CBD and CBG are both derived from the hemp plant and offer unique but similar effects. Is it better to take them separately or combine them? Well, it depends on your personal wellness goals, but there are some advantages to combining CBG and CBD.
CBD and CBG Together Benefits
Calming, relaxing, mood-boosting, and potentially relieving… are just a few of the commonly reported benefits of CBD and CBG together. While CBD and CBG have some unique benefits, they meld into a harmonious formula when combined.
What Does the CBD and CBG Combo Do?
CBD and CBG interact with the endocannabinoid system when combined to complement each other in the ECS.
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].
When combined, you may experience the 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.
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.
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.
CBG or CBD 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. 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.
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.
