Difference between CBD and CBG

Just when you learned the three incredible letters, CBD, the acronym for cannabidiol and the key to the transformation in so many lives, the specialized suppliers began to get excited with another succession of letters, CBG, an abbreviation for cannabigerol.

So, what is the difference between CBD and CBG? Well, the answer might shock you. CBD and CBG, both non-toxic cannabinoids, have slight but interesting variations that set them apart.

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In this article, we look at the unique benefits of CBG and CBD.

What is CBD?

Well, CBD comes from this sweetie, hemp, and is the second most abundant active ingredient in cannabis, primarily responsible for the therapeutic properties attributed to the plant.

It has no psychoactive properties: CBD does not give you a high. It is an entirely safe substance with no threat of addiction.

Furthermore, you should note that cannabis with a high CBD content cannot replace THC for those mainly looking for the substance's psychoactive effects. 

The suitable properties are only obtained at high doses of CBD, and even then, without going as far as a soothing effect equal to 100%. In different words, CBD cannot serve as an alternative for heavy stoners of high-THC cannabis.

Scientific study into CBD has only just started, but the possibility of its great potential is irresistible. There are primary studies linking it to therapeutic properties.

How is CBD consumed?

There are several ways to consume CBD, but the most effective is through natural routes – as CBD is considered a dietary supplement. So what are the most popular methods?

In oil form: This is absorbed using a dropper. Add a little to food or drink, or place the pipette under the tongue for a faster effect.

It can be in the form of a paste, taken with food or alone.

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In pill form, usually gelatin, each contains a fixed dose of CBD paste. Like a medicine, the capsule dissolves in the stomach. This dosage is not optimal in case of intestinal permeability: the effects of CBD will not be felt.

In the form of chewing gum, it is a method appreciated because it is both simple and practical. CBD paste is mixed with typical ingredients for a very cautious dosage.

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In the form of illiquid: It is utilised in an electronic cigarette. Engulfed by the lungs, CBD moves very quickly into the blood (more rapidly than in ingestion).

It can be In the form of cosmetic products on the skin. CBD is primarily used to treat localised ailments (joint pain, acne, skin diseases, etc.) in addition to traditional products.

What is CBG, and how it works

Like CBD, CBG has no psychoactive results and has encouraging therapeutic potency. Cannabigerol (CBG), one of more than 120 cannabinoids discovered in cannabis, was first isolated in 1964. 

Although investigations into this substance are still in their infancy, recent studies suggest that its narcotic properties may surpass those of THC without psychoactive effects.

How can CBD be produced?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is the first cannabinoid produced from hemp. Certain enzymes react with plant acids when the specimen is still moulting to create CBGA. 

Subsequently, decarboxylation (application of heat) transforms the CBGA into CBG. At this stage, dozens of other cannabinoids start to take shape.

Without detailed explanations of chemical structures and reactions, we can state that without CBGA (and therefore CBG), other cannabinoids, such as CBD, would not exist. 

The conversion of plant acids to CBGA starts a chemical chain reaction, leading to over 100 cannabinoids discovered so far.

This is also why, after CBD, CBG is the cheapest cannabinoid (although it still costs 4 times more than CBD), while the other minor cannabinoid isolates CBN, CBC costs even more. 

This is because there is genetics with 10% CBG, while CBN/CBC does not exceed 0.5% and is never the prominent cannabinoid.

Furthermore, CBG can be taken similarly to CBD as it is also available in the market as an oil.

Differences between CBD and CBG

Although both combinations are non-intoxicating cannabinoids existing in the cannabis plant, CBG and CBD differ in the following ways:

Molecular structure: CBG and CBD have different molecular structures, which refer to the number and arrangement of oxygen, carbon and hydrogen atoms that make up a cannabinoid.

Appetite Stimulation: As mentioned earlier, appetite stimulation is another exciting way CBG differs from CBD.

Can you combine CBD and CBG?

It has been found that when you combine CBD and CBG, they reinforce each other's effect.

With the interaction between CBD and CBG, results can be obtained that the 2 cannabinoids independently will not accomplish. The better the CBD/CBG dosage percentage, the more productive this mixture is.

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Researchers suggest that combined consumption of cannabinoids may have multiple health benefits compared to ingesting a single substance. This outcome is called the 'entourage effect'.

Conclusion

Most of the time, it is recognised that CBG is more effective for all things related to neurological and mental distress, such as depression. At the same time, CBD is more indicated for signs of bodily pain. 

However, remember that we are all different, which is why some people respond better to CBG while others have better results with CBD. 

Therefore, taking them in synergy is one of the best ways to take full advantage of both and know what suits you best.