Where to buy CBG flowers in the UK

Note: Click here to go straight to the CBG flowers shop!

Summary

With over 100 cannabinoids discovered in cannabis so far, CBG and CBD, in particular, are causing a lot of excitement in the health and wellbeing space. This article places CBG under the microscope and discusses the potential benefits and synergy between CBD and CBG. We put together a short list, and will continue to add much more information to this space, so check back!

The world of CBD can be confusing at times, especially when you throw other cannabinoids into the mix like CBG, CBN and CBC... But CBG - known as the mother of all cannabinoids - is one to know about it. Here we delve into what this cannabinoid is and how it can help you reach your wellness goals.

What is CBD?

First, let’s look at one of the most famous cannabinoids - CBD. CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over 100 phytocannabinoids that endow the plant with its unique benefits.

CBD shot to fame after it was found to be safe, non-addictive and potentially beneficial for human health. Although the cannabis plant has been used for thousands of years for different purposes, scientists are only just unlocking the biomolecular makeup of this fascinating plant.

While more research is needed, anecdotal reviews and early studies suggest that CBD may be beneficial for various common issues. CBD interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which plays a vital role in regulating and maintaining homeostasis. That’s why CBD is known as a compound that promotes physical and mental balance.

What is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is the third most researched cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. It’s known as the mother of all cannabinoids because other prominent cannabinoids like CBD and THC start out as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). CBG is not as abundant as CBD in cannabis plants, but it possesses various unique properties. Like CBD, CBG is a non-addictive and non-intoxicating compound.

How is CBG made?

CBG is found most abundantly in young plants because most CBGA is converted to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. That’s why it’s rare to find strains with naturally high levels of CBG, and because it’s such a valuable cannabinoid, it is more expensive to produce.

How CBG works

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signalling system vital in maintaining our overall wellness. It is made up of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors - CB1 and CB2. Its primary role is homeostasis which involves keeping substances such as hormones, fluids, and other chemicals in the right amounts at the right time to help our body to stay healthy and balanced.

Cannabinoids, like CBD and CBG, can interact with the receptors of the ECS because they have a similar chemical structure to the body's endocannabinoids. Once CBD and CBG get into the bloodstream, they can interact with cannabinoid receptors in various ways to create a physiological response.

Should I use CBG and CBD together?

Studies have uncovered a potential increased action when CBD is used with CBG. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect. Studies show that products containing both cannabinoids can cause a greater effect on the body because these compounds strengthen each other's effect.

Related: Where to buy CBG flowers in the UK

CBD vs CBG

Although CBD starts as CBGA, CBD and CBG are distinct cannabinoids in their own right. Let’s first look at what makes them similar.

Both CBG and CBD are considered non-intoxicating and non-addictive compounds. They’re popular compounds because they can potentially alter the mind and body in a healthy and gentle way. In the past, cannabis got a bad rep because of the intoxicating compound - THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) causes the mind-altering states known as “stoned” or “high”. Interestingly, both CBD and CBG have the potential to counteract the intoxicating effects of THC when taken in the right dosage.

Despite these similarities, there are some significant differences between CBD and CBG too. While CBD mainly interacts indirectly with the ECS to regulate endocannabinoids, CBG works directly on CB1 and CB2 receptors. Although research is still in its early stages, it’s thought that CBG has an energising effect while CBD is more calming. Comparably, there’s more research available on CBD than CBG, largely because CBG is far harder to source in high quantities. Yet, many studies show CBG’s primary properties include antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

CBG’s potential medical benefits

Numerous studies and trials exploring the benefits of phytocannabinoids are ongoing. However, research and anecdotal accounts from users present the exciting potential of CBG. Here are some potential benefits that this cannabinoid may offer:

Improved energy and concentration.
Antibacterial properties.
Anti-pain properties.
Anti-inflammatory properties.

Does it cause any side effects?

At present, there’s not enough research to know for sure about the potential side effects of CBG. According to animal studies, CBG appears to be well tolerated and non-toxic much like CBD. Again, similar to CBD, it may cause minor side effects such as digestive issues but this is very rare and has not found to have ever been a serious issie.

While it’s unclear if CBG carries the same risk as CBD when it comes to drug interactions, it’s best to stay on the safe side. Check with a healthcare professional if you take any medication or supplements, especially if they carry a grapefruit warning.

Choosing a CBG product

CBG is rather elusive and much more challenging to get hold of compared to CBD. Because hemp plants make CBG in such minute amounts, CBG products tend to be slightly pricey. You could always try a full-spectrum CBD oil and check the lab report to see how much CBG it contains. It’s also widely agreed that cannabinoids work best when they’re all taken together to benefit from the entourage effect, so choose full-spectrum products.

Where to buy CBG in the UK

Click here to view the CBG shop!

Conclusion

Today's market is full of hemp-based products in different forms, so it can be hard to know where to start. CBD and CBG have been making noise in the wellness industry due to the potential benefits for common issues however you should always speak to a professional when seeking medical advice, and always check lab reports are genuine and up-to-date