Some people find that taking CBG with CBD helps to counteract the sleepiness they feel with higher doses of CBD, allowing them to stay focused in the daytime. Potential benefits may include increased focus, relaxation, physical comfort, and better mood.
Note that the FDA has not approved CBD or CBG as a cure or treatment for any of these conditions, and individual results will vary.
CBD and CBG may work together to boost mood, relaxation, overall relief and more. Side effects are usually minimal, but individual responses vary. Note that CBG can not be considered a cure for any condition, and some people report feeling no effects from CBG at all.
But how does CBD and CBG work in the body?
CBD and CBG interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). When combined, they produce the powerful entourage effect. The entourage effect is a phenomenon where different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in the cannabis plant work together to enhance the effects of each other.
CBD acts as a modulator of CB1 and CB2 receptors, influencing their activity without directly binding to them. CBD also interacts with other receptors like serotonin and TRPV1, which contributes to its effects on pain, mood, and inflammation [1].
On the other hand, CBG acts as a partial agonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors, meaning it binds to and partially activates them. Additionally, CBG has been shown to inhibit the enzyme FAAH, which increases levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide, positively impacting mood and the body’s natural inflammation process [2].
These interactions are why researchers are so interested in CBD and CBG's roles in neurological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and other conditions impacted by inflammation [1, 2].
Compared to CBD, there’s not as much research on CBG, and we’ll need more clinical research before the scientific community can genuinely understand their potential for supporting medical conditions. For now, CBD and CBG products that you purchase online or in stores aren’t FDA-approved to treat any conditions.
Can CBD and CBG Together Work for Sleep?
While the combination of CBD and CBG may help with relaxation, which may, in turn, help with falling asleep, it's not the best combination for sleep promotion. CBD and CBN are a much better combination when thinking about potential sleep support, compared to CBG alone.
While we can’t rule out that the combination of CBD and CBG may support sleep, most people find that CBD and CBG are better suited for daytime use for focus and productivity.
Can There Be Side Effects of Taking CBD and CBG Together?
Yes, there can be side effects when taking CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) together, although they are generally considered mild and well-tolerated.
Both CBD and CBG do not have psychoactive effects, meaning they don't produce the "high" associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). However, like any supplement, they can cause side effects, especially when taken in higher doses or combined with medications. Only you can determine your ideal doses for CBG products — but the best rule of thumb is to start low and go slow, just like with CBD dosing.
Some side effects may be drowsiness, dry mouth, and upset stomach. If you are currently on medication, then you should discuss adding CBD and CBG to your routine with a healthcare professional.
Are Tinctures the Best Product Blend?
Determining the best product really depends on personal preference, but there’s quite an argument to be made that a blend of CBD and CBG oil would be the way to go. A CBD and CBG oil blend is fast-acting, so its effects generally only take 15-30 minutes to set in.
CBD products or CBG products, such as edibles, take longer to kick in. When you consume CBG or CBD through an edible, the edible has to work its way through the digestive system, meaning that it can take up to 2 hours before you feel the effects of the CBD or CBG.
The Takeaway: CBD and CBG Together
The cannabis plant offers many beneficial cannabinoids. Many of them, like CBD and CBG, can complement each other.
Finding a product that offers the entourage effect can be a big plus when looking for CBD products. Mixing CBD and CBG may offer the balance that you’re looking for in cannabinoid products.
References:
- Hegazy, O., & Platnick, H. (2019). Cannabidiol (CBD) for treatment of neurofibromatosis-related pain and concomitant mood disorder: A case report. Cureus, 11(12).
- Henshaw, F. R., Dewsbury, L. S., Lim, C. K., & Steiner, G. Z. (2021). The effects of cannabinoids on pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines: a systematic review of in vivo studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 6(3), 177-195.
