CBG: What Is It and What Are the Benefits?
There’s a lot of buzz around CBD these days, but have you heard about CBG? This lesser-known cannabinoid is emerging as the next big thing in plant-based wellness. Think of CBG as CBD’s energetic cousin: naturally occurring in hemp, non-psychoactive, and packed with potential.
CBG (short for Cannabigerol) may not be a household name yet, but it’s starting to make waves. Early research suggests it may help with everything from focus and mood to inflammation and discomfort.
If you’re looking for new ways to support your mind and body, CBG might be just what you’re looking for. Let’s break down what it is, how it works, and how to use it—plus a few of our favorite Treadwell Farms products to help you get started.
What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)?
So, what is CBG exactly? Often called the "mother cannabinoid," CBG is a compound in the hemp plant that starts out as CBGa (cannabigerolic acid). CBGa is the precursor from which other cannabinoids, like CBD and THC, are synthesized during the plant’s growth.
As the hemp plant matures, most CBGa is converted into other compounds (which is why CBGa is found in higher concentrations in young hemp plants). Through a process called decarboxylation that occurs when the plant is exposed to heat and light, the residual CBGa transforms into CBG.
CBG is considered a minor cannabinoid in CBD- and THC-domainant plants because it’s present in smaller amounts than the major cannabinoids those plants are bred for. But don’t let the term "minor" fool you! CBG actually plays a significant role in the hemp plant’s development and therapeutic potential.
Furthermore, new advancements have resulted in CBG plant breeders developing new plants that genetically feature higher quantities of CBG. Through this advancement, Treadwell Farms is able to create CBG-focused products without harvesting the CBG from CBD and THC plants.
Importantly, CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t produce an intoxicating effect. Like CBD, it offers wellness support without altering your mental state, making it a safe and appealing option for everyday use.
CBG vs. CBD: Key Differences and Similarities
Let’s take a look at the comparison between CBG vs CBD. While CBG and CBD share some common features—both are non-psychoactive and federally legal—they interact with the body in distinct ways and offer different effects. Understanding their differences can help you make informed decisions about which cannabinoid (or combination) suits your wellness needs.
How CBG and CBD Work Differently
CBG binds directly to your body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Your ECS helps regulate functions like mood, appetite, pain response, and inflammation. This direct interaction may explain CBG’s effects, which tend to feel more targeted and energizing.
By contrast, CBD works indirectly, influencing the ECS without binding strongly to those receptors. This subtle mechanism contributes to CBD’s gentle and broad-spectrum support.
Despite their differences, both CBG and CBD are non-intoxicating and can be used daily to support wellness goals.
Effects Profile Comparison
CBG is often described as uplifting and energizing, making it a great choice for daytime use and enhanced focus. Some users compare its effects to a light boost, like enjoying a cup of coffee but without those unwanted jitters afterward.
On the other hand, CBD is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Many people use CBD to have a better day and as part of a bedtime routine in the evening to promote restful sleep. For example, Treadwell Farms’ Evening Blend CBD Extract is a full-spectrum CBD tincture, with the naturally-occurring ratio of CBG, that is designed to support relaxation for a restorative slumber.
CBG Benefits: What the Research Says
Research into CBG benefits is still in its early stages, but initial studies suggest a wide range of potential therapeutic effects. These benefits may complement or enhance those of CBD, especially when the two are used together.
Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief
One of the top CBG effects is its potential to reduce pain and inflammation, and it works differently than CBD. Because CBG binds with CB2 receptors (which are linked to immune response), it may help target localized pain and swelling more effectively.
This makes CBG especially appealing in topical products, like Treadwell Farms’ Rapid Relief Cream with CBG, which combines the soothing effects of CBG and CBD to support tired muscles and sore joints.
Scientific studies continue to explore CBG’s effects. A 2024 research review notes that CBG shows promise in relieving symptoms of inflammatory bowel conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Mood and Anxiety Support
A recent clinical trial showed that CBG usage resulted in a 26.5% reduction in anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may help you manage stress and mental tension without causing sedation.
