CBD and CBG might sound like fun new acronyms, but they’re actually two of the many chemical compounds found in cannabis plants. While both offer potential benefits, there are a few key differences between them.
CBD and CBG are both cannabinoids, meaning that they interact with body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for maintaining balance in the body, which we call homeostasis. CBD and CBG as such impact the ECS differently.
What is CBD?
You might have heard of CBD and wondered what the difference is between it and THC. Here’s what you need to know:
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the major component of many compounds found in cannabis plants. The compound contains a variety of therapeutic properties that are being studied for their potential in treating conditions such as anxiety and pain. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can cause psychoactive effects when consumed, CBD does not cause these effects.
CBD has been shown to produce many other health benefits outside its role as an antioxidant:
During in vitro and in vivo experiments on cells, rodents and mammals (mainly mice) it has been shown to reduce seizures in epilepsy; reduce inflammation; ease symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease; increase appetite; manage psoriasis symptoms like pain and redness; reduce muscle spasms for those with multiple sclerosis (MS); help with depression and anxiety disorders by reducing stress hormone levels—and much more! In fact, there are hundreds of studies showing how beneficial this non-psychoactive cannabinoid can be in treating or alleviating certain conditions in experimental settings.
What is clear, CBD under the trademark of Epidiolex what essentially is 10% CBD solution in sesame oil, is an FDA approved medicine for people with epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.
CBG vs. CBD. The Differences Between CBD and CBG.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid. This means that it does not produce the same “high” feeling as THC and other cannabinoids found in cannabis. CBD is legal in all 50 states and is considered safe to use by the FDA. As with most things, there are some caveats to consider here: while CBD itself has no psychoactive effects, some products (containing natural CBD isolates) can be mildly psychoactive at higher doses due to trace leftovers of THC; likewise, synthetic versions of CBD may contain minor amounts of THC as well (legally, THC content should be less than 0.3%).
Cannabigerol (CBG) is another type of cannabinoid found in both hemp and marijuana plants but does not have any psychoactive properties—it’s currently under intense research as previously CBG was under-researched and the renowned interest in cannabinoids has shown that it’s not yet fully known what the possible therapeutic or other potential could be associated with this compound. Recent research on mice provides some interesting evidence that CBG can diminish obesity levels in these test subjects.