Thanks to evolving legislation and a growing interest in natural medicine, more and more cannabinoid-based products are being marketed. Most people are familiar with the best-known cannabinoid: CBD, a powerful and popular ingredient in many remedies. While you may know what THC and that CBD is becoming increasingly popular, you might not be familiar with CBG and CBN.
These fascinating minor cannabinoids (in name only) potentially hold the key to helping treat several different ailments. Here, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these three substances and why they should pique your interest.
You can learn more about CBD by clicking here.
Everything you need to know about CBD (Cannabidiol)
By far the most widespread cannabinoid on the market, cannabidiol (CBD) has become almost ubiquitous in recent years. Shops dedicated to this hemp derivative have sprung up all over the world, and online CBD sales have exploded. Comparing these three compounds, it turns out that CBD is abundant and easy to produce. This makes it the most economical cannabinoid after THC. It is generally derived from hemp plants (with a THC content of less than 0.3%).
CBD is unanimously the most well-known cannabinoid in cannabis. This popularity is largely due to its ease of extraction. Although it is often associated with THC, known for its psychoactive properties, it's important to clarify that CBD is a harmless cannabinoid. It will not induce a state of euphoria, making it safe to use. Similarly, studies conducted to date have not revealed any signs of dependence or addiction.
Some properties and benefits of CBD
CBD has been the subject of several scientific studies. These studies have revealed its usefulness in the treatment of certain conditions.
Skin diseases
Applied to the skin as anoil or lotion, CBD is said to have an immediate effect. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, people suffering from psoriasis, acne, or dermatitis would benefit from using it.
Treatment of inflammation
As mentioned previously, CBD is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it has proven very effective in pain management. It is therefore recommended for relieving joint and skin pain and inflammation.
Anxiety
In addition to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD is also believed to have antidepressant properties. Specifically, CBD may help stimulate the secretion of serotonin, the "happiness hormone." Therefore, this cannabinoid helps to calm anxiety and stress.
CBG (Cannabigerol): what is it?
CBG is the abbreviation for cannabigerol. Like CBD and CBN, this compound is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. While it's true that almost all cannabis plants contain this cannabinoid, it's worth noting that it's more abundant in younger plants. Despite its significant role in producing several cannabinoids, CBG has only recently become widely known. Yet, it's the precursor to many cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC. This is why it's often referred to as the "mother cannabinoid."
Furthermore, CBG has a similar molecular weight and mass to CBD. This is why it is believed to share many of the same properties with CBD. Moreover, unlike CBD and THC, which are produced by the trichomes of the cannabis plant, CBG is obtained differently. In fact, it is derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). CBGA, in turn, is converted through decarboxylation to produce other cannabinoids, such as THCA and CBDA.
The popularity of CBG-based products has increased considerably, with a global market value estimated at USD 8.33 billion in 2023 and a projected compound annual growth (CAGR) of 22% until 2033 (GlobeNewswire).
Recent studies on cannabigerol
Here are some recent studies and their findings on the effects and therapeutic applications of CBG:
- Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Properties: A study synthesized three new CBG derivatives, demonstrating their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Furthermore, one of the derivatives, HUM-234, showed potential effects in preventing obesity in mice fed a high-fat diet. This research suggests that CBG and its derivatives could be developed as new drug candidates to treat metabolic and inflammatory conditions (MDPIs).
- Synergistic Effects with Curcumin and Piperine: Another study explored the synergistic effects of CBG combined with curcumin and piperine on colon cancer cells. The results showed that this combination could have anti-tumorigenic effects by activating the Hippo YAP signaling pathway in certain cancer cell lines. This opens up possibilities for combination therapies using CBG in the treatment of colon cancer (Frontiers).
- Antibiotic Properties: Researchers have discovered that CBG possesses potent antibiotic properties, particularly against MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections. CBG has been shown to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms and directly kill MRSA bacteria. This study indicates that CBG could be an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics, especially for drug-resistant infections (HealthMJ).
- Skin Health: A study evaluated the effects of CBG on skin health, demonstrating that CBG could reduce levels of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines in human skin models. A clinical trial with topical application of CBG serum showed a significant improvement in transepidermal water loss and a reduction in skin redness induced by sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) (MDPI).
These studies show a growing interest in CBG as a potential therapeutic compound, with applications in the treatment of inflammation, pain, obesity, bacterial infections, and skin conditions.
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Effects and benefits of CBG
Like other cannabinoids, CBG exhibits a wide range of properties. The most promising are its anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, therapeutic, and antibacterial properties. With this enormous potential, CBG can be used to alleviate several conditions.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections are mostly benign. However, when left untreated, complications can arise. In this regard, CBG may be indicated. It is believed to have the ability to eliminate resistant bacteria.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease, known to be a leading cause of blindness. For patients suffering from this disease, the research being conducted is quite promising. CBG appears to have the ability to reduce pressure within the eye, thereby preventing damage to the sciatic nerve.
Inflammation
CBG shares anti-inflammatory properties with CBD. These properties make it effective in treating inflammation of the skin and internal organs. Furthermore, CBG is said to be exceptionally effective in calming intestinal inflammation.
What is CBN (Cannabinol)?
Cannabinol, also known as CBN, was the first cannabinoid to be studied. Discovered in the late 1800s, this cannabinoid was first synthesized with remarkable success in 1940. While most other cannabinoids occur naturally in hemp plants, this is not the case for CBN. Instead, cannabinol is produced as a result of the breakdown of THC. This occurs, in particular, when cannabis plants are subjected to high heat.
Furthermore, cannabinol is believed to possess some psychoactive properties. Although these are negligible compared to those of THC, they are what distinguishes CBN from other cannabinoids. Similarly, in combination with sleep-inducing plants, CBN is said to have a very intense sedative effect. This is why it is highly valued by insomniacs. Finally, CBN exