What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is considered a minor cannabinoid because it is present in much lower concentrations compared to THC and CBD. CBG is often referred to as the "mother cannabinoid" because it is a precursor to other cannabinoids. During the plant's growth cycle, CBG-A (the acidic form of CBG) is converted into other cannabinoids through enzymatic reactions (Rahn, 2019, p. 1).
Neuroprotective Properties:
CBG has shown promising neuroprotective effects in preclinical studies. Research suggests that CBG may help protect neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Huntington's disease (Rahn, 2019, p. 2). CBG has demonstrated an ability to activate the CB1 receptor, which is involved in regulating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress (De Petrocellis et al., 2011, p. 1479). Additionally, CBG has been found to increase levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes neuronal survival and growth (Rahn, 2019, p. 2).
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Inflammation plays a crucial role in various chronic conditions, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis. CBG has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties in animal studies. It acts on specific receptors in the endocannabinoid system to modulate the inflammatory response, potentially offering therapeutic benefits in managing inflammatory conditions (Rahn, 2019, p. 2). CBG has been found to interact with the CB2 receptor, which is primarily expressed on immune cells and is involved in regulating immune responses and inflammation (De Petrocellis et al., 2011, p. 1479).
Antimicrobial Properties:
Research has shown that CBG exhibits potential antimicrobial properties. In a study, CBG was found to be effective against drug-resistant bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These findings suggest that CBG may have a role in combating bacterial infections, offering an alternative or adjunct to traditional antibiotics (Appendino et al., 2008, p. 1427). CBG has been found to inhibit the growth of bacterial colonies and disrupt biofilm formation, which are crucial factors in the pathogenesis of bacterial infections (Appendino et al., 2008, p. 1428).
GPR55 Receptor Modulation:
CBG has been found to act as an antagonist at the GPR55 receptor, a receptor associated with various physiological processes, including blood pressure regulation and bone density modulation. Modulating GPR55 activity may have implications in managing hypertension and bone-related disorders, although further research is needed to fully understand these effects (De Petrocellis et al., 2011, p. 1483). GPR55 is expressed in various tissues, including the cardiovascular system and bones, and its dysregulation has been implicated in cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis (De Petrocellis et al., 2011, p. 1483).
Potential Anti-Cancer Properties:
Emerging studies have suggested that CBG may possess anticancer properties. Preclinical research has demonstrated CBG's ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce tumor growth in animal models, including colorectal cancer and breast cancer. Although more research is needed, these findings hold promise for CBG as a potential therapeutic agent in cancer treatment (Bifulco et al., 2006, p. 130). CBG has been found to interact with specific receptors involved in cancer cell proliferation and survival, including the CB1 receptor and the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels (Bifulco et al., 2006, p. 130).
Conclusion:
Cannabigerol (CBG) is an intriguing cannabinoid with a range of potential benefits for human health. From its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties to antimicrobial and potential anti-cancer effects, CBG demonstrates promise in various areas of healthcare. However, it's important to note that much of the research on CBG is still in its early stages, and further studies, including clinical trials, are needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential and establish optimal dosage guidelines.
As the scientific community continues to explore the therapeutic properties of CBG, it is essential to maintain an evidence-based approach, allowing for informed discussions and informed decision-making regarding its potential benefits for human health.
Where can I buy CBG?
As the potential benefits of CBG become more recognized, various CBG products are entering the market. One such product is our Serenity Squares, which contain 25mg of CBG per serving with additional therapeutic Cannabinoids designed to sooth and relieve. When choosing a CBG product, it's essential to prioritize quality and safety. Our products undergo third-party testing to ensure purity and potency making sure you get the best product possible.
References:
Appendino, G., Gibbons, S., Giana, A., Pagani, A., Grassi, G., Stavri, M., ... & Rahman, M. M. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study. Journal of Natural Products, 71(8), 1427-1430.
Bifulco, M., Laezza, C., Pisanti, S., & Gazzerro, P. (2006). Cannabinoids and cancer: pros and cons of an antitumour strategy. British Journal of Pharmacology, 148(2), 123-135.
De Petrocellis, L., Ligresti, A., Moriello, A. S., Allarà, M., Bisogno, T., Petrosino, S., ... & Di Marzo, V. (2011). Effects of cannabinoids and cannabinoid-enriched Cannabis extracts on TRP channels and endocannabinoid metabolic enzymes. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1479-1494.
Rahn, B. (2019). A profile of cannabigerol (CBG). Project CBD. Retrieved from https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabinoid-science/cbg-educational-leaflet.
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