The names themselves can cause immediate confusion. It’s easy to assume a typo if you’re not familiar with the subject. In fact, far from being a misnomer, CBG and CBD are indeed two different things. You’re probably wondering: how or to what extent? CBD.FR offers a comparative article that will allow you to definitively distinguish CBG from CBD. That said, let’s get down to brass tacks!
CBG and CBD: same family, different definitions Indeed, it’s important to clarify here that CBG and CBD
belong to the same family. Which one? In fact, they are both molecules. Put that way, it seems vague, doesn’t it? We agree! This family is none other than that of the famous cannabinoids.
For those unfamiliar, cannabinoids are molecules extracted primarily from the cannabis plant. Their number is constantly changing. Nevertheless, several sources state that they (these molecules) number around one hundred. For others, it’s much more. That said, let’s now establish a contrast in terms of definitions. Indeed, as this Wikipedia article clearly indicates, CBG refers to cannabigerol. Meanwhile, on the other hand, this other Wikipedia article states that CBD refers to cannabidiol. In short, the first distinction between these two molecules lies in their designations and/or meanings.
CBG and CBD: parent molecule vs. daughter molecule
Indeed, this point is very delicate. Why? Because we are very tempted to delve into the chemical processes of molecule extraction in the laboratory. But the fundamental question remains: is it really necessary? We think NOT. Let’s keep it simple!
That being said, we would like to clarify the overall logic used to extract the molecules. In fact, laboratories refer to this as a “tree structure.” In other words, the parent molecules are used to extract the daughter molecules.
In this context, regarding our topic, CBG (CBGA during extraction) is used to extract a quantity of CBD (CBDA) and a quantity of THC (THCA). Therefore, at this level, the difference lies in the fact that one (CBG) is the parent molecule, while the other (CBD) is the daughter molecule. Different CompositionsIn fact, this aspect is a logical continuation of the previous one. Indeed, CBG and CBD do not have the same composition. We acknowledge that what follows will be slightly technical. Don’t worry if you don’t understand any of it. This information is provided for general knowledge of the cannabis industry.
So, what are these compositions? 1 – CBG
Clinical data on CBG CBG molecular structure Credit: Wikipedia
Above, the molar representation of CBG.
- CBG Credit: Wikipedia
CBG Identifiers
-> ChemSpider: 4474921
- -> UNII: J1K406072N
-> ChEBI: CHEBI: 69477
-> ChEMBL: ChEMBL497318
Chemical and Physical Data of CBG
-> Formula: C21H32O2
-> Molar Mass: 316.485 g·mol⁻¹
2 – CBD
- Clinical Data of CBD
CBD Structure
Credit: Wikipedia
Above, the molar representation of CBD.
- CBD
-> CAS Number: 13956-29-1
- -> PubChem: 644019
Chemical and Physical Data of CBD
-> Molecular Formula: C21H30O2
-> Molar Mass: 314.4617 ± 0.0195 g/mol
- C 80.21%, H 9.62%, O 10.18%
CBG and CBD: An immersion in the legislation
One of the common denominators in the realities of the cannabis world is its relationship to the law. Indeed, almost everything related to this plant is closely scrutinized by legislators. The goal is to control its cultivation, distribution, and use.
In this sense, CBD has been legalized by many countries worldwide. This, in turn, underscores that this molecule is known and categorized by lawmakers.
Conversely, CBG seems to go unnoticed in legislative debates concerning cannabis. In fact, it is not even listed in the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances and is not prohibited by the Controlled Substances Act in the United States. In short, while one (CBD) is known and regulated, the other (CBG) is not (at least, not yet). CBG and CBD: A Closer Look at the Industry This point is a continuation of the previous one. Indeed, the popularity of each of these molecules perfectly justifies its place in the cannabis industry.
It goes without saying that CBD products are flooding the market. You’ll find all types and varieties in online stores. The most illustrative example is CBD.FR. In fact, you’ll find everything you need in terms of CBD there. Conversely, CBG is rather rare. This explains why the CBG product industry isn’t very large. However, this doesn’t mean that these products don’t exist. Some specialized shops carry them, although the number isn’t very high, just like with CBD.
Over time, the figures will inevitably be positive, given the growing interest in this molecule.
