Last updated: June 2026
CBD and THC dominate the cannabinoid conversation — but the cannabis plant contains hundreds of fascinating compounds. CBG (cannabigerol) is one that’s attracting growing interest from researchers and wellness enthusiasts alike. Here’s what you need to know.
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What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a phytocannabinoid — a cannabinoid found in plants rather than produced by the body. Like CBD, CBG is non-psychoactive and will not produce a high. It is found in relatively small concentrations in most cannabis and hemp plants (around 1%), making CBG products more expensive to produce than CBD.
CBG: the “mother of all cannabinoids”
CBG holds a unique position in the cannabinoid family — it is the original building block from which other cannabinoids are made. In its acidic form (CBGA), it serves as the precursor to CBD, CBC and THC. As the cannabis plant matures, CBGA naturally converts into these other cannabinoids. In a very real sense, without CBG, CBD and THC wouldn’t exist.
CBG vs CBD — key differences
| Factor | CBG | CBD |
|---|---|---|
| Psychoactive? | No | No |
| Availability | Rare — ~1% of plant | Abundant — up to 25% |
| Price | More expensive | More affordable |
| Research | Early-stage | Extensive |
| ECS interaction | More direct receptor binding | Indirect, via FAAH inhibition |
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Yes — and many users prefer to. The entourage effect suggests cannabinoids work synergistically, enhancing each other’s benefits when consumed together. This is why broad-spectrum CBD oils — which retain CBG and other minor cannabinoids alongside CBD — are widely considered more effective than isolates.
Read more: The entourage effect
Potential benefits of CBG
Research is early-stage. No clinical conclusions can yet be drawn, but studies suggest:
- Pain relief — CBG is being studied for chronic pain applications
- Anti-inflammatory — early research suggests potential for arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions
- Intraocular pressure — some studies indicate CBG may help lower eye pressure, potentially beneficial for glaucoma
- Antibacterial — CBG has shown activity against drug-resistant bacteria including MRSA in laboratory settings
Read more: Types of CBD | What is CBDV?
CBG and anandamide
CBG may boost anandamide levels in the body. Anandamide — the “bliss molecule” — is an endocannabinoid involved in memory, appetite, sleep, pain and mental health. A 2015 study found higher anandamide levels linked to mood enhancement and fear reduction. Since CBD also inhibits anandamide breakdown via the FAAH enzyme, taking CBD and CBG together may offer an even greater boost to the body’s natural anandamide levels.
How does CBG make you feel?
Research is limited, but anecdotal reports suggest CBG produces calm and relaxation — similar to CBD. There are no confirmed psychoactive effects. Due to the entourage effect, taking CBG alongside CBD may enhance both compounds’ effects.
Side effects of CBG
Generally well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience drowsiness, dry mouth or appetite changes. If adverse effects occur, stop use and consult a healthcare professional. Always choose products with published COAs and confirmed purity.
Is CBG available in the UK?
CBG is not widely available as a standalone supplement in the UK, though the market is growing. The most practical way to consume CBG is as part of a broad-spectrum CBD oil — check the Certificate of Analysis to confirm CBG is present. When buying CBG-specific products, be cautious of marketing hype; claims of CBG being “superior” to CBD are mostly anecdotal and not backed by robust research yet.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBG psychoactive?
No. CBG is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high.
Is CBG better than CBD?
Neither is objectively better. CBD has far more research behind it and is more affordable. CBG is the precursor to CBD and shows early promise in research — the two work best together via the entourage effect.
Can I take CBG and CBD together?
Yes — taking both together (as in a broad-spectrum CBD oil) may enhance effects via the entourage effect.
What does CBG feel like?
Anecdotally: calm and relaxation, similar to CBD. Clinical data are still limited.
Final thoughts: is CBG better than CBD?
CBG is fascinating — both as the cannabinoid precursor and as a compound with its own emerging research. But for now, CBD is better researched, more accessible and more affordable. For most people, the best approach is to choose a quality broad-spectrum CBD oil that naturally includes CBG and other minor cannabinoids alongside CBD — getting the entourage effect of both.
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