What is CBG oil? Benefits, risks and more

Hemp plant has been known since ancient times for its therapeutic properties, which are directly related to the cannabinoids found in these plants. CBG oil is a hemp-derived product that contains cannabigerol (CBG), one of over 120 different cannabinoids found in hemp, which is non-psychoactive. CBG is particularly valuable because it is a precursor from which other cannabinoids, including CBD, are formed.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at CBG oil, its properties and potential health benefits. Dive into the world of science and learn how this interesting cannabinoid differs from the well-known CBD, and what impact it can have on our health.

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    Note: This and other articles on Hempo's blog are for informational purposes only. According to the directive of the European Commission, cannabidiol is classified as a 'novel food', therefore CBD products should not be used as a food supplement in Lithuania.

    Hempo CBG oil

    What is CBG oil?

    Cannabigerol (CBG) is a type of cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. It is often called the "mother of all cannabinoids". This is because all other cannabinoids are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the acidic form of CBG.

    CBG is the first cannabinoid that is formed in hemp plants, therefore, in order to extract this substance, young - before fully matured - hemp plants are usually used, because as the plant matures, less and less CBG remains; instead, the plant produces more of other cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBN. Young hemp plants contain cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), and as the plant matures, CBGA naturally converts to CBDA and CBNA, which can then be converted to CBD and CBN when activated by heat.

    CBG is available in many forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, creams, and lotions. CBG oil is often combined with CBD in these products because the two cannabinoids can provide dual benefits such as reducing inflammation and pain.

    What is the difference between CBG and CBD?

    Although CBD and CBG are similar in that neither has psychoactive effects, their molecular makeup is quite different, so each has slightly different effects on the body.

    Experts say one of the main differences between CBD and CBG is that the effects of CBD have been studied much longer and more widely than CBG. Research that focuses on CBG is usually done on animals or a small group of people. For this reason, the potential benefits of CBG oil are not supported by scientific research.

    With this in mind, there are some known similarities and differences between CBG and CBD. For example, CBD and CBG are non-psychoactive compounds (meaning neither causes a high feeling) and have anti-inflammatory properties. However, because the molecular structures of cannabinoids are different, their effects are slightly different.

    For example, preliminary research suggests that CBG oil stimulates appetite, while CBD oil suppresses it.

    Potential Benefits of CBG Oil

    Research shows that CBG oil may have therapeutic effects. Although more research is needed to know exactly the effects and potential health benefits of this cannabinoid, here are some of the results.

    Anxiety and depression

    One small study found that the main reason people use hemp products containing CBG was to relieve perceived stress or anxiety, and one in three was to relieve depression. The majority of users indicated that they found CBG oil to be more effective than conventional prescription drugs for these purposes.

    Chronic pain

    In the mentioned study, the second most common reason people used CBG oil was for chronic pain relief. 74% of respondents indicated that CBG oil worked better than traditional medications. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for three months or longer, and this condition affects approximately one in five adults.

    In the aforementioned study, the second most common reason people used CBG oil was to relieve chronic pain. 74% of people reported that CBG oil worked better than traditional medicine. Chronic pain is pain that lasts for three months or longer. This type of condition affects about one in five adults.

    Inflammatory bowel diseases

    According to one 

    US study, 15-40% of people with inflammatory bowel disease use hemp and its products to increase appetite and reduce pain. Although the study identified hemp products as a potential way to fight inflammatory bowel disease, the researchers also added that there is still a lack of evidence to suggest that these products actually work in the fight against bowel disease.

    Glaucoma

    Individuals with elevated intraocular pressure are at risk of developing glaucoma. Several studies have examined the effects of cannabinoids in reducing intraocular pressure. Many of them have found that these hemp compounds can actually lower intraocular pressure in humans and animals, so they can be used to treat glaucoma.

    Huntington's disease

    Huntington's disease causes nerve cells in the brain to break down. CBG oil appears to have a positive effect on cell viability while protecting certain cells (N2a) from the negative effects of activating neurotransmitters that, when activated too long, cause cell death.

    Cancer (Oncological diseases)

    According to a meta-analysis conducted in 2021, CBG oil not only inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells, but can also kill inflammatory cells associated with this type of cancer.

    Bacterial infections

    A study conducted in 2020 of hemp's antibiotic potential found CBG to have antibacterial properties, particularly against methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus is a drug-resistant bacterium that causes staph infections.

    Potential dangers of CBG

    In order to ensure the safety and exact composition of CBG oil products, it is very important to ensure that the product has undergone third-party laboratory testing. These results should be readily available on each vendor's website.

    CBG is generally considered safe if taken exactly as directed on the package, according to some doctors. It is always important to check and analyze all the information provided by the seller before purchasing products with CBG, and if you have any questions, ask the seller. Individuals with medical conditions or taking dietary supplements or medications should consult a healthcare professional before trying any product containing CBG.

    CBG Side Effects

    Some people experience side effects when taking CBG, the most common of which are:

    - dry mouth
    - drowsiness
    - increased appetite
    - dry eyes

    Research on the potential side effects and drug interaction risks of CBG and other cannabinoids is increasing, but not enough research has yet been done, to be able to name them all accurately.

    Summary

    While CBG oil is promising for its potential health benefits, more research is needed to learn about its side effects, risks, and more. Until we understand exactly how this cannabinoid works, it remains unclear whether it is safe to use, and if so, what amounts would be most beneficial.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is CBG oil?

    CBG oil is a hemp-derived product whose main active ingredient is cannabigerol (CBG), one of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. CBG is also called the mother of all cannabinoids because it is from its acidic form that all other cannabinoids are derived.

    How is CBG different from CBD?

    CBG and CBD are two different cannabinoids with different effects on the body. Their main differences are the molecular structure and the effect they provide. CBG is known for its unique therapeutic potential, such as appetite stimulation, while CBD is better known for its sedative effects.

    What are the benefits of CBG oil?

    According to scientific studies, CBG oil can provide a variety of health benefits and has special antibacterial properties, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, relieving chronic pain, treating inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma and Huntington's disease, as well as helping to fight cancer.

    Is CBG oil safe?

    CBG oil is considered safe when used as directed on the package. However, it is always important to pay attention to the quality and purity of products containing CBG, and to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking prescription medications.

    What are the possible side effects of CBG oil?

    Although side effects of CBG can include dry mouth, drowsiness, increased appetite, and dry eyes, these effects are usually mild and disappear over time. However, when using CBG oil, the individual body's response to this substance and possible interactions with other medications should be taken into account.