What is CBG? Mechanisms, effects and uses
CBG, the "mother cannabinoid" of hemp, explored for inflammation, skin, and focus.
CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it is a precursor to CBD and THC in the plant. Research is focusing on its potential effects on inflammation, digestive comfort, skin balance, and focus.
01CBG: what are we talking about?
CBG is present in small quantities in mature hemp: the plant first converts CBGa (acidic form) into other cannabinoids (CBDa, THCa...). The final CBG is therefore rarer, which explains the interest in dedicated extracts.
It interacts with the endocannabinoid system and can modulate the activity of CB1 and CB2 receptors, as well as other targets such as TRP channels.
02Potential effects under study
Inflammation and digestive comfort
Preclinical work explores its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its interest for digestive comfort: a study on a murine model of colitis showed that CBG attenuated intestinal inflammation.
Focus and anxiety: the first human study
A first human clinical trial, encouraging but isolated
Until 2024, no human clinical trial had directly tested CBG. A study published in Scientific Reports by a team from Washington State University and UCLA changed that: 34 adults received either 20 mg of CBG or a placebo, in a double-blind, crossover trial.
CBG significantly reduced anxiety (approximately 26% on average compared to placebo) at 20, 45, and 60 minutes after administration, as well as perceived stress levels, without causing intoxication or typical cannabis effects.
A point of nuance: this is a single trial, on a small sample (34 participants). It is an encouraging signal, not yet sufficient proof for a clinical recommendation.
Detailed sources at the end of the article.CBG is sometimes sought after for a mild "focus" effect, without sedation, according to user feedback. Human scientific data on this specific point (focus) is still lacking.
Skin and sebum balance
CBG is being studied for skin balance (sebum, inflammation).
These are exploratory avenues; more human clinical trials are needed.
03How to use CBG
Adjustable sublingual oils (take in the morning for a "focus" effect or in the evening depending on the objective), capsules for precise dosage. Start low, increase gradually. CBG + CBD formulas can combine mental clarity and soothing. For sleep, lean more towards CBD or CBN.
04Frequently asked questions
Is CBG psychoactive?
No, it does not cause a feeling of euphoria like THC.
CBG or CBD: what's the difference?
CBD is more documented (stress, sleep, pain). CBG is being explored for inflammation, skin, and digestive comfort.
Does CBG help with focus?
User feedback suggests a mild "focus" effect. Human clinical evidence remains limited to date.
05Go further
Cannabinoid guides
Our collections
Blog articles
Cited scientific sources
- Cuttler C, Stueber A, Cooper ZD, Russo E. Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial. Scientific Reports, 14, 2024. Read the study
- Borrelli F, et al. Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology, 2013. Read the study
This article contains general information for educational purposes and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.