What is CBG?

Commonly referred to as “the mother cannabinoid”, CBG is the precursor to CBD and THC. Between 6-8 weeks in the flowering cycle of cannabis, an enzymatic reaction occurs that converts CBG to THC, CBD, or other minor cannabinoids like CBC.

The effects of CBG on the body are very similar to CBD, with a few subtle differences. Both cannabinoids are calming and soothing, though CBG delivers a bit more of a buzzy, focused sensation; great for studying, creative projects, or lowering brain noise in preparation for a restful night’s sleep.

Although CBG naturally occurs in very small quantities, recent advances in cannabis science have made it possible to extract CBG in large quantities. Breeders developed high yield CBG hemp plants, and extractors have found the optimal time to harvest CBG from hemp before it converts to another cannabinoid like CBD or THC.

Medical research on CBG:

Endocannabinoid receptors are abundant in our eyes, and interestingly, CBG is thought to be particularly effective in treating glaucoma because it reduces intraocular pressure. It is a powerful vasodilator and has neuroprotective effects to boot. (Source)
CBG was found to be effective in decreasing the inflammation characteristic of inflammatory bowel disease. (Source)
In a 2015 study, CBG was shown to protect neurons in the brain from degeneration caused by Huntingston’s disease. (Source)
CBG is showing great promise as a cancer fighter. In a recent study, CBG was shown to block receptors that cause cancer cell growth. (Source)
European research shows evidence that CBG is an effective antibacterial agent, particularly against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) microbial strains resistant to several classes of drugs. (Source)
In a 2017 study, researchers showed CBG was a very effective appetite stimulant. (Source)

New cannabinoids = new opportunities

CBG opens up even more opportunities for cannabis lovers to explore the potential of hemp. CBG is a much more unique cultivar compared to CBD, allowing for an enhanced consumption experience. When consumed as a pre-roll or smokeable flower, this uniqueness is most obvious. CBG has a much more robust flavor profile, making it the perfect option for a no-high, paranoia-free smoking experience.

Like any naisant industry, brands may use marketing keywords inaccurately. This causes confusion and we feel that it hurts the industry as a whole. That’s why we developed our Dazey Dictionary; a place to find all the cannabis keywords you may be curious about.

Want to learn more about CBD? Head over to our blog.

March 15 2021

Are CBD and Hemp Oil the Same?

Education

The simple answer is no, they are not the same. CBD or hemp extract is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Hemp oil or hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of hemp, similar to sunflower, canola, and sesame oil that you’d find in the grocery store.

Seed oil is extracted from the seed of a plant, while CBD is extracted from the whole hemp plant, including flowers, leaves, and stems.

Although hemp oil has its own health benefits, it is not the same as CBD or hemp extract. So how do you know if you’re shopping for a proper CBD product? Here are a few ways to be certain:

Research the brand. This includes looking for trustworthy reviews and product COAs (Certificate of Analysis). Reputable companies will have this information readily available on their website. COAs confirm exactly how much CBD and other cannabinoids are present in the product.
Check the ingredients. Reading a product’s label will give you a ton of insight. This is where you will find the distinctive ingredient you’re looking for: hemp seed (hemp seed oil) or CBD (hemp extract).
If you’re shopping on Amazon, then it’s hemp seed oil. Amazon does not currently allow CBD to be sold on its platform.
Most CBD is sold in quantities of 300mg (~$50) to 2,000mg (~$200) at most. If the product you’re looking at is much cheaper than those average prices, or the quantities in mg (milligram) are much higher, then it’s hemp oil.