CBG Learning
ApexXx CBD presents CBG oil.
Starting with some of the similarities of both CBD and CBG, it is important to note that they both work on the endocannabinoid system (also known as the ECS) meaning they do share a wide array of benefits. For example, both have exhibited antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Whats different however about these two oils is the way in which they work. On one hand CBD works by indirectly interacting with the receptors in the ECS where as the other, CBG, creates a more direct interaction with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. On top of that, using both CBG and CBD together have been shown to participate in the entourage effect magnifying the therapeutic effect of each one when administered together.
AN INTRODUCTION TO CBG
CBG was first discovered in Israel in 1964 almost 30 years prior to the discovery of the human endocannibanoid system. Marijuana researchers Yehiel Gaoni and Raphael Mechoulam had just managed to isolate CBG, THC, and CBD from the cannabis plant. They may not have realised how important this was at the time however, it was this discovery that went on to become the entire basis of our understanding of the plant today.
Like other cannabinoids, CBG works by influencing the endocannabinoid system within our bodies. The endocannabinoid system is a complex collection of receptors (CB1 and CB2 receptors), chemicals called endocannabinoids, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids are compounds that our bodies produce. They bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors. Their role is to help regulate many of our physiological functions and maintain a state of internal balance.
CB1 receptors are primarily in the nervous system and brain. CB2 receptors are elsewhere in the body, mainly in the cells of the immune system. Many different endocannabinoids can bind with these receptors, but the most well-known are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
AEA binds primarily with CB1 receptors which acts very much like a neurotransmitter. In turn affecting our cognitive function and mood. On the other hand, 2-AG binds with CB1 and CB2 receptors, provoking an anti-inflammatory effect.
The cannabinoids in the cannabis plant also can bind with these receptors due to their similar shape. THC binds with CB1 receptors, altering the way you think and getting you high. CBD does not bind with these receptors easily but it does influence the way that they react with other cannabinoids.
WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS TO USING CBG?
- Anti-inflammatory
A study on CBG for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) produced some interesting results. The researchers found that CBG reduced inflammatory markers in mice with induced IBD and relieved colitis.
If scientists can confirm the anti-inflammatory properties of CBG, it may have broad applications far beyond the treatment of colitis. Chronic inflammation is most often associated with painful conditions such as arthritis. However, it is also linked to many serious disorders, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and cancer.
- Neuroprotective properties
Aside from anti-inflammatory effects, CBG may also act as an antioxidant and protect the nervous system from damage. It does this in a similar way to the endocannabinoid 2-AG.
Another study done on CBG found that the neuroprotective properties could help to improve motor deficits and preserve neurons in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntingtons disease.
It has been suggested that as well as influencing the CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBG may affect α2-adrenoceptors and 5-HT1A serotonin receptors in the nervous system.
Aswell as this, it is believed that CBG blocks the reuptake of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline by cells. If this proves to be accurate, then CBG could also be useful in combating the symptoms of depression.
- Antimicrobial - CBG, along with some other cannabinoids, has demonstrated antibacterial effects. When researchers tested it against various strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacterium in a laboratory, CBG was found to have significant antimicrobial properties. This finding is could be especially important in the future as antibiotic resistance is now becoming more and more commonplace.
- CBG for Bladder Problems - A 2015 study on cannabinoids for bladder dysfunction found that they are capable of reducing acetylcholine-induced bladder contractions in mice. Among all of the cannabinoids tested, CBG was one of the most effective, along with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV). CBG has also been shown to reduce these contractions in human subjects.
- Appetite Stimulant - When compared to a placebo CBG has shown to increase the number of meals consumed, doubling the overall food intake. However, the amount eaten at meals and the duration of meals was unaffected. We believe the use of CBG could potentially be used as part of therapy for eating conditions such as anorexia.