“The Science Behind CBG: The Mother Cannabinoid Explained”

 

Table of Contents:

1. What Is CBG?
2. How CBG Differs from CBD and THC
3. The Biosynthesis of CBG: How It’s Made in the Plant
4. How CBG Works in the Body: The Endocannabinoid System
5. Potential Health Benefits of CBG
6. CBG vs. CBD: Which One Should You Choose?
7. How to Use CBG: Oils, Flower, and Isolates
8. The Future of CBG Research
9. Where to Buy High-Quality CBG Products
10. Conclusion

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.       What Is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids," CBG serves as a precursor to other well-known cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While CBD and THC have dominated the European cannabis market, CBG is now gaining attention for its potential therapeutic benefits.

✅What Is CBG?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBG does not produce a "high," making it an attractive option for those seeking therapeutic benefits without intoxication.

How CBG Is Formed

CBG starts as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the acidic form of CBG. As the cannabis plant matures, enzymes convert CBGA into other cannabinoid precursors:

• THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) → Becomes THC
• CBDA (Cannabidiolic acid) → Becomes CBD
• CBCA (Cannabichromenic acid) → Becomes CBC

Because most CBGA is converted into other cannabinoids, CBG is typically found in very low concentrations (usually less than 1%) in mature cannabis plants. However, selective breeding and advanced extraction techniques now allow for higher CBG yields.

✅CBG vs. CBD vs. THC: Key Differences

Cannabinoid	Psychoactive?	Primary Effects	Legal Status in Europe
CBG	No	Anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antibacterial	Legal if derived from hemp (<0.2% THC)
CBD	No	Relaxation, pain relief, anti-anxiety	Legal if derived from hemp (<0.2% THC)
THC	Yes	Euphoria, pain relief, appetite stimulation	Illegal in most EU countries (except medical use)

CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which regulate pain, inflammation, mood, and immune response.

2.       How CBG Differs from CBD and THC

✅Chemical Structure: How CBG, CBD, and THC Differ

CBG: The "Mother Cannabinoid"

CBG is the precursor to CBD and THC. In young cannabis plants, most cannabinoids start as CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), which later converts into:

• THCA → THC (psychoactive)
• CBDA → CBD (non-psychoactive)
• CBCA → CBC (anti-inflammatory)

Because of this conversion, CBG levels are usually below 1% in mature plants. However, selective breeding now allows for high-CBG hemp strains.

CBD: The Non-Psychoactive Wellness Compound

CBD does not produce a high and is widely used for:

• Anxiety relief
• Pain management
• Anti-inflammatory effects

THC: The Psychoactive Compound

THC binds strongly to CB1 receptors, causing euphoria, appetite stimulation, and pain relief but is restricted in most of Europe.

Key Differences in Molecular Effects

Property	CBG	CBD	THC
Psychoactive?	No	No	Yes
Binds to CB1?	Weakly	No	Strongly
Binds to CB2?	Yes	Indirectly	Yes
Legal in EU?	Yes*	Yes*	No**

(*If derived from hemp with <0.2% THC; **Except for medical/recreational use in some countries)

✅How CBG, CBD, and THC Interact with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates:

• Pain
• Mood
• Appetite
• Immune response

CBG’s Unique Interaction

• Binds to both CB1 & CB2 receptors, but differently than THC.
• May enhance anandamide (the "bliss molecule") by blocking its breakdown (Russo et al., 2011).
• Shows antibacterial & neuroprotective effects.

CBD’s Indirect Effects

• Does not bind directly to CB1/CB2 but modulates serotonin and vanilloid receptors.
• May reduce THC’s psychoactivity by blocking CB1 activation.

THC’s Strong CB1 Activation

• Causes euphoria, increased appetite, and pain relief.
• Can lead to anxiety or paranoia in high doses.

3.       The Biosynthesis of CBG: How It’s Made in the Plant

✅The Biochemical Pathway: How Cannabis Produces CBG

Step 1: From Glucose to Olivetolic Acid (OA)

Cannabis plants synthesize CBG through a multi-step enzymatic process:

1)      Photosynthesis → Produces glucose, the building block for cannabinoids.

2)      Methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway → Converts glucose into geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP).

3)      Polyketide synthase (PKS) → Combines GPP with olivetolic acid (OA).

Step 2: Formation of CBGA (The Acidic Form of CBG)

• The enzyme CBGAS (cannabigerolic acid synthase) catalyzes the reaction between GPP + OA, creating CBGA.
• CBGA is the direct precursor to THCA, CBDA, and CBCA.

