CBG (Cannabigerol)

With over 100+ cannabinoids identified in a cannabis plant, two emerge as the most common that we hear about these days. They are CBD and THC.

CBD (Cannabidiol):
A naturally occurring, non-psychoactive compound that is found in a cannabis plant. Its potency ranges from strain to strain but it is most effectively used medically for its therapeutic properties.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
A naturally occurring, psychoactive compound that is found in a cannabis plant. This compound is closely related to CBD and is responsible for the euphoric or high/intoxicating effect.

These two compounds interact with our bodies through receptors in our endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for regulating health and equilibrium throughout our body. The main receptors in the ECS are CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are most abundant in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds to this receptor to produce the intoxicating effect that cannabis plants are so famously known for. CB2 receptors are located mainly in the immune system.  CBD does not directly bind to CB1 but can inhibit THC from binding.

So what is CBG?

CBG (cannabigerol) is where it all begins. It is the precursor to which all other cannabinoids are formed. Similar to CBD, it is a non-psychoactive compound but is only found in trace amounts, less than 1%, in a cannabis plant. CBG remains in the plant until part way through the flowering stage where most of the compound will synthesize into other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Although CBG and CBD shares similarities, their treatment to a variety of ailments differ.

CBG vs CBD

Despite the fact that CBD originates from CBG their molecular structure and concentration are completely distinct. Both are naturally occurring, non-psychoactive, and are known to provide medical relief to a long list of ailments. While there are significant medicinal overlaps, each cannabinoid can target certain ailments that the other cannot. For example, CBD can provide relief for migraines, arthritis, anxiety and epileptic seizures whereas research has revealed that CBG can promote appetite, lower glaucoma pressure, fight certain cancers, and potentially treating bladder dysfunction. CBG has only recently been introduced yet its research suggests great medical potential.

Why is MGW pursuing a cannabinoid whose concentration makes up less than 1%?
Most cannabis strains are cultivated to produce high THC and CBD which means CBG would have been mostly synthesize into these cannabinoids. MGW, however, has various strains of hemp that yields a significantly higher concentration of CBG. The current market value is around $12,000/lb USD making it a great economical choice. While MGW continues to develop their cannabis line, they are ecstatic to be one of the first producers to establish a foothold in CBG enriched seed extraction.