Cannabigerol is a promising new frontier in pharmacology.
CBG is derived from the natural synthesis of the “mother of all cannabinoids,” cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), earning it many nicknames as well as interest from experts.
In maturing cannabis and hemp plants, enzymes synthesize CBGA into the chemical precursors for THC, CBD and other cannabinoids. Any CBGA left unsynthesized at the end of the plant’s growth cycle converts directly into CBG. This is usually only in trace amounts.
"The study for the first time reports that three acidic cannabinoids found in cannabis reduced seizures in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome, an intractable form of childhood epilepsy." — University of Sydney
Most strains have a CBG content under 1%, though some plants can be crossbred to inhibit enzymatic activity and preserve higher levels of pure CBGA, resulting in CBG contents up to around 10%.
What does CBG do?
CBG was first isolated and synthesized in 1964, but as a rare cannabinoid, has yet to be the focus of significant clinical observation in humans. Its promising pharmacological potential has been studied widely using animal models for its reported anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, anticancer, neuroprotective and antibiotic properties.
Like other cannabinoids, CBG is processed by the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates cell signalling. It acts on the same receptors as THC, but with a lower affinity — the CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, and CB2 receptors in peripheral organs. Unlike THC, however, CBG doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects. For this reason, it’s sometimes referred to as an “inactive” counterpart to THC.
What makes this cannabinoid unique is its interaction at the α2-adrenergic receptor found in nerve endings, which manages the release of norepinephrine, a hormone responsible for regulating blood pressure, heart rate and stress response. This suggests that CBG may help us better understand and manage our “fight or flight” reflexes.
What are the benefits of CBG?
Early findings demonstrate the potential to safely treat the symptoms of chronic and progressive illnesses. CBG was observed to slow disease progression in mice with Huntington’s, and reduce bowel inflammation in mice with induced colitis.
Recent studies have started to examine the impact of CBG on human subjects. In a survey of patients using cannabis to treat anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and pain, CBG was reported to greatly improve symptoms. Its role in treating and protecting against cancer is also being examined in brain tumors and breast, stomach and colorectal cancer cells.
How we use CBG?
Kinloch Wellness delivers CBG in a balanced blend with hemp-derived CBD throughout our Refresh product line, infused with terpenes with tropical and citrus flavours.