Step 3: Conversion into Other Cannabinoids

As the plant matures, specific enzymes convert CBGA into:

Enzyme	Converts CBGA Into	Resulting Cannabinoid
THCAS (THCA synthase)	THCA → THC	Psychoactive
CBDAS (CBDA synthase)	CBDA → CBD	Non-psychoactive
CBCAS (CBCA synthase)	CBCA → CBC	Anti-inflammatory

Because most CBGA is converted, mature cannabis plants typically contain <1% CBG.

✅How Do We Get High-CBG Strains?

Genetic Selection & Breeding

• Early Harvesting → Cutting plants before CBGA converts to other cannabinoids.
• Gene Editing → Using CRISPR to silence THCAS/CBDAS enzymes, preserving CBGA.
• Cross-Breeding → Selecting hemp strains with natural CBG dominance (e.g., White CBG, Jack Frost CBG).

European CBG Strains (2025 Update)

Several EU-certified hemp strains are now optimized for CBG:

• CBG White (up to 15% CBG)
• CBG Force (high yield, low THC)
• Stem Cell CBG (rare, high-terpene profile)

For premium EU-grown CBG flower, visit Hempire Gardens.

✅Extraction Methods for Maximum CBG Purity

1) Supercritical CO2 Extraction

• Best for full-spectrum CBG oil
• Preserves terpenes & minor cannabinoids

2) Ethanol Extraction

• Faster & cheaper but may degrade heat-sensitive compounds

3) Chromatography Isolation

• Used for 99% pure CBG isolate (rare in Europe due to cost)

✅Why European Hemp Is Ideal for CBG Production

EU Regulations Favor CBG Cultivation

• THC limit <0.2% (0.3% in some countries) → Encourages low-THC, high-CBG strains.
• Organic certification → Strict pesticide controls ensure clean extracts.

Climate Advantages

• Netherlands, Spain, France → Ideal for high-CBG hemp due to moderate climates.

✅ The Future of CBG Biosynthesis in Europe

1) Synthetic Biology

• Companies like Hyasynth Bio are engineering yeast to produce CBG.

2) EU Research Initiatives

• Horizon Europe funds studies on CBG’s medical potential.

3) Rising Demand for Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids

• CBG is gaining traction in wellness, cosmetics, and pet products.

4.       How CBG Works in the Body: The Endocannabinoid System

✅The Endocannabinoid System (ECS): A Master Regulator

What Is the ECS?

Discovered in the 1990s, the ECS is a biological signaling system present in all vertebrates. It consists of three core components:

1)      Endocannabinoids (e.g., anandamide & 2-AG) – Naturally occurring lipid-based neurotransmitters.

2)      Receptors (CB1 & CB2) – Found throughout the body.

3)      Enzymes (FAAH & MAGL) – Break down endocannabinoids after use.

Key Functions of the ECS

• Pain perception
• Immune response
• Mood & stress regulation
• Appetite & metabolism
• Neuroprotection

When the ECS is imbalanced (deficiency or overactivity), it may contribute to conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and autoimmune disorders (Pacher & Kunos, 2013).

✅How CBG Interacts with the ECS

Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychoactive but still influences the ECS in unique ways.

CBG’s Effects on CB1 & CB2 Receptors

• Weak CB1 binding → Unlike THC, it doesn’t cause a "high."
• Stronger CB2 affinity → May help reduce inflammation & immune responses (Navarro et al., 2018).

CBG as an Anandamide Booster

• Inhibits FAAH enzyme → Slows breakdown of anandamide, the "bliss molecule" (Russo et al., 2011).
• May enhance mood & pain relief naturally.

Other Key Mechanisms

• TRPV1 Activation → Helps with pain & inflammation (similar to CBD).
• 5-HT1A Serotonin Modulation → Potential anti-anxiety & antidepressant effects.

✅How to Use CBG for Optimal ECS Support

Best Consumption Methods

• Sublingual Oils → Fast absorption into the bloodstream.
• CBG Capsules → Long-lasting systemic effects.
• CBG Flower (Vaped/Smoked) → Quickest onset.

Dosing Recommendations

• Beginner: 5-10 mg/day
• Intermediate: 15-30 mg/day
• Therapeutic: 50+ mg/day (consult a doctor)

For premium CBG oils & isolates, visit Hempire Gardens.

✅The Future of CBG in Europe (2025 Outlook)

• Rising Demand → More CBG-dominant strains being cultivated.
• Medical Research → EU-funded studies on CBG for neurodegenerative diseases.
• Wellness Products → CBG-infused cosmetics, edibles, and pet supplements.