Unlike THC or heavy sedatives, CBG offers clear-headed stress relief, making it suitable for daytime use. Early evidence also points to CBG’s potential to support mood balance and help manage symptoms of depression.
Additional Therapeutic Properties
Beyond inflammation and mood, researchers are exploring CBG’s broader therapeutic potential for:
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Neuroprotective benefits for degenerative conditions like Huntington’s disease.
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Antibacterial effects, including activity against drug-resistant strains like MRSA.
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Eye health support through reducing intraocular pressure, which may benefit those with glaucoma.
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Appetite stimulation, potentially useful for people dealing with low appetite due to illness or medication.
CBG Products and How to Use Them
CBG products are available in a variety of formats, including tinctures, gummies, oils, and topicals. Because it occurs in low concentrations in most hemp plants, CBG-rich products are often more expensive and harder to find than their CBD counterparts. However, thanks to recent progress in genetics, we’re now able to grow plant varieties with higher concentrations of CBG that are viable for extraction.
That said, one of the most effective ways to experience CBG is through full-spectrum CBD products! Full-spectrum CBD oil retains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the live hemp plant, allowing it to harness the synergy of the entourage effect. The entourage effect is a theory that suggests cannabinoids may work even better when they’re all together.
High-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil (like Treadwell Farms’) naturally contains small amounts of CBG along with CBD and the hemp plant’s other compounds. This oil extract is used in all of our CBG and CBD products.
For tinctures that are crafted to help promote daily balance and recovery, check out our Citrus Spice CBD Extract and Everyday Essential CBD Extract. Tinctures are taken orally with a dropper or in your favorite beverage.
Citrus-C CBD Gummies are tasty and discreet, and come in pre-measured doses, making them a fun and easy way to take your CBD anytime, anywhere.
Our Rapid Relief Cream with CBG delivers targeted comfort by blending equal parts of CBG extract with our full-spectrum CBD oil, along with hemp-derived terpenes and botanical ingredients such as menthol, spearmint, aloe, and arnica. Simply rub a small amount into your skin where you’re experiencing discomfort.
Safety and Considerations
Like CBD, CBG is generally well-tolerated. Most users report minimal side effects, which may include:
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Dry mouth
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Dizziness
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Low blood pressure
Because research on CBG is still emerging, it’s wise to start with a low dose and see how your body responds. Always consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription medications.
Although CBG shows exciting promise, long-term safety studies are limited. As with all plant-based supplements, ongoing research will help deepen our understanding of its full effects.
The Future of CBG in Wellness
As you become more aware of minor cannabinoids and their unique properties, CBG is likely to play a larger role in your natural wellness routine. There’s strong potential for combination products that blend CBG with CBD, terpenes, and other cannabinoids for more tailored support.
At Treadwell Farms, we’re committed to hemp education and quality and innovation in our cannabinoid-rich products. Whether you’re exploring CBG for the first time or looking to enhance your existing routine, we invite you to explore our selection and find the right plant-powered solution for your needs!
About the Author
Jammie Treadwell has co-owned and operated Treadwell Farms since 2019 handling everything from nursery operations to product development. Treadwell and her parents continue her family's Florida farming legacy by intentionally creating natural, small-batch artisanal hemp products trusted and tested with the community in mind.
Sources
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Anderson, B. D., Sepulveda, D. E., Nachnani, R., Cortez-Resendiz, A., Coates, M. D., Beckett, A., Bisanz, J. E., Kellogg, J. J., & Raup-Konsavage, W. M. (2024). High Cannabigerol Hemp Extract Moderates Colitis and Modulates the Microbiome in an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Model. The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, 390(3), 331–341. https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.124.002204.
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Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z. D., & Russo, E. (2024). Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial. Scientific Reports, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0
- Cannabinoids offer new hope for safe and effective pain relief. (2025, January 21). Yale News. https://news.yale.edu/2025/01/21/cannabinoids-offer-new-hope-safe-and-effective-pain-relief
