CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) are two of the non-psychoactive cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Both compounds have been the subject of interest for their potential health benefits and differences in how they affect the body. While CBD is a popular and well-known cannabinoid, CBG is relatively new to the market and less researched.

CBD is the most researched cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. Though CBD affects the body's receptors in the endocannabinoid system, CBD does not bond directly with these receptors, meaning that CBD has an indirect impact on the binding action of other cannabinoids1. CBD is also believed to offer other benefits, including the promotion of relaxation, helping to relieve anxiety and stress.

On the other hand, CBG is considered a minor cannabinoid, and while it shares similarities with CBD, there are notable differences. CBG interacts with the ECS system's receptors, but CBG bonds directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, allowing it to potentially impact the body more directly[^2]. CBG is also believed to offer inflammation-reducing and antimicrobial properties.

In terms of legal status, CBD is federally legal in the U.S. following the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized the production and sale of hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC. On the other hand, CBG is legal in some states, but its legal status is less clear due to its sourcing from the cannabis plant, which remains illegal on a federal level.

In summary, the primary differences between CBD and CBG relate to their effects on the body and their legal status. CBD is a more well-known and researched cannabinoid that offers relaxation and anxiety/stress relief while indirectly impacting the body's receptors. In contrast, CBG is a minor cannabinoid that bonds directly to the ECS receptors, potentially offering inflammation-reducing and antimicrobial properties.

It is essential to note that much more research is necessary to confirm potential health benefits that CBD and CBG may offer, and users should always consult with health professionals before consuming any new supplements or medications. Ultimately, the choice between using CBD or CBG may depend on an individual's specific needs, preferences, and desired effects.

Sources:

1. “Cannabinol (CBN) vs. CBD: What’s the Difference?” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-vs-cbn[^2]: “Cannabigerol (CBG) vs. CBD: What’s the Difference.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cbg-vs-cbd. ↩