5.       Potential Health Benefits of CBG

✅Neuroprotective Properties: Guarding the Brain

How CBG Protects Neurons

CBG has shown promise in protecting brain cells from damage and degeneration. Studies suggest it may help with:

• Huntington’s Disease – A 2015 study found that CBG delayed disease progression in mice by acting as a neuroprotectant.
• Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s – CBG’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may help reduce oxidative stress in the brain.

Mechanisms of Action

• Reduces glutamate toxicity (a factor in neurodegenerative diseases).
• Stimulates brain cell growth via neurogenesis.

✅Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A Natural Pain Reliever

CBG and Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to conditions like arthritis, IBS, and autoimmune disorders. Research indicates CBG may help by:

• Reducing inflammatory markers (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6) (Borrelli et al., 2013).
• Alleviating colitis in animal models, suggesting potential for IBD treatment.

How It Compares to CBD

While CBD is well-known for inflammation, CBG may offer additional benefits due to its direct CB2 receptor activation.

✅Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity: Fighting Superbugs

CBG vs. MRSA and Other Resistant Bacteria

A groundbreaking 2008 study found that CBG effectively kills MRSA, a drug-resistant staph infection (Appendino et al., 2008).

Potential for Skin and Gut Health

• Topical CBG creams could help with bacterial/fungal skin infections.
• May support gut microbiome balance.

✅Appetite Stimulation: A Non-Psychoactive Alternative to THC

CBG and Cachexia (Wasting Syndrome)

Unlike CBD (which suppresses appetite), CBG may stimulate hunger, making it useful for:

• Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

How It Works

• Activates CB1 receptors (but without THC’s psychoactivity).
• Enhances ghrelin, the "hunger hormone."

✅Glaucoma Relief: Reducing Intraocular Pressure

CBG and Eye Health

Glaucoma is caused by high intraocular pressure (IOP), damaging the optic nerve. Studies suggest CBG may:

• Lower IOP by improving aqueous humor drainage.
• Protect retinal neurons from oxidative stress.

Future of CBG in Ophthalmology

While THC has been studied for glaucoma, CBG offers similar benefits without the high.

✅Potential Anti-Cancer Effects: Early but Promising Research

CBG and Colon Cancer

A 2014 study found that CBG inhibited colorectal cancer growth in mice (Borrelli et al., 2014).

Mechanisms Being Studied

• Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
• Blocks tumor angiogenesis (stops blood supply to tumors).

Note: More human trials are needed, but early results are encouraging.

6.       CBG vs. CBD: Which One Should You Choose?

✅CBG vs. CBD: The Core Differences

Chemical Structure & Biosynthesis

• CBG is the precursor to CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.
• CBD is derived from CBDA, which comes from CBGA (the acidic form of CBG).
• Most CBG converts into other cannabinoids, making it rare (<1%) in mature plants.

Psychoactivity & Legality in Europe

• Neither CBG nor CBD is psychoactive (unlike THC).
• Both are legal in the EU if derived from hemp (<0.2% THC).

Receptor Binding (ECS Interaction)

Cannabinoid	CB1 (Brain/CNS)	CB2 (Immune/Gut)	Other Key Actions
CBG	Weak binding	Strong binding	Boosts anandamide, TRPV1 activation
CBD	No direct binding	Indirect modulation	Serotonin (5-HT1A), TRPV1 activation

Key Takeaway:

• CBG directly engages CB2 receptors (anti-inflammatory effects).
• CBD works indirectly via serotonin and vanilloid receptors.

✅Health Benefits Compared

Where CBG Excels

✅ Neuroprotection – May help with Huntington’s & Parkinson’s.
✅ Antibacterial – Fights MRSA (Appendino et al., 2008).
✅ Appetite Stimulation – Unlike CBD, may increase hunger.
✅ Glaucoma Relief – Reduces intraocular pressure .

Where CBD Shines

✅ Anxiety & Depression – Boosts serotonin receptors (Russo et al., 2005).
✅ Epilepsy – FDA-approved as Epidiolex for seizures.
✅ Chronic Pain & Inflammation – Modulates TRPV1 (pain pathways).

✅Which One Should You Choose?

Choose CBG If You Need:

• Neuroprotective support (e.g., neurodegenerative diseases).
• Antibacterial/antifungal properties.
• Appetite stimulation (e.g., cachexia, chemotherapy side effects).

Choose CBD If You Need:

• Anxiety or stress relief.
• Seizure management (e.g., epilepsy).
• General relaxation & pain relief.

Consider a CBG + CBD Blend For:

• Enhanced anti-inflammatory effects (synergistic "entourage effect").
• Balanced ECS support.

