As if CBD and THC weren’t enough to keep up with, there’s a new cannabinoid you need to know about on the block. That’s CBG or cannabigerol. The lesser-known and less abundant cannabinoid is being further researched for a number of effects that provide health benefits.
In fact, CBD + CBG oil is being manufactured even more than ever, and many are seeking out cannabis strains that are high in the elusive cannabinoid. So, why is CBG trending to be the next CBD? Let’s explore everything you need to know about the latest acronym to hit the weed industry, and the top 3 strains that contain the rare compound.
What is CBG?
CBG is short for cannabigerol, just one of nearly 400 cannabinoids found in cannabis. The cannabinoid, like CBD and THC has its own unique effects depending on how it reacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system internally. Unlike CBD and THC, CBG is found prevalent in the early stages of growth or maturity in the cannabis plant.
This explains why the cannabinoid is found in fewer quantities overall. CBG is often called the ‘mother cannabinoid’ since it transforms into others when the plant matures. Overtime, CBG alters into CBD, CBGA, THCA and others.
This could be why certain strains or live resins have higher levels of CBG, if they’re harvested early, dried and cured less, etc. But we’re also learning that some strains just genetically have higher levels than normal.
Regardless of the quantity or percentage, CBG has a few effects that are unique to the cannabinoid but also similar to CBD and THC. We know that most cannabinoids effects are felt through the activation or interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors. While CBD and THC don’t directly bind to these receptors, CBG can. Many experts are attributing this direct influence to why CBG is so beneficial health-wise.
Speaking of health-effects. Let’s learn more about how CBG interacts internally to provide its specific benefits.
Specific benefits of CBG
As specific CBG benefits are being explored, processors and extractors are working hard towards trying to harness the helpful cannabinoid at larger quantities. To put it into comparison to CBD, to produce CBD oil hemp plants normally produce 20% CBD to only 1% CBG.
Meaning, they’d have to produce 20x as much material, to meet the quantity needed for CBD oil goods. But with the lengthy list of individual benefits, you can see why the work may be worth it. Without further ado, here are the specific benefits that the CBG cannabinoid can provide.
- Anti-inflammatory. CBG is anti-inflammatory like other cannabinoids but specifically for the bowels, too. CBG can better address digestive issues like IBS, when compared to CBD or THC.
- Neuroprotective. CBG is highly neuroprotective, which means it helps prevent the loss of cells – specifically in the brain. Which is against many myths we’ve heard on cannabis before. This helps CBG be specifically helpful for neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimers, Parkinsons and Huntington’s disease.
- Anti-bacterial. CBG is an antibacterial in nature and can even help aid severe conditions like MRSA. CBG is also showing to help common skin infections like eczema and psoriasis.
- Eye heath. CBG can specifically reduce intraocular pressure in the eye which can lead to Glaucoma. The cannabinoid can help increase blood flow to the eye by widening blood cells too.
- Bladder support. Similar to it acting as a digestive aid, CBG has also shown efficacy towards controlling muscle contractions that often lead to bladder issues.
- Fighting Cancer. This one benefit is why CBG effects are being further explored. From early studies, CBG is shown to actually fight the growth of cancer cells. In addition to being able to block receptors that allow cancers to grow. Lastly, CBG has shown to be effective in inhibiting tumours, like the ones found in colon types of cancer.
Top 3 Strains with CBG
Breeders have spent most of their time, thus far, trying to harness higher levels of CBD and THC. So, strains high in CBG are still in their infancy. But, as more and more testing is done on genetics that are already widely available – we’ve learned some already have higher levels of CBG than others. Here’s the Top 3 Strains you’ve probably heard of, that surprisingly have high levels of CBG.
Trainwreck
Trainwreck is a classic strain that comes from legendary genetics and is known for its potent effects. Which CBG may have to do with. The strain normally clocks in around .1 % of the cannabinoid which may seem small but every little bit will provide its beneficial effects. Trainwreck is preferred by many medical consumers, for its energizing effects that are ideal for daytime use.
Watermelon Zkittlez
Watermelon Zkittlez is an indica dominant strain that is pungent in fruity aromas, plus potent in THC and CBG. Together the strain’s unique combination of cannabinoids is highly effective for relieving pain. Because of Watermelon Zkittlez more indica effects, it’s preferred for nighttime use and can promote a restful sleep, too.
God’s Green Crack
God’s Green Crack is a well-balanced hybrid that is highly potent in THC topping levels of 25%+. In addition to boasting surprisingly high levels of CBG too, hovering around .131%. The strain is well-liked for its energizing effects, ideal for daytime use. While still providing relief from anxiety, and providing a comfortable yet, not sedating body buzz.
The New Kid on the Block – CBG
You may have already benefited from trace amounts of CBG in one of your favorite strains without even knowing it. But now you know the cannabinoid’s wide range of health effects that might be helpful to the condition’s you’re trying to relieve.
Like most things in marijuana, the more you know, the better you can customize your cannabis routine to fit your needs. If you’re seeking relief with high-quality products, ease and convenience look no further than MMJDirect. We strive to deliver the trendiest of cannabinoid goods, as quickly as the market evolves.