A Quick Guide To CBG Edibles
According to research, there are over 100 identified cannabinoids today. That number will likely increase as scientists continue their studies in that area. The most famous names in this list are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). CBD products, in particular, have become a common sight in many stores. If the current demand for these products goes by, mainstream CBD retailers will likely reach over USD$20 billion in sales within the next two years.
Another name shaking the cannabinoid industry is Cannabigerol (CBG). CBG comes in many forms, with CBG edibles becoming the users' favorite products. The potential benefits of CBG edibles have made them more popular in recent times. But what exactly are these products, and how does CBG compare to CBD? More on this in the article.
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol is one of the most popular chemicals obtained from the cannabis plant. It's often considered the precursor or the mother of all cannabinoids, and rightly so. Interestingly, CBD, THC, CBC, and CBG are all products of CBGA—the acidic form of CBG.
It's worth noting that most CBGA at the initial stages turns into CBD-A and THC-A. As such, most strains of cannabis plants usually yield around 1%, while 25% of CBD or THC can be obtained from the same. This rarity makes most, if not all, CBG products quite expensive. Nevertheless, many users are still willing to spend every penny on these chemicals because of their benefits.
What are CBG edibles?
CBG edibles refer to food products infused with CBG. They come in many forms, such as CBG Gummies, baked goods, candies, chocolates, beverages, and lozenges. You can either make them at home or purchase them readymade from stores. In homemade recipes, CBG can be spread directly on food or used in the form of butter or oil.
Remember that the effects of CBG are the same regardless of the edible you choose to consume. For instance, you'll feel the same when taking CBG chocolates or candies. Perhaps the only thing that may affect how you feel is the edible's potency. Most CBG gummies, for one, are highly potent.
What are the effects of CBG edibles?
Unfortunately, many people consume these edibles without knowing their health effects. Most beginners take CBG edibles with the hope of getting high. But what exactly are the effects of these products?
When you take in CBG, it’s processed by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The main purpose of ECS is to regulate the immune system, cardiovascular, and nervous functions inside cells. It's made up of receptors that keep the body in an optimal state.
When consumed, CBG imitates the operation of this system. It binds the cannabinoid receptors and strengthens the function of anandamide. As a result, it alleviates pain, regulates appetite and sleep, and enhances the relaxation of your body.
Why are CBG edibles becoming popular?
The number of CBG edibles users has grown in recent years. But why is this the case? Here are some reasons that could explain the increasing popularity:
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CBG has a great taste and comes in a variety of flavors
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It has minimal side effects as compared to other cannabinoids
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CBG products are easy to store even when travelling
Another reason why CBG edibles are becoming popular is because of their long-lasting benefits on the user’s body. Some of the benefits include:
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May help support focus
Users of CBG have reported a sense of alertness upon consuming the chemical. A possible explanation for this is that CBG has shown that it can support neurogenesis and can be an effective neuroprotectant.
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It may support a healthy appetite
If you’re struggling with appetite issues, CBG may offer possible solutions to your problem. This appetite-stimulating trait is often associated with THC; the same has been seen in CBG users.
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Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
CBG edibles may help reduce bowel inflammation caused by IBD. Research shows it can also prevent reactive oxygen species (ROS) from forming. Remember, though, that this is still in the experimentation stage.
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Therapeutic treatment of glaucoma
Research has also shown that CBG may come in handy in treating glaucoma. Again, there is no conclusive information on this as it's still being studied.
How does CBG compare to CBD?
CBG and CBD have a lot of similarities, but there are also a few distinctive features differentiating the two. Here is an in-depth comparison of these two popular cannabis plant products:
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Yield percentage
As mentioned earlier, most strains of plants produce around 1% of CBD or even less. The same strains, however, can yield up to 30% of CBD. Therefore, CBG is often considered a minor cannabinoid, while CBD is a major cannabinoid.
It’s worth noting, though, that these percentages don’t mean CBG isn’t as useful as CBD. CBG products have been proven to match the health benefits of CBD or even surpass them. However, you’re more likely to find CBD products at your local store because they’re more accessible than CBG.
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Psycho-activity
How high are you likely to feel when you take either of these cannabis products? It’s essential to remember that CBG and CBD are non-intoxicating cannabinoids. You’ll not experience any psychoactive effects when you take either of them, which means you won’t feel high. Research has shown that taking CBG or CBD can counteract the psychotropic effects of THC.
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Side effects
The two chemicals share some side effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth. However, CBG may lead to low blood pressure in some cases, while some CBD users have reported diarrhea. Additionally, CBG can stimulate appetite, while CBD may be used to reduce anxiety. Therefore, since they have a few similar side effects, the overall impact on your body may vary.
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Price
CBG is the most expensive cannabinoid, mainly because they’re rare. The amount spent on extracting 1% CBG can be used to produce 30% CBD. As such, many companies prefer investing more in the latter. This rarity impacts the prices of these products at the local stores, with users forced to spend more when purchasing CBG.
Conclusion
Cannabigerol is continuously growing in popularity, with many people indulging in edibles such as CBG gummies, chocolates, and baked goods. The main reasons why CBG has become many people’s favorite are its taste, minimal side effects, and the fact that it comes in various flavors. CBG has often been compared with CBD, and rightly so. The two have a lot of similarities, from their side effects to psycho-activity.
References
Iris Dorbian. “CBD Market Could Reach $20 Billion By 2024, Says New Study,” Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/irisdorbian/2019/05/20/cbd-market-could-reach-20-billion-by-2024-says-new-study/?sh=18f32eaf49d0
Anonymous. “Cannabis (Marijuana) And Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know,” Source: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know#:~:text=How%20many%20cannabinoids%20are%20there,other%20cannabinoids%20have%20been%20identified.
Ogletree, Kelsey. “Here Is What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Edibles,” Source: https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7591435/heres-what-happens-to-your-body-when-you-eat-edibles/
Leonard, Jayne. “What Are The Effects Of Cannabis Edibles,” Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/effects-of-edibles
Healthline Contributor. “Meet CBG, The New Cannabinoid On The Block,” Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/cbg-oil
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