There is no doubt about the fact that CBD is indeed the trendiest and commonly used compound of the cannabis plant. However, are you well aware of the differences between the two most popular cannabis plant extracts: CBD and CBG? Primarily, CBG is a precursor of CBD that contains the same compounds but performs different functions. Today, a lot of individuals have begun to show a keen interest in CBG products due to its vast health benefits.
In the beginning, researchers assumed that both compounds have the same characteristics. However, with time, they observed significant differences between them and hence it is important to understand what these are before you decide to choose either one for consumption.
Here’s a general description of CBG vs CBD for your convenience:
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the cannabinoids present in the hemp and flower of the cannabis plant. It is initially seen to be present as a chemical precursor called CBG acid (CBGA) that breaks down into CBDA and THCA. These two compounds then convert into CBD and THC. CBG is present in the hemp of the plant during the blooming phase of the growth.
Moreover, the analgesic properties of CBG overlap the THC analgesic properties without any negative impact. In addition, it works with CB1 and CB2 to cope with inflammation, anxiety, pain, and heat sensitivity. Also, CBG has strong stress and pain-relieving properties which make it more preferable than the other compounds.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most common, and the earliest compound found in higher concentrations in the hemp and flower of the cannabis plant. It is known to cause positive mental, and non-psychoactive impact on the human body. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-nausea, and pain-relieving properties which also makes it a great choice for treating epilepsy in children.
According to research, it is safer than the other weeds. As a matter of fact, its medicinal properties work in curing and treating multiple diseases and health concerns. Furthermore, combining CBD with THC results in boosting the medicinal effects of the weed. Nevertheless, CBD mainly acts on the endocannabidiol system through several pathways.
Major Differences between CBG and CBD
As mentioned above, multiple dissimilarities exist between CBG and CBD. Let’s discuss the top three differences below:
- Molecular Structure
The molecular structure of both CBG and CBD is completely different from each other. The number and arrangement of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen atoms vary in both compounds, thus, constituting different receptors to bind with. This in turn also impacts the bioavailability of cannabinoids and solubility in water of both compounds accordingly.
- Pharmacology
CBG acts as an antagonist on the 5-HT1A receptor, causing the anti-emetic effects of CBD. However, CBD serves as an agonist to work against nausea through its affinity for the 5-HT1A receptor. Hence, this shows that both compounds perform the same function but in different ways.
- Hunger Simulation
The presence of CBG in the human body stimulates a person to consume more food than normal. Whereas, CBD causes no change in the appetite of anyone who consumes it. In fact, in some cases, the food intake is reduced in the users.
Benefits of CBG and CBD
All in all, the therapeutic benefits of CBD vs CBG are summed up as per below as below:
- Both compounds contain a non-psychoactive effect on the user. Be sure to check the legal vaping age in your country.
- CBD is used for treating chronic pain conditions, neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune conditions, and other psychiatric disorders.
- CBG is used for providing antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties to the user.
