While we are all used to the hype around THC and CBD, a new cannabinoid is gaining international attention.
THC and CBD are the two best-known compounds present in cannabis, but they aren’t the only cannabinoids. While there are over 730 different strains of cannabis, most plants contain over 100 cannabinoids.
Cannabigerol or ‘CBG’ for short is a minor compound that’s been making major waves internationally. The cannabinoid is what’s called a ‘minor cannabinoid’, as most cannabis strains contain less than 1% CBG.
Once it’s exposed to ultraviolet light or any heat, CBG begins to break down – forming THC and CBD. However, researchers and cannabis fans are becoming more interested in CBG itself.
While there are few clinical trials on CBG alone, initial tests have some interesting findings. In a PubMed study, CBG was found to block the receptors responsible for growing colon cancer cells. In another PubMed study, it was found to be effective in treating glaucoma – as our eyes are full of endocannabinoid receptors. As CBG is not psychoactive, researchers are confident it can be used for a wide range of medical purposes not suitable for THC.
In the recreational cannabis industry, CBG is also increasingly popular. As producing strains rich in CBG is difficult, CBG containing products have become luxury goods that retail for a high price tag. This has made CBG products collector’s items, as the cannabinoid has a unique cultivar – according to Pure Exchange owner Dillion Gross.
Minor cannabinoids allow us to explore what the cannabis plant can do on the whole, instead of just a get-you-high context.
While we have no clinical trials on recreational users, anecdotal evidence from Leafly suggests the cannabinoid may be suitable for users who want to relax without risking the adverse effects of psychoactive cannabis (i.e. paranoia and anxiety).
Long term, CBG could be the gateway to more genetically engineered cannabis here in Australia – but without a time machine, we can’t know for sure.
You can read more about Australia’s current cannabis oil here.
