What Are the Benefits of CBG? Focus, Inflammation, and More

While there's no doubt that CBD has become a hot topic in health and wellness, there's a new cannabinoid making a notable impression on the scene — cannabigerol (CBG).

We're calling it a "new" cannabinoid, but it's not technically new.

It's nicknamed the mother of all cannabinoids because its natural form, cannabigerolic acid, transforms into tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDa), as the plant matures.

CBG is only now taking center stage in pharmacological studies and making a splash in cannabis product marketing, but it’s clear that CBG is a minor cannabinoid with major potential.

The benefits of CBG include improvements in focus and appetite, reduction in stress, anxiety, enhancement of eye health, alleviation of inflammation, support for metabolism, and relief from aches and pains. Preliminary research indicates that CBG combats inflammation and nausea, possibly slows the growth of cancer cells, and lowers eye pressure related to glaucoma.

As studies continue to explore its effectiveness in treating conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, and cancer, it's important to note that the FDA has not recognized CBG as a cure for these conditions. 

7 CBG Benefits According To Recent Studies

Research on CBG is still in its early stages, and there's much more to learn about its potential benefits and side effects. In the meantime, we’ve rounded up some of the most compelling studies so far on this “mother of all phytocannabinoids.”

1. Focus 

Users often report a sense of alertness or focus when taking CBG. One of the possible explanations for this effect is that CBG has shown great potential as a neuroprotectant [1].

CBG helps to support healthy inflammatory function and has even been shown to possibly support neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells, which may help to support long-term brain health.

Another way CBG is hypothesized to support focus is by reducing stress through interactions at GABA receptor sites, which manage the fight-or-flight response [2].

The idea here is that by reducing stress, you're more present and better able to focus on the task at hand. While more research is needed to investigate the benefits of CBG for focus, this is still one of the major reasons people are turning towards CBG products.

2. Healthy Appetite

If you associate marijuana, the cannabis high in THC, with “the munchies” you may be curious to know if CBG works for appetite too.

CBG seems to share this appetite-stimulating trait with THC, and combining the two may create an even more effective product for supporting a healthy appetite, which may help certain people get an adequate amount of nutrients.

Overindulging in junk food is typically what comes to mind with the marijuana munchies. However, there are cases in which an increase in appetite is beneficial, such as for those experiencing a lack of appetite from chemotherapy treatment.

In a study conducted with rats, CBG was found to increase the appetite in well-satiated rats without producing any dangerous side effects [3].

3. Anxiety Relief

When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol to help you tackle the challenge. However, if stress becomes too frequent or prolonged, it can affect your overall health.

CBG may support the body’s ability to handle stress by interacting with cannabinoid receptors, potentially helping to balance the stress response and encourage feelings of calm and relaxation. This effect could be particularly beneficial during times when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

One of the many reasons people turn to hemp-derived CBD oil is to manage their emotional well-being. As we touched on briefly, CBG may extend to supporting a normal stress response, too.

Both CBD and CBG help to inhibit the breakdown of the neurotransmitter GABA. Increased concentrations of GABA may have potent relaxation effects that help to regulate the stress response [2].

However, there's another mechanism at play in which CBG helps to support stress management. CBG happens to be a potent 5-HT1A serotonin receptor antagonist [4].

Studies suggest that CBG inhibits serotonin's uptake, which means a higher concentration of this neurotransmitter may stay active in the brain, helping to support mood [5].

Many people have shared personal experiences of using CBG for anxiety relief, but there’s a lack of substantial clinical trials on humans to confirm its effectiveness.

One frequently mentioned study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. In this study, researchers found that a single 20 mg dose of CBG significantly reduced anxiety and stress and improved verbal memory in healthy adults, without causing impairment or noticeable drug effects [6].

4. Support Eye Health

Eye tissues contain a high concentration of cannabinoid receptors, suggesting that cannabinoids like CBG could influence ocular health.

High levels of eye pressure (ocular hypertension) can result in poor blood flow to the optic nerves, affecting vision.

While research in this area is still fairly new, a recent study suggests that cannabinoids, notably CBG, may help regulate a healthy level of intraocular eye pressure [7].

5. Normal Inflammatory Response

While CBD is known for supporting a healthy immune system, CBG has been shown in mice to target specific pathways linked to inflammation [8].

According to a recent study, CBG limited the actions of significant inflammatory markers, including IL-1, IL-10, iNOS, and interferon-γ.

What does CBG do for the inflammatory function in simpler terms?

CBG may help to control the activity of molecules that cause inflammation (inflammatory markers), which means that with more research, CBG may be proven to have therapeutic benefits for fighting diseases that involve inflammation.

6. Healthy Metabolic Process

There isn't any evidence that any cannabinoids can directly help with melting away stubborn fat. However, a study published in 2019 supports CBG's potential to affect fat storage, specifically, adipocyte tissues closely associated with obesity [9].

This study was conducted via computer simulation, but its positive findings help to progress this research into animal and human studies on CBG and fat metabolism needed to substantiate this benefit.

7. Comfort Support

Most of the research on CBG’s impact on pain has been conducted in murine models. This means the results aren’t directly aligned with the potential implications CBG would have on human bodies. 

However, these studies show great promise and often promote further research, which may lead to clinical trials on human bodies. In a 2023 study, CBG acted as an acute analgesic in mice with a model of cisplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy [10].

People who have discovered CBG's benefits also claim it works wonders for their aches and pains.

CBG is found to exhibit more analgesic (comfort-inducing) effects than THC and is a much better GABA reuptake inhibitor than both THC and CBD [11]. Additionally, while we've briefly touched on GABA's effects on the stress response, it may also have therapeutic potential as a muscle relaxant.

Benefits of CBG Compared to CBD, CBN and CBDa

When comparing CBG to other prominent cannabinoids such as CBN (cannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and CBDa (cannabidiolic acid), several distinct attributes come to the forefront.

CBG, unlike CBD and CBDa, is renowned for its potential to enhance focus. This makes CBG a sought-after choice for those requiring cognitive clarity and sharpness, differentiating it from the calming effects often associated with CBD and CBN.

While CBG and CBD have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties, some users have found CBG more effective in managing specific inflammatory conditions.

CBN, on the other hand, is often associated with its sedative properties, making it more suitable for individuals looking for sleep aids.

As a result, many consumers choose CBG over other cannabinoids for its unique blend of cognitive enhancement and inflammation management, without the sedative effects of CBN or the broad calming nature of CBD.

What's the Best Way to Take CBG?

To get the most from CBG, the delivery method matters. Each CBG formulation offers unique advantages in how it's absorbed and how quickly it takes effect.

What is CBG Isolate? 

Cannabigerol (CBG) isolate is an extract that contains pure CBG — 98% or higher. It’s an odorless and tasteless white crystalline powder.

Many people report that CBG isolate helps improve focus and energy levels, making it a popular choice for smoothies, breakfast bowls, and in a morning coffee. 

Distributors and wellness brands often purchase bulk CBG isolate powder to infuse into products like CBG gummies, isolate oils, capsules, topicals, or vape juices. 

What are CBG Gummies? 

CBG gummies are sometimes used to support energy and focus, as CBG may stimulate mental clarity and alertness. Unlike caffeine or other stimulants, CBG gummies work by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, focus, and motivation. 

Many people find that CBG in gummies promotes a sustained boost in energy without the jitters or crashes associated with traditional energy products. CBG gummies are a good option for those seeking natural support for productivity, concentration, and overall vitality. Some individuals also explore CBG as a potential aid for managing focus-related challenges, such as those associated with ADHD.

In addition, because CBG is non-intoxicating, the main benefit of these gummies is that they can be taken during the day to enhance alertness and focus without affecting clarity or mental sharpness.

Unpacking CBG's Benefits 

Most of the research surrounding the cannabis plant has centered around THC and CBD, as they're the most abundant compounds. However, there are over a hundred more minor cannabinoids that contribute to hemp's health benefits.

As the parent molecule to many different cannabinoids and their non-psychoactive effects, CBG stands out as the next big compound. You'll likely see more of it in health and wellness spaces as more selective breeding, early crop harvesting, and CBG isolation become more available and popular. 

Hemp-derived CBG products are controlled under the same laws as CBD. As long as the CBG is derived from hemp crops that contain less than 0.3% THC, CBG is legal in the United States and Canada. 

To ensure you're getting effective and safe CBD or CBG oils, look for reputable brands, verify the source of the hemp, and always consult third-party lab reports.

FAQs

1. What Is CBG?

CBG stands for cannabigerol. It’s one of the many non-psychoactive minor cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. CBG has the nickname “the parent molecule” because its raw form, cannabigerolic acid, is the precursor to CBD and THC.

2. What Is CBG Good For?

The research on CBG is still new, but it shows promise in supporting brain health, normal inflammation, and relief from discomfort. It shares many of the same benefits as CBD but with an emphasis on focus and alertness, making it ideal for daytime use.

3. Does CBG Get You High?

CBG is not considered a psychoactive cannabinoid and does not produce intoxicating effects as THC does — the main psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana.

4. How Does CBG Make You Feel?

CBG can affect individuals differently based on factors like cannabinoid tolerance, genetics, and lifestyle. However, many users report feeling more focused, alert, and calmly energized when using CBG, making it a popular productivity aid. 

CBG would not be our first pick of cannabinoids for sleep, but it promotes a sense of calm, so it shouldn’t be ruled out as an option. As we mentioned above, CBG interacts with cannabinoid receptors to promote a sense of calm. This can support easing into a nighttime routine.

6. Can You Get CBG In Marijuana Edibles?

CBG isn’t only found in hemp. It’s also present in marijuana. In weed gummies, which contain higher levels of THC, CBG may help take the edge off the high, creating a calmer, more focused experience.

Resources

1. Valdeolivas, S., Navarrete, C., Cantarero, I., Bellido, M. L., Muñoz, E., & Sagredo, O. (2015). Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in Huntington’s disease: studies in R6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice. Neurotherapeutics, 12, 185-199.

2. Banerjee, S. P., Snyder, S. H., & Mechoulam, R. (1975). Cannabinoids: influence on neurotransmitter uptake in rat brain synaptosomes. The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, 194(1), 74–81.

3. Brierley, D. I., Samuels, J., Duncan, M., Whalley, B. J., & Williams, C. M. (2016). Cannabigerol is a novel, well-tolerated appetite stimulant in pre-satiated rats. Psychopharmacology, 233(19), 3603-3613. 

4. Bantick, R. A., Rabiner, E. A., Hirani, E., de Vries, M. H., Hume, S. P., & Grasby, P. M. (2004). Occupancy of agonist drugs at the 5-HT1A receptor. Neuropsychopharmacology, 29(5), 847-859.

5. Cascio, M. G., Gauson, L. A., Stevenson, L. A., Ross, R. A., & Pertwee, R. G. (2010). Evidence that the plant cannabinoid cannabigerol is a highly potent α2‐adrenoceptor agonist and moderately potent 5HT1A receptor antagonist. British journal of pharmacology, 159(1), 129-141.

6. Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z. D., & Russo, E. (2024). Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 16163.

7. Nadolska, K., & Goś, R. (2008). Possibilities of applying cannabinoids' in the treatment of glaucoma. Klinika Oczna, 110(7-9), 314-317.

8. Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., ... & Izzo, A. A. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical pharmacology, 85(9), 1306-1316.

9. D'Aniello, E., Fellous, T., Iannotti, F. A., Gentile, A., Allarà, M., Balestrieri, F., ... & Di Marzo, V. (2019). Identification and characterization of phytocannabinoids as novel dual PPARα/γ agonists by a computational and in vitro experimental approach. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-General Subjects, 1863(3), 586-597.

10. Nachnani, R., Sepulveda, D. E., Booth, J. L., Zhou, S., Graziane, N. M., Raup-Konsavage, W. M., & Vrana, K. E. (2023). Chronic cannabigerol as an effective therapeutic for cisplatin-induced neuropathic pain. Pharmaceuticals, 16(10), 1442.

11. Russo, E. B. (2008). Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 4(1), 245-259.

12. Alger, B. E. (2013, November). Getting high on the endocannabinoid system. In Cerebrum: the Dana forum on brain science (Vol. 2013). Dana Foundation.

Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.