The cannabis plant contains many natural compounds that can support wellness in different ways. Two major cannabinoids that can be obtained from the plant are CBG and CBD. Although they share the same origin, they work quite differently in your body.
Knowing the distinctions between CBG and CBD is important, especially for buyers looking to try out new cannabinoid products.
In this guide, we’ll explore what CBG and CBD are, how they differ, and what effects they have on the body. You’ll also learn how to choose between them and key factors to consider.
CBG vs CBD: Understanding Cannabinoid Basics
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, specifically Cannabis sativa, that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate functions like mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response. When cannabinoids bind to or influence the body’s endocannabinoid receptors, they can affect how you feel and function, leading to therapeutic benefits.
There are 100+ known cannabinoids, with CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) being the most recognized. Others, such as CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol), are gaining attention for their unique properties and potential health benefits.
Each cannabinoid works slightly differently, so one compound might work better for you than another. Understanding their differences will help you make more informed choices about which cannabinoids support your wellness goals.
What Is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating, meaning that it doesn't cause a “high.” CBD doesn't bind strongly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it works indirectly by blocking enzymes that break down the body's own endocannabinoids, leading to various positive effects, like relaxation, relief from stress, and better sleep.
Since CBD doesn't intoxicate, people can enjoy its benefits and still maintain normal daily function. For example, you could take it before heading to work to help with stress and anxiety or at the end of the day for improved relaxation and deeper sleep.
What Is CBG?
CBG (cannabigerol) is sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid.” This is because many other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, are created from it. Like CBD, CBG doesn't produce intoxicating effects even though it binds more directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
CBG exists in smaller amounts than CBD. Most cannabis strains contain only about 1% CBG, while CBD makes up 20% to 25% of the plant. This makes CBG products harder to make and more expensive than CBD. Interestingly, many people consider it a minor cannabinoid because of its low availability.
Various studies suggest that CBG offers benefits like anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotection, antioxidant effects, and relief from anxiety and stress.
CBG vs CBD: 3 Key Differences
While both CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, their effects and mechanisms of action in the body differ in the following ways:
1. Concentration
One of the clearest differences between CBG and CBD is the amount of each compound that exists in the plant. You can extract much higher levels of CBD than CBG. Since CBG is available in smaller quantities, it's harder to make CBG-rich oils, gummies, or drinks.
2. Receptor interaction
CBG and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system differently. CBG binds more directly to CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, while CBD doesn't. CBG also engages other receptor pathways, such as TRPV channels and PPAR receptors, creating more pronounced, immediate effects. CBD affects enzymes and transport proteins, creating gentler, longer-lasting effects that build up over time with consistent use.
3. Availability and cost
CBD is widely available. It's a staple in the wellness market, costs less than CBG, and it's easily accessible. On the other hand, CBG is rarer, harder to find, and costs more because of its low concentration in hemp plants.
More brands are creating CBG-based products in response to customer demand. Because of this, the global CBG market is set to reach USD 1.752 billion by 2031, growing at a 14.2% CAGR.
CBG, CBD, and The Entourage Effect
The term "entourage effect" describes what happens when two or more cannabinoids are combined. Many use this combined approach to strengthen the effects they would get from just one cannabinoid.
Studies suggest that extracts with multiple cannabinoids, including CBG, CBD, and terpenes, can be more effective than those with only one compound.
More research is required in this area, but companies are already investing in and creating full-spectrum products to cater to customers who want stronger effects.
Potential Benefits of CBG and CBD
Cannabinoid research on the potential health benefits and therapeutic potential of these two cannabinoids is ongoing, and in some cases, their benefits overlap:
6 Potential advantages of CBG
- Enhances focus and mental clarity
- Supports energy levels throughout the day
- Improves gut health and reduces intestinal discomfort
- Provides discomfort relief without sedation
- Offers neuroprotective properties that boost brain health
- Demonstrates antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects like CBD
5 Potential benefits of CBD
- Provides relief from chronic pain or discomfort
- Improves sleep quality
- Supports relaxation and stress management
- May help manage symptoms of anxiety disorders
- Supports recovery after physical activity
How To Choose Between CBG and CBD
Here are practical tips to help guide your decision between CBG and CBD:
-
Define your goals: Think about what you want to get from the cannabinoid. If your main goal is relaxation, stress relief, or better sleep, CBD is usually the better choice. If you want more focus, mental clarity, or support for gut health, skin health, and inflammatory conditions, CBG may be a better fit.
-
Consider availability and cost: CBD is cheaper and easier to find in different forms like oils, gummies, drinks, etc. CBG is less common and more expensive because there’s less of it in the plant.
-
Check quality and purity: Look for products that have third-party lab testing. This helps confirm the product is accurate in potency, free of contaminants, and within the THC limit.
-
Choose a format that fits your routine and goals: Depending on your routine, you may prefer different forms. 1906 offers multiple options, including Drops, Gummies, and Drinks.
-
Start slow: Begin with a low dose and track how your body responds. Adjust your dosage or change the product as needed.
Explore a range of trusted options in 1906’s Shop All collection to find the one that works best for you. The Bliss Collection, for example, features special formulations designed for calmness and connection.
Are There Any Side Effects of CBG and CBD?
Both CBG and CBD are generally well-tolerated, and most people do not experience side effects. Having said that, the following side effects could occur in rare cases:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Digestive upset
- Potential interactions with certain medications
Both cannabinoids can interact with other compounds and medications, especially those with a grapefruit warning, affecting how these drugs are metabolized. If you have specific health concerns or take other medications, consult with a healthcare provider before adding cannabinoids to your routine.
Conclusion
Both CBG and CBD play a role in how the body responds to stress, focus, and overall balance, among other things. While there are similarities between them, they interact differently in the body. CBG is often associated with focus and alertness, while CBD is more commonly used for relaxation and calmness.
Choosing between them depends on what you want to achieve and how your body responds to each compound. Many people also find benefits in combining CBG and CBD together. As cannabis research continues to expand, CBG and CBD are likely to become even more important in wellness routines.
FAQs
What is the main difference between CBD and CBG?
The core difference is how they interact with the body’s receptors. CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors while CBD works more indirectly.
Is CBG an upper or a downer?
CBG is generally more stimulating and energizing than sedating. However, people's responses can vary based on the dosage and the type of product.
What is the best way to use CBG or CBD products?
It depends on your goals and preferences. Oils and tinctures are absorbed faster, while gummies and edibles provide longer-lasting effects. Drinks are a great option for social settings.
What is the legal status of CBD and CBG?
Unlike THC, which is considered a controlled substance at the federal level and is illegal if it contains more than 0.3% THC, hemp-derived CBD and CBG are generally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.
This means products with these cannabinoids are allowed as long as the THC content stays below 0.3% by dry weight. However, state laws differ. So, before you buy cannabinoid products, check your state's legislation.