Cannabis is packed with beneficial compounds called cannabinoids that provide amazing benefits. There are two you probably already know: THC & CBD.

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the most well known cannabinoid because it’s what gets you high. Cultivators have been trying to maximize the amount of THC in their plants since 1964, when it was discovered by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the next most popular because it’s widely used in wellness products and is great for relaxation. It doesn’t produce the same euphoria as THC, but it can be extremely helpful for managing pain and conditions like epilepsy.

To quote Master Yoda,“There is another.” Well, to be precise, there are over 100 other cannabinoids. But our focus for now is CBG.

“There is another”

Master Yoda

What is CBG?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is quickly becoming one of the more explored of the minor cannabinoids. It usually represents less than 1% of the total cannabinoids in any plant, but breeders, tantalized by its potential medical benefits are quickly working to increase its presence.

Some people refer to CBG as a “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids come from it. The cannabis plant produces it as CBGa, which converts to CBG when decarbed or heated. It is not psychotropic, so it won’t make you feel stoned.

What are the benefits of CBG? 

Scientists and doctors are very excited about potential medical applications for CBG. There aren’t too many studies at present, but those that have been conducted show:

• CBG has antibacterial properties and might be useful in fighting antibiotic resistant strains of staph, like MRSA. 
• As an isolated compound, it has been shown to slow cancer cell growth and stimulate appetites, in rat studies. 
• It may be able to block some of the cell receptors associated with the spread of colorectal cancer. 
• CBG can provide relief of intraocular pressure, making it potentially valuable for glaucoma patients. 
• It’s a neuroprotectant, which means it could support Alzheiner and dementia patients.

We’re not really sure about everything CBG can do. Right now, we know that it works with the endocannabinoid system (the collection of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes that regulate several human functions like sleep, mood, and appetite).

There aren’t many people studying CBG, but what’s been discovered so far is incredibly promising, which should lead to more research in the future.