✅Where to Buy High-Quality CBG & CBD in Europe

What to Look For:

✔ Third-party lab reports (COAs).
✔ Organic, EU-grown hemp.
✔ Full/broad-spectrum options (for entourage effect).

Why Choose Hempire Gardens?

• Lab-tested, THC-compliant products.
• Wide range of CBG/CBD ratios.
• Fast EU shipping.

Explore Hempire Gardens’ CBG & CBD collection.

7.       How to Use CBG: Oils, Flower, and Isolates

✅CBG Oil & Tinctures: The Most Popular Choice

What Is CBG Oil?

• A liquid extract infused with CBG-rich hemp extract (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate).
• Typically taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption.

Benefits of CBG Oil

✅ Fast-acting (effects in 15-30 minutes).
✅ Precise dosing (easy to measure with a dropper).
✅ Versatile (can be added to food or drinks).

How to Use CBG Oil

1)      Shake well before use.

2)      Place drops under the tongue (hold for 30-60 seconds before swallowing).

3)      Start low (5-10 mg) and gradually increase as needed.

✅CBG Flower: For Smoking & Vaping

What Is CBG Flower?

• Hemp buds bred for high CBG content (often 15-20% CBG).
• Contains terpenes and minor cannabinoids for the entourage effect.

Benefits of CBG Flower

✅ Fastest effects (inhaled cannabinoids enter the bloodstream immediately).
✅ Full-spectrum benefits (terpenes enhance CBG’s effects).
✅ Customizable experience (joints, vaporizers, or bongs).

How to Use CBG Flower

• Smoking (joints, pipes) – Fast but harsh on lungs.
• Dry herb vaping (healthier, preserves terpenes).
• Start with small doses (1-2 puffs) to gauge effects.

Looking for top-tier CBG flower? Try Hempire Gardens’ selection.

✅CBG Isolate: Pure Cannabigerol

What Is CBG Isolate?

• 99% pure CBG in powder or crystalline form.
• No THC, terpenes, or other cannabinoids (ideal for sensitive users).

Benefits of CBG Isolate

✅ No risk of THC exposure (fully compliant with EU laws).
✅ Highly customizable (mix into oils, foods, or topicals).
✅ Best for high-dose therapeutic use.

How to Use CBG Isolate

• Sublingual (dissolve under the tongue).
• Infused into MCT oil for DIY tinctures.
• Added to smoothies or coffee (fat-soluble, so pair with fats).

✅CBG Edibles & Capsules: Long-Lasting Effects

CBG Gummies & Softgels

• Pre-dosed for convenience.
• Effects last 4-6 hours (slower onset but prolonged relief).

Best Uses for CBG Edibles

• Chronic pain management
• All-day anxiety relief
• Sleep support

Tip: Start with 5-10 mg and wait 2 hours before redosing.

✅CBG Topicals: Targeted Relief

CBG Creams, Balms, & Salves

• Applied directly to skin (does not enter the bloodstream).
• Ideal for localized pain, eczema, or arthritis.

How to Use CBG Topicals

1)      Apply to clean, dry skin.

2)      Massage gently into the affected area.

3)      Reapply every 4-6 hours as needed.

✅Dosing Guide: How Much CBG Should You Take?

Experience Level	Dose (mg)	Best For
Beginner	5-10 mg	Mild relaxation, general wellness
Intermediate	15-30 mg	Pain relief, moderate anxiety
Advanced	50+ mg	Severe inflammation, neuroprotection

Note: Always consult a doctor before high-dose CBG use.

8.       The Future of CBG Research

✅The Current State of CBG Research

What We Know So Far

CBG has shown promise in preclinical studies for:
✅ Neuroprotection
✅ Antibacterial effects
✅ Anti-inflammatory properties

Limitations of Existing Research

• Most studies are preclinical (animal or cell-based).
• Few human clinical trials have been completed.
• Dosing protocols are still being refined.

✅The Role of Synthetic Biology

Yeast-Based CBG Production

• Companies like Hyasynth Bio are engineering yeast to produce CBG.
• Benefits:
• Higher purity
• No cannabis cultivation needed
• Scalable for pharmaceuticals

EU’s Position on Synthetic Cannabinoids

• Novel Food Regulation may soon include synthetically derived CBG.

✅CBG in Skincare & Cosmetics

2025 Market Trends

• Anti-Aging: CBG’s antioxidant properties may combat wrinkles.
• Acne Treatment: CBG’s anti-inflammatory & antibacterial effects could replace harsh chemicals.

Leading European Brands

Several EU companies are launching CBG-infused serums and creams in 2025.

