Additionally, it has been proven to be successful in treating chronic pain, including that brought on by fibromyalgia, MS, and other conditions. 5  

Additionally, studies have shown that CBD successfully treats depression and anxiety. According to studies, both conditions' symptoms - such as anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating - can be lessened with CBD.6 


Cons Of Using CBD 

When it comes to the cons of using CBD, there are a few things to consider. 

First, while CBD is generally considered safe and non-addictive, there is still a lack of research into its long-term effects. 


Additionally, CBD interacts with certain medications and supplements.7 Therefore, speaking to your doctor before starting any CBD regimen is important. 


CBD can also cause minor side effects, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and lightheadedness.8 

In some cases, it can also cause nausea, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or weight.9 


Isolate Vs. Full-Spectrum Vs. Broad-Spectrum 

When it comes to CBD and CBG, there are three main types of products available: isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum. Each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. 


Isolate products contain only isolated cannabinoids, such as CBD or CBG. For those who want to benefit solely from cannabinoids without any other compounds, these products are perfect. Since isolate products are the cannabinoid's purest form, they are the best choice for people sensitive to other substances. 


Full-spectrum products contain all of the compounds found in the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These products are perfect for people who want to benefit from the entourage effect, in which all hemp plant components interact to produce a stronger effect. 


Broad-spectrum products are similar to full-spectrum products but do not contain THC. These products are ideal for those who want to take advantage of the hemp plant's benefits without THC's potential psychoactive effects. 


It's important to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum products. 


Isolate products are ideal for those who want to take advantage of the benefits of a single cannabinoid without any other compounds. In contrast, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products are ideal for those who want to take advantage of the entourage effect. 


CBG Vs. CBD: What Are The Key Differences? 

The interaction of CBG and CBD with the body's endocannabinoid system is the most obvious distinction between them. While CBD targets the CB2 receptor, CBG targets the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Also, CBG will have a more immediate impact on the body, while CBD will have a more gradual one. 


In addition to helping lessen pain and inflammation, CBG is also known to have a stronger anti-inflammatory effect than CBD. This makes it an excellent choice for people who experience inflammation and chronic pain. 


The most obvious distinction between CBG and CBD is how they affect the body's endocannabinoid system. CBG targets the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, whereas CBD targets the CB2 receptor. CBG will therefore have a quicker effect on the body, whereas CBD will have a more gradual one. 


CBG is well known for having a stronger anti-inflammatory effect than CBD, helping reduce pain and inflammation. This makes it a fantastic option for those who deal with inflammation and persistent pain. 


As a result, while CBG and CBD interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, their effects and modes of action vary. Knowing the distinctions between the two cannabinoids will help you choose the best option. 



CBG And CBD: Health Benefits Of Taking Them Together 

The advantages of combining CBG and CBD for health are numerous. 


According to studies, the union of these two cannabinoids can have various positive effects, such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and even the capacity to lessen anxiety.10 


CBG and CBD have a synergistic effect, which means they can strengthen one another's effects. While CBG has been discovered to have anti-anxiety properties, CBD is well known for being an anti-inflammatory.11 These two cannabinoids work better as therapeutic agents when combined than when taken separately. 


One of the most common uses of CBG and CBD is for pain relief. Both cannabinoids have been shown in studies to lessen pain and inflammation. They are, therefore, a fantastic option for people with conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis that cause chronic pain.10 


Combining CBG and CBD may also lessen anxiety. While CBG has been shown to have anti-anxiety properties, studies have shown that CBD can lessen anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder. A stronger effect may result from combining the two cannabinoids than from taking either alone.10 


Finally, CBG and CBD have been found to have anti-seizure properties. Studies have shown that taking CBD and CBG together can reduce seizure frequency in people with epilepsy.11 This makes them a potentially effective treatment for those suffering from this condition. 


Choosing Which Cannabinoid Is Better For You 

CBG and CBD offer potential health benefits, but they are different compounds and work differently in the body. It is important to consider your individual needs and goals when making a decision. 


CBD might be your best option if you're looking for a substance that can reduce inflammation and pain. Since CBD has anti-inflammatory effects, it may help to lessen inflammation in the body. It is also well known for having calming and relaxing effects and can relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia. 


On the other hand, CBG might be your best bet if you're looking for a substance that can aid in focus and mental clarity. As well as its potential to reduce anxiety and treat depression, CBG is well known for its capacity to improve mental clarity and focus. 


When deciding which is best for you, it is important to consider your individual needs and goals. Consider what you want to achieve, and then research each compound's potential benefits and drawbacks. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider for their opinion, and then make an informed decision. 


Final Thoughts 

CBG and CBD are both powerful cannabinoids with many potential benefits. And while these benefits outweigh the drawbacks, it’s important to do your research and find reputable brands before purchasing any of these products. That way, you can get the most out of your experience with the best possible product. 


For high-quality CBG and CBD products, check out BATCH today! We offer top-notch cannabis products that are organic, single-sourced (grown right here in Wisconsin), and lab-tested for quality assurance and peace of mind. 

Visit our shop today and reap the benefits of our high-quality cannabis products


Sources: 

  1. Kogan, N. M., Lavi, Y., Topping, L. M., Williams, R. O., McCann, F. E., Yekhtin, Z., Feldmann, M., Gallily, R., & Mechoulam, R. (2021, September 15). Novel CBG derivatives can reduce inflammation, pain and obesity. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8467477/.  
  2. di Giacomo, V., Chiavaroli, A., Recinella, L., Orlando, G., Cataldi, A., Rapino, M., Di Valerio, V., Ronci, M., Leone, S., Brunetti, L., Menghini, L., Zengin, G., Ak, G., Abdallah, H. H., & Ferrante, C. (2020, May 18). Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects induced by cannabidiol and cannabigerol in rat Ctx-TNA2 astrocytes and isolated cortexes. International journal of molecular sciences. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7279038/.  
  3. Russo EB;Cuttler C;Cooper ZD;Stueber A;Whiteley VL;Sexton M; (n.d.). Survey of patients employing cannabigerol-predominant cannabis preparations: Perceived medical effects, adverse events, and withdrawal symptoms. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34569849/.  
  4. Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019, December 25). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/.  
  5. Berger AA;Keefe J;Winnick A;Gilbert E;Eskander JP;Yazdi C;Kaye AD;Viswanath O;Urits I; (n.d.). Cannabis and cannabidiol (CBD) for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Best practice & research. Clinical anaesthesiology. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33004171/.  
  6. Rapin, L., Gamaoun, R., El Hage, C., Arboleda, M. F., & Prosk, E. (2021, June 23). Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: Real-world evidence from a Canadian Medical Cannabis Clinic. Journal of cannabis research. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8223341/.  
  7. Balachandran, P., Elsohly, M., & Hill, K. P. (2021, July). Cannabidiol interactions with medications, illicit substances, and Alcohol: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of general internal medicine. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8298645/#:~:text=As%20expected%2C%20CBD%20has
    %20been,acetaminophen%2C%20and%20substances%20including%20alcohol.  
  8. Bellocchio, L., Inchingolo, A. D., Inchingolo, A. M., Lorusso, F., Malcangi, G., Santacroce, L., Scarano, A., Bordea, I. R., Hazballa, D., D'Oria, M. T., Isacco, C. G., Nucci, L., Serpico, R., Tartaglia, G. M., Giovanniello, D., Contaldo, M., Farronato, M., Dipalma, G., & Inchingolo, F. (2021, August 3). Cannabinoids drugs and oral health-from recreational side-effects to medicinal purposes: A systematic review. International journal of molecular sciences. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8347083/.  
  9. Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017, June 1). An update on safety and side effects of Cannabidiol: A review of Clinical Data and relevant animal studies. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/.  
  10. Mammana, S., Cavalli, E., Gugliandolo, A., Silvestro, S., Pollastro, F., Bramanti, P., & Mazzon, E. (2019, November 18). Could the combination of two non-psychotropic cannabinoids counteract neuroinflammation? effectiveness of cannabidiol associated with Cannabigerol. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6915685/.  
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January 01, 2024 — Griffin Lynch

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