Cannabigerol (CBG) is a lesser known cannabinoid that occurs in lesser quantities than THC and CBD in the cannabis plant. Like CBD, CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, meaning it does not produce the intoxicating effects that are associated with THC. While the presence of CBG is usually less than 1% in most cannabis strains, it is the chemical parents of both THC and CBD. Cannabis plants produce cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is the precursor to the three main cannabinoids that most people are familiar with: tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). In most strains, when CBGA is exposed to ultraviolet light or heat, it is converted into either THCA or CBDA.

POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF CBG

Scientists have recently become excited about the potential health benefits of CBG and are promoting more research. CBG has been found to interact with specific physiological systems which results in promising medicinal uses:

• CBG receptors are thought to bind with the endocannabinoid receptors that are prevalent in eye structures to reduce intraocular pressure. This makes it effective in treating glaucoma. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19112869)
• CBG contains anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-septic properties. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18681481) Topical forms of CBG can be effective in fighting skin infections.
• Studies are now finding that CBG can slow the progression and growth of various tumors and cancer cells. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25269802)
• CBG has been shown to possess neuroprotective properties, making it a possible treatment in slowing brain cell degeneration in Huntington’s Disease. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25252936)