✅The Legal Landscape in Europe

2025 Regulatory Updates

• THC Limits: Most EU countries maintain <0.2% THC for hemp-derived CBG.
• Medical CBG: Germany and the Netherlands may approve CBG prescriptions for specific conditions.

Challenges for Researchers

• Funding gaps for cannabinoid studies.
• Bureaucratic hurdles in clinical trial approvals.

✅How to Access CBG Today

Choosing Quality Products

✔ Third-party tested (look for COAs)
✔ Full-spectrum or isolate (depending on needs)
✔ EU-grown hemp (for compliance)

Why Hempire Gardens?

• Lab-verified CBG oils, flowers & isolates
• Transparent sourcing
• Fast EU shipping

Explore Hempire Gardens’ CBG collection.

9.       Where to Buy High-Quality CBG Products

1) Hempire Gardens (Premium CBG Flowers & Oils)

Why Choose Hempire Gardens?

• Organic, EU-grown hemp with full traceability
• Third-party lab tested for potency & purity
• Wide range of CBG products, including flowers, oils, and pre-rolls
• Excellent customer reviews and fast EU shipping

Hempire Gardens is a top choice for premium CBG flowers and oils in Europe. Their products are carefully cultivated and rigorously tested, making them a trusted source for CBG enthusiasts.

2) CBD Brothers (The Original Alternative)

• Offers Blue Edition CBG Oil, one of the first CBG products in Europe
• Uses whole-plant extraction for a full-spectrum effect
• Lab reports available on their website

3) Harmony (Sweden-Based Premium Brand)

• Specializes in organic, full-spectrum CBG oils
• CO₂ extracted and lab-tested
• Ships across Europe

4) Endoca (Pioneers in Hemp Extracts)

• High-quality CBG raw oil and capsules
• Rigorous lab testing and organic certification
• Strong reputation in the EU market

5) Cibdol (Swiss-Made CBG Products)

• Offers CBG oils and creams
• Transparent lab results
• Good for beginners due to clear dosing guidelines

✅Types of CBG Products Available in Europe

1) CBG Oil & Tinctures

• Easy to dose, sublingual absorption for fast effects
• Look for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum options

2) CBG Flowers

• Smokable or vaporizable hemp with high CBG content
• Popular for those who prefer a natural consumption method

3) CBG Capsules & Edibles

• Convenient for precise dosing
• Slower absorption but longer-lasting effects

4) CBG Topicals (Creams & Balms)

• Ideal for localized relief (e.g., muscle pain, skin conditions)

10.   Conclusion

Cannabigerol (CBG) is no longer just a minor cannabinoid—it’s emerging as a powerful compound with unique therapeutic potential. From its role as the "mother of all cannabinoids" to its promising effects on neuroprotection, inflammation, and bacterial resistance, CBG is carving out its place in the wellness and medical cannabis markets.

Key Takeaways

✅ CBG is non-psychoactive but offers distinct benefits – Unlike THC, it won’t get you high, but it may support brain health, reduce inflammation, and fight infections.
✅ It works differently than CBD – While CBD modulates serotonin and pain receptors indirectly, CBG directly interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, enhancing the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in unique ways.
✅ Early research is promising – Studies suggest CBG could help with neurodegenerative diseases, glaucoma, antibiotic-resistant infections, and even cancer.
✅ Multiple consumption methods available – Whether you prefer oils, flowers, isolates, or topicals, CBG can be tailored to your needs.
✅ Europe is a hub for high-quality CBG – Thanks to strict hemp regulations, EU-sourced CBG products (like those from Hempire Gardens) are among the purest and most reliable.

The Future of CBG in Europe

As research expands and cultivation techniques improve, CBG is poised to become a staple in:

• Medical cannabis (especially for neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions).
• Wellness products (anti-aging skincare, gut health supplements, and more).
• Pharmaceutical applications (particularly in fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria).

Final Recommendation

If you’re curious about CBG, start with a low dose (5-10 mg) and observe how your body responds. Look for third-party tested, EU-grown CBG from trusted suppliers to ensure safety and efficacy.

For premium CBG flowers, oils, and isolates, explore Hempire Gardens—a leading European brand committed to quality and transparency.

 

Here you can find cannabis products available in Europe.

 

   References:

1. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology.
2. Appendino, G. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa. Journal of Natural Products.
3. Borrelli, F. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology.
4. Pacher, P., & Kunos, G. (2013). Modulating the endocannabinoid system in human health and disease. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery.
5. Navarro, G. (2018). Cannabigerol action at cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors and at CB1-CB2 heteroreceptor complexes. Frontiers in Pharmacology.