The Serene Farms Guide to CBG: What It Is, How It’s Made, Benefits, and Safety

Cannabis plants are known for their rich array of cannabinoids, with THC and CBD often stealing the spotlight. However, a lesser-known but increasingly popular cannabinoid, CBG (cannabigerol), is gaining recognition for its unique properties. In this guide, we’ll delve into what CBG is, how it’s produced, how it can be consumed, its potential benefits, and its safety profile.

What Is CBG?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG plays a crucial role in the development of other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This is because CBG-A (the acidic form of CBG) is the precursor from which other cannabinoids are synthesized during the plant’s growth. As the plant matures, most of the CBG-A is converted into THC, CBD, or CBC, leaving only trace amounts of CBG in fully developed cannabis plants.

How Is CBG Produced?

CBG is typically found in very low concentrations in most cannabis strains, usually around 1% or less. This scarcity makes CBG extraction a more complex and costly process compared to more abundant cannabinoids like CBD.

Here are the key steps in producing CBG:

1. Cultivation of CBG-rich strains: Some breeders are developing cannabis strains specifically bred to contain higher levels of CBG. These strains are harvested earlier in the flowering cycle, before CBG is converted into other cannabinoids.
2. Extraction process: CBG is extracted using methods such as CO2 extraction or ethanol extraction. These methods isolate the cannabinoid from the plant material, producing a CBG-rich extract.
3. Purification: Once extracted, the CBG undergoes a purification process to remove unwanted plant materials, resulting in a concentrated CBG product that can be used in various forms. The most common forms of concentrates often come in the form of distillate (oil) and isolates (powder).

How Can CBG Be Consumed?

CBG can be consumed in many of the same ways as other cannabinoids. Some common methods include:

• Tinctures: CBG oil tinctures are popular because they allow for precise dosing. Tinctures are typically taken sublingually, meaning the oil is placed under the tongue for faster absorption into the bloodstream.
• Capsules: For those who prefer a more convenient method, CBG capsules offer a simple way to consume the cannabinoid without the taste or mess of tinctures.
• Edibles: CBG can be infused into various food products, such as gummies or chocolates. Edibles provide a longer-lasting effect, though they take longer to kick in due to the digestive process.
• Topicals: CBG can be incorporated into creams, balms, and lotions, which are applied directly to the skin. This method is commonly used for localized relief, such as soothing muscle aches or skin conditions.
• Vaping or smoking: Some CBG users prefer to vape or smoke cannabis flowers that are rich in CBG. This method offers rapid absorption, though it may not be ideal for everyone due to the potential lung irritation associated with smoking.

Potential Benefits of CBG

While research on CBG is still in its early stages, preliminary studies suggest that it may offer a range of therapeutic benefits. Some of the most promising areas of research include:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties: CBG has shown potential as an anti-inflammatory agent, which could make it helpful for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other chronic inflammation disorders.
2. Neuroprotective effects: Studies indicate that CBG may have neuroprotective properties, meaning it could help protect brain cells from damage. This has led to interest in CBG as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative conditions like Huntington’s disease.
3. Glaucoma treatment: CBG has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure, which could make it useful in the treatment of glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
4. Antibacterial properties: Early research suggests that CBG has strong antibacterial properties, particularly against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics.
5. Appetite stimulation: Unlike CBD, which may suppress appetite, CBG has been found to stimulate appetite, making it a potential treatment for conditions that cause appetite loss, such as cancer or HIV.

Is CBG Safe?

CBG is generally considered safe, but as with any supplement, it’s important to approach it with caution, especially since research is still in its infancy. While there are no known severe side effects associated with CBG, some users may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite.

It’s also essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or are taking other medications. Additionally, sourcing CBG from reputable manufacturers is key to ensuring you’re getting a safe, high-quality product, as the cannabis industry is not as tightly regulated as pharmaceuticals.

Final Thoughts

CBG is a fascinating cannabinoid that offers a variety of potential therapeutic benefits, from reducing inflammation to protecting brain health. As research on this “mother of all cannabinoids” continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll learn even more about its potential. For now, those interested in trying CBG should do so carefully, prioritizing high-quality products and consulting with healthcare providers to ensure safety.

With its potential to complement other cannabinoids like CBD and THC, CBG could be an important player in the future of cannabis-based therapies.

You can find CBG in two Serene Farms products – our Inflame-away Drops and in our Funky Beets CBG + Mushroom Gummies.