Did you know that cannabinoids like CBD and THC, which dominate the wellness industry, make up only part of the cannabis story? Recent reports suggest there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in the plant, yet most people are only familiar with two or three. That raises a question: what about the others—are we missing out on something valuable?
One of the lesser-known but increasingly researched compounds is CBG (Cannabigerol). Often called the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG is the chemical starting point from which many other cannabinoids are formed. Unlike THC, it doesn’t cause a high, but early research suggests it could play a role in gut health, eye health, and even brain protection.
In this article, we’ll break down what CBG is, why it matters, how it compares to CBD, and the potential benefits researchers are uncovering. We’ll also answer some common questions about its uses and availability. If you’ve ever wondered whether CBG could be the next big addition to your wellness toolkit, keep reading.
What Makes CBG the “Mother Cannabinoid”?
CBG is called the “mother cannabinoid” because it is the starting point for many others. In young cannabis plants, its acidic form – CBGA (Cannabigerolic acid)—is the base compound that enzymes convert into THC, CBD, and CBC. Without CBGA, these well-known cannabinoids would not exist, making CBG the foundation of the plant’s therapeutic potential.
As the plant matures, most of the CBGA is used up, leaving only tiny traces of CBG—often less than 1% in fully grown plants. This rarity makes CBG difficult to extract and one of the reasons it has only recently gained attention. In simple terms, it acts like a “stem cell” for cannabinoids: essential for creating others but scarce on its own.
Potential Benefits of CBG
Research on CBG is still developing, but early findings suggest it could hold unique therapeutic value. While most studies are preclinical and more human trials are needed, the results so far highlight several promising areas.
1. Digestive health
One of the most studied areas for CBG is gut health. Animal research indicates that it may reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it a potential candidate for managing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Borrelli et al., 2013, PubMed). This anti-inflammatory effect may also support general digestive comfort, though clinical evidence in humans is still limited.
2. Glaucoma
CBG has been observed to lower intraocular pressure in laboratory settings (Colasanti, 1984, PubMed). Elevated eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma, and unlike THC, CBG provides this benefit without psychoactive effects, which could make it more suitable for therapeutic use in vision health.
3. Brain protection
Early studies suggest that CBG may act as a neuroprotectant, helping to protect brain cells from degeneration. In a 2015 study, CBG was found to protect neurons in mouse models of Huntington’s disease (Valdeolivas et al., 2015, PubMed). While more work is needed, CBG’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system makes it a potential candidate for supporting long-term brain health.
4. Antibacterial action
CBG has also demonstrated antibacterial properties, particularly against drug-resistant strains like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) (Appendino et al., 2008, PubMed). This potential opens the door for exploring CBG in new treatments where traditional antibiotics are less effective.
Although the evidence is still in its early stages, these findings highlight why CBG is gaining attention in the medical and wellness communities. As research expands, it may become an important player in future therapies and holistic health solutions.
CBG vs. CBD
Cannabis plants contain over 100 cannabinoids, but CBG (cannabigerol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are among the most discussed. While CBD has gained mainstream attention for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and wellness benefits, CBG is only now starting to catch the spotlight. Both are non-psychoactive, meaning they don’t cause a “high,” but their roles in the body are not identical.
Key Differences Between CBG and CBD:
- Origin: CBG is considered the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the precursor from which CBD, THC, and others are formed during the plant’s growth PubMed, 2021. CBD, on the other hand, is a direct cannabinoid produced later in the plant’s life cycle.
- Receptor interaction: CBG binds directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, giving it a more direct effect on mood, pain, and inflammation NIH, 2020. CBD influences these receptors indirectly, often modulating how the body responds rather than binding directly PMC, 2019.
- Potential benefits: Early studies suggest CBG may be especially effective for gut inflammation, glaucoma, and bacterial resistance (including MRSA) PMC, 2013. CBD, meanwhile, is better studied for anxiety, seizure control, sleep regulation, and chronic pain PMC, 2018.
- Availability: CBD is abundant in most hemp strains, making it widely accessible in oils, edibles, and topicals. CBG is naturally present in much smaller amounts, which makes it harder (and often more expensive) to extract PubMed, 2020.
In summary: While CBD has built a reputation as a go-to cannabinoid for everyday wellness, CBG may bring unique advantages that set it apart, especially in areas like gut health and neuroprotection. Both can complement each other, and many products now combine them for a broader range of support.
In the next section, we’ll look at how people actually use CBG in daily life.
How People Use CBG?
CBG is still relatively new to the wellness market, but it’s becoming increasingly available in a few accessible forms.
1. Oils and tinctures (taken sublingually): One of the most common ways to use CBG, oils are placed under the tongue for quick absorption into the bloodstream. This method allows users to feel effects faster compared to digestion-based methods.
2. Capsules and softgels: These offer a precise, pre-measured dose of CBG, making them ideal for people who want consistency and convenience in their routine.
3. Wellness blends (often combined with CBD or other cannabinoids): Since CBG is rare and expensive to isolate, many products include it in blends with CBD, terpenes, or other cannabinoids. This approach supports the “entourage effect,” where compounds may work together for broader benefits.
4. Topicals and skincare: CBG is also being added to creams, balms, and serums for localized use. Its potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects make it a promising ingredient for skin health.
Note: Typical dosing: Research on CBG dosing is still limited, but most wellness products range between 5–30 mg per serving. As with CBD, people are advised to start with a low dose and gradually increase based on personal response. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended, especially for those with medical conditions or who are taking other medications.
Because CBG is scarce, standalone products are less common, but demand is steadily growing.
Conclusion
CBG may not be as well-known as CBD or THC, but its unique role as the “mother cannabinoid” makes it one of the most exciting compounds in cannabis research. From supporting gut health and lowering eye pressure to showing promise in brain protection and antibacterial activity, early studies suggest that CBG could have a wide range of applications. While much of the evidence is still emerging, interest in this cannabinoid is growing quickly among researchers, wellness brands, and consumers alike.
As more studies unfold, CBG could become a key player in future therapies and wellness products. For now, people are exploring it through oils, capsules, blends, and even topicals – often alongside CBD for a broader effect. If you’re curious about cannabinoids beyond the usual names, CBG is certainly one to watch.
The world of cannabis science is just beginning to unlock the potential of rare cannabinoids like CBG. Staying informed and consulting professionals before use is the best way to make smart choices as this field continues to expand.
FAQs About CBG (Cannabigerol)
Q1. Why is CBG called the “mother cannabinoid”?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid” because it serves as the precursor from which other major cannabinoids, including CBD, THC, and CBC, are synthesized during the cannabis plant’s growth. Without CBG, these other compounds wouldn’t exist, making it the foundation of the plant’s therapeutic potential.
Q2. Does CBG make you feel high?
No, CBG does not make you feel high. Unlike THC, which is psychoactive and causes euphoric effects, CBG is completely non-intoxicating. This means it can deliver potential health benefits without altering your mental clarity or mood, making it an attractive option for those seeking relief without experiencing a “high.”
Q3. What are the potential benefits of CBG?
Research on CBG is still in its early stages, but findings suggest it may support gut health by reducing inflammation, help manage glaucoma by lowering intraocular pressure, and act as a neuroprotectant for brain health. Additionally, CBG has demonstrated antibacterial properties, showing promise against resistant bacteria like MRSA, making it a highly versatile compound.
Q4. How is CBG different from CBD?
While both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, they differ in their roles and potential uses. CBG is considered the “parent” molecule from which CBD is derived. CBD is often associated with stress relief, sleep support, and anti-seizure properties, whereas CBG may be more effective for gut, eye, and neuroprotective health applications.
Q5. How can you take CBG?
CBG can be consumed in several forms, depending on your preference and wellness goals. The most common options include oils and tinctures that allow flexible dosing, capsules for convenience, and edibles for ease of use. It’s also available in combination with CBD or other cannabinoids to enhance overall therapeutic effects through the entourage effect.
