WHAT IS CBG? 

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. While not as well-known as THC and CBD, emerging scientific research has uncovered the potential for significant therapeutic CBG benefits. THC-free CBG, often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” serves as a precursor to other cannabinoids found naturally in the hemp plant. Its unique properties are now the focus of numerous preclinical and clinical studies, revealing a wide range of health and wellness benefits that reinforce its high versatility and value as a cannabinoid.

The Therapeutic Potential of CBG

CBG interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors that helps regulate various physiological processes, including mood, pain, appetite and immune function. Unlike THC, CBG does not produce intoxicating effects, making it an attractive option for health and wellness therapeutic use.

Potent Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

One of the most well-documented benefits of CBG is its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have demonstrated that CBG has the potential to reduce inflammation through multiple biological pathways, which may offer relief for various conditions.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Preclinical research suggests that CBG may help mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage associated with IBD. The findings suggest its ability to reduce inflammation in the colon, suggesting it could be a beneficial compound for managing this chronic condition.

• Atopic Dermatitis (AD): CBG has shown promise as a potential treatment for skin conditions like AD, with a study demonstrating an improvement in dermatitis scores, a reduction in epidermal thickness and down-regulation of key inflammatory pathways, such as JAK/STAT and NF-κB.

• Neuroinflammation: In vitro models of neuroinflammation suggest that CBG can be an effective agent against inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, indicating a potential role in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.

Neuroprotective Effects and Brain Health

The neuroprotective properties of CBG are of significant interest in CBG research. Its potential to protect nerve cells from damage and degeneration could offer new treatment options for complex neurological disorders.

• Huntington’s Disease (HD): In experimental models of Huntington’s disease, CBG demonstrated notable neuroprotective properties, suggesting it may help manage this debilitating genetic disorder.

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Research points to the therapeutic potential of CBG for multiple sclerosis. Its anti-inflammatory effects may help control the neuroinflammation that characterizes MS.

• Anxiety and Stress Reduction: A recent human clinical trial found that CBG reduced anxiety and stress without causing cognitive or motor impairments. The study also suggested a potential for memory enhancement, supporting mental well-being.

Skin Health and Protection

CBG’s benefits extend to dermatology, where its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties may contribute to skin health.

• UV Radiation Protection: Studies indicate CBG may offer protective and regenerative benefits for human skin cells exposed to UVA radiation, helping to heal skin after sun damage.

• Antibacterial Action: In vitro studies reveal that CBG possesses antimicrobial activity. Importantly, it can target harmful bacteria without disrupting the skin’s natural microbiota, making it a valuable ingredient for dermatological formulations.

CBG for Pain Management and Recovery

The analgesic effects of CBG may support pain management. Research indicates it can help alleviate different types of pain through its interaction with cannabinoid receptors and other cellular targets.

• Neuropathic Pain: An in vivo study showed CBG decrease mechanical hypersensitivity in chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. It achieves this by interacting with CB1, CB2 and α2-adrenoceptors, providing a multi-target approach to pain relief.

• Muscle Soreness: A pilot study on a CBG-based beverage powder found that it may help alleviate soreness associated with daily activities caused by delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise, supporting post-workout recovery.

Additional CBG Benefits

CBG research has uncovered several other promising applications, further validating CBG as a versatile therapeutic agent.

Antibacterial Capabilities

CBG has demonstrated significant antibacterial activity in studies, particularly against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These findings suggest that CBG-derived compounds could be developed into novel antibiotics with high therapeutic potential.

Anticancer Properties

Preclinical studies have uncovered the potential of CBG in oncology. It has been observed to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various cancer types.

• Colon Cancer: In vivo research found CBG inhibits the growth of colon cancer cells and slows the progression of colon carcinogenesis.

• Glioblastoma: Research indicates that CBG has cytotoxic effects on glioblastoma stem cells, reducing tumor growth and promoting apoptosis.

Appetite Stimulation

In a study on pre-satiated rats, CBG was identified as a novel and well-tolerated appetite stimulant. It was shown to reduce the latency to feed and increase the frequency of meals, suggesting potential applications for conditions involving appetite loss.