Woman rolling a nine realms cannabis joint on the table

How CBG Interacts with THC and CBD: Explained

Author: Edijs Eleksis

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Time: 7 min

Introduction

You've likely heard of THC and CBD, but what about CBG? And how CBG interacts with THC and CBD? Understanding this can feel like cracking a complex code, but it is a fascinating exploration into the world of cannabinoids and their potential therapeutic benefits .


Cannabis contains a number of biologically active compounds, such as cannabinoids. When a person takes these compounds orally, they interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body. Let's break down how CBG, or cannabigerol, interacts with the more famous THC and CBD to produce its unique impact.

Understanding the Basics of Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. The most well-known are THC, CBD, and CBG.


The plant Cannabis sativa contains over 400 chemical compounds. Around 80 of them are biologically active, influencing the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate vital functions, like sensing pain, appetite, and even memory.

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis. It is responsible for the "high" users feel by its binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. While known for its euphoric effects, THC products can assist with appetite stimulation and pain relief.


Because it is psychoactive, it can also cause motor skill impairment. Keep this in mind when trying different variations.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another cannabinoid found in cannabis, but it doesn’t produce that high. CBD products are really well known for reducing stress and their anti-anxiety properties.


Studies reveal that CBD products like cartridges have shown altered brain activity in imaging scans. It's really appealing to those seeking relief from anxiety, pain, and for promoting more restful sleep.

What is CBG?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is also a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, often called the "mother of all cannabinoids." Other cannabinoids are derived from CBG oil.


Known for supporting brain health, it works by boosting dopamine levels. This provides mood enhancements without sedation.

Summary: Cannabinoids are natural compounds in cannabis that affect things like mood, pain, and appetite. THC is the one that makes you feel high, CBD helps with stress and sleep, and CBG supports brain health and focus. CBG is like the "parent" of other cannabinoids, and unlike THC, it won’t get you high.

How CBG Interacts with THC and CBD: The Entourage Effect

The "entourage effect" comes into play when talking about using these cannabinoids together. It suggests that cannabinoids can amplify each other's effects.


For example, CBD can reduce the psychoactive effects of THC. This can give a much more balanced therapeutic approach.

The Balancing Act of Cannabinoids

A very fascinating part of this interaction is the balancing effect that occurs. CBG and CBD help by interacting with your endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating pain, mood, and balance.


While THC products like flower or vapes are famous for their "high" effects, CBD and CBG moderate the outcome, leading to more stable results. Users may experience anxiety, and with CBG helping out , it will lead to an enhanced calm feeling.

Man smoking a nine realms cannabis joint in his hand

Practical Benefits of Combining CBG, THC, and CBD

Combining these cannabinoids is not just theoretical. It shows real results in our daily wellness routines. Combining them can also lead to potential health benefits.

Anxiety and Stress Relief

For stress and anxiety, THC and CBD may provide the greatest calming properties. The mood-enhancing elements of CBG can help as well.


Research, in a 2020 review, discussed compound use for treating anxiety. The results revealed positive support for this use.

Pain Management

CBD's properties can help with managing discomfort from pain and inflammation. Full-spectrum CBD combines these properties for maximum effectiveness.


THC and CBG combine together and bind to our pain reception areas to then minimize inflammation problems. One 2018 study showed that CBD reduced inflammation in mice by minimizing release triggers.

Improving Mood

CBG plays a critical part in regulating emotional modulation, impacting mood levels. CBD then helps contribute by calming the brain and providing relaxation. Many people report an energetic high with consistent CBG use.


This can all lead to an improved overall balance when using the various cannabinoids together, especially with an entourage effect. The results may have a greater overall positive effect on the consumer. Some users report reduced anxiety when combining cannabinoids.

Woman holding a nine realms flower bundle in her hands

Comparing CBD and CBG: Key Differences

So how different are CBD and CBG ? Let’s dive in on some key distinctions. Each of these may even provide their own potential therapeutic benefits.


They each produce their own impacts, with CBG giving energizing feelings, like coffee. CBD is more known for the relaxing results. Another variation is the "strength" that consumers report feeling.

Abundance in the Hemp Plant

Another main difference, beyond how it affects people, lies in how available they are within the hemp plant. Usually, a hemp plant contains more CBD, by roughly 20%.


Comparison of CBD and CBG

Feature

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBG (Cannabigerol)

Psychoactive

No

No

Abundance in Hemp

20-25%

< 1%

Effects

Relaxing/Calming, possibly drowsy at higher levels

Focus and Clarity

Primary Benefits

Anxiety and sleep

Focus

Inflammation

Helps, possibly in the production and efficiency in endocannabinoids

Targets this directly at the CB1 and CB2 receptors

Availability in Products

Common

Less Common


Unique Benefits

They have distinct individual contributions. CBD can lead to the promotion of healthy pain management and promote overall healthier inflammatory results. The antioxidant properties of CBD are also noteworthy.


On the other hand, CBG provides a more uplifted result for better focus, in addition to addressing areas of pain. Some research indicates CBG may help with specific health conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and glaucoma. However, more studies are needed for definitive conclusions on how CBG is effective.

Are These Cannabinoids Legal?

Legality varies for any of the cannabinoid variations. CBG and CBD are usually acceptable under the limit for hemp-based ones of below 0.3% total THC content.


One source indicated cannabis plants that meet that level are not on the controlled substances radar. Country laws can differ, so always check your local regulations before purchasing or consuming any cannabis product, especially THC work products.

Choosing the Right Products: How to Consume

Knowing your choices is great for choosing the proper strategy for consumption. Keep in mind that, according to a 2018 study of quitting smoking, attentional cues helped when compared with a placebo option. The study revealed those benefits and more are still being discovered.

Different Consumption Styles

Different people will have a preference in how they might want to absorb CBD, CBG, and even THC. Below are some different choices.


  • Topicals: For external use, like creams. A user applies it to targeted regions and gives local support without penetrating too much.
  • Gummies: Each piece contains the same amount of cannabinoids, so they are convenient and easier to create routines with. Consider options like CBD gummies or CBG gummies for consistent dosing.
  • Capsules: An even easier and more discreet approach. This is ideal for those not in a position to deal with flavors or chewable versions.
  • Oils: With rapid absorption and easier delivery, they tend to be faster-acting. One can measure their exact serving with this strategy, whether using CBD oil or CBG oil.

Finding High-Quality Extracts

Keep an eye on full-spectrum varieties when choosing different types of products. These options bring the combined power of everything the plant may offer, enhancing the entourage effect.


The theory is known as, "The Entourage Effect." Think of it more as cannabinoids working together towards success, instead of the more common rivalry that "entourage" often infers in television and media.

Conclusion

Cannabinoids like CBD and CBG offer different approaches to improve our daily lives, including wellness and overall discomfort from pain or mental imbalance. Both show great potential therapeutic benefits. More research could provide additional positive perceived medical effects.


As science continues its discovery, the question of how CBG interacts with THC and CBD will continue to be an exciting proposition. We will hopefully continue to discover new pathways in wellness, involving our brains, hearts, and endocannabinoid systems.


The combination may ultimately change all that is out there. This really all helps contribute to well-being when these types of products are included in our routines. Further studies could determine things like liver damage that may be affected by consistent use or a higher dose.


Remember that everyone's system is different. How your own endocannabinoid system (ECS) is performing will determine how you receive cannabinoids, so it's important to use low to mid-range dosages to understand personal needs. Be well, my friends, and stay well.

“CBG is the stem cell of cannabinoids—the foundation from which wellness grows.”

FAQs about How CBG Interacts with THC and CBD

Does CBG work better with THC and CBD?

Yes! CBG, THC, and CBD enhance each other’s effects, making them more effective together.

Can CBG reduce THC’s high?

CBG may help balance THC’s effects, making the experience feel smoother and less overwhelming.

Should I take CBG or CBD?

CBD is great for relaxation, while CBG helps with focus and inflammation. Many people use both for better balance.

Pretty Cool Nine Realms Blog Author

Author: Edijs Eleksis

Growing up in a country where cannabis was stigmatized and even shamed, Edijs faced many roadblocks to get to enjoy the benefits of this plant. However, as more countries worldwide are opening up to the idea of cannabis-available society, Edijs is inspired to take on a mission: spreading awareness about cannabis and its industry in Europe through engaging, educational blog content. Because only with more information, humans as a collective, can make decisions that are better for all of us!