Cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two distinct cannabinoids in the hemp plant. The main difference between them is that THC has intoxicating effects associated with the high from cannabis. But both compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system to support overall well-being.
Differences Between THC and CBG
Similarities of CBG and THC
- Both are known to stimulate appetite
- Interact with the endocannabinoid system to support pain perception, mood, stress, and overall well-being.
- Derived from the cannabis plant
- Not FDA-approved to treat any conditions
- Available in full-spectrum and isolate forms
Despite similarities, CBG and THC are not the same. CBG is different than THC because it's not psychoactive, and won't give you a "high" feeling.
THC vs. CBG: Which Is Safer to Take?
THC and CBG are generally considered non-toxic and safe to use in moderate amounts, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely free of potential risks. For the most part, many people would agree that due to THC’s psychoactive nature, it does carry a greater risk of causing psychological distress in high doses or in the wrong settings. Still, we’ll take a closer look at how each compound compares for safety.
Psychoactivity
- THC: THC is psychoactive, meaning it can alter your mental state and cause a "high." This high is often described as euphoric and one of the many reasons consumers enjoy THC products. However, this effect, for some individuals and in the wrong settings, can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety or paranoia.
Not to mention, when an individual is in a high state, they might not be aware of their surroundings and lack sharp motor control, making them more prone to accidents and poor-decision making. This is why it’s important to use THC in the appropriate doses and a safe and comfortable setting.
- CBG: CBG is not psychoactive, so it does not produce a high. For this reason, CBG is generally considered safer than THC, as it doesn't carry the same risk of causing emotional distress or accidents.
Risk of Dependence
- THC: THC doesn't cause the same physical dependence as substances like heroin, nicotine, or even caffeine, but there is a risk of developing emotional or psychological dependence for some users. People may turn to THC as a way to cope with stress, pain, or boredom, using it as a crutch in difficult situations. This kind of reliance can lead to habitual use, and while most individuals don't experience severe withdrawal symptoms when quitting THC cold turkey, some may notice temporary discomforts like irritability, sleep disturbances, or mood changes. We strongly encourage people to use THC mindfully and recognize if it starts to affect your daily life negatively.
- CBG: CBG hasn’t been linked to dependence, whether physical or emotional. Since CBG is non-psychoactive and doesn't alter one’s state of mind the same way THC does so, it’s less likely to be used as a coping mechanism. Currently, there is no evidence suggesting that regular CBG use leads to dependence or withdrawal symptoms, making it a potentially safer option for those concerned about reliance on cannabinoids. That being said, the research on CBG isn’t as extensive or as old as THC, and we may need more long-term studies to understand its effects in this context.
Side Effects
- THC: Common side effects of THC include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, impaired motor skills, and altered perception of time. In high doses, THC can cause more severe effects, such as temporary paranoia and heightened anxiety. The severity of these side effects are dependent on the dose and the individual’s sensitivity to THC.
- CBG: In comparison, CBG has a much milder side effect profile. It’s generally well-tolerated with few reported adverse effects even in high doses. Because it is non-psychoactive, it avoids the mental and cognitive side effects associated with THC.
So, Which is Safer Overall?
CBG is generally considered safer for most people because it doesn’t have psychoactive properties.
THC can be safe when used appropriately. Its effects can be particularly beneficial for relaxation, where psychoactive effects are favorable. However, this same effect carries more risks, especially for those who are sensitive to its high or prone to substance abuse.
Is CBG Easier to Access Than THC?
Whether CBG is more accessible to access than THC depends mainly on where you live. THC is legal at the federal level in concentrations of less than 0.3% when derived from hemp, meaning hemp-based THC products are accessible in most states. However, if you live in a state where recreational or medical marijuana is legal, you’ll have access to more THC products with higher concentrations.
CBG products, on the other hand, are a newer category of hemp products. While it's considered federally legal, there may not be as many products or variations available, but as the demand for CBG grows, we can expect more options to become available. For now, it can still be harder to find in as many variations compared to THC in states where marijuana is legal.
Can I Take CBG and THC Together?
Yes, you can take CBG and THC together. Many people prefer to consume full spectrum hemp products that contain both CBG and THC due to the “entourage effect.”
This entourage effect enhances the effects of both cannabinoids. Many CBG products may contain trace amounts of THC due to their synergetic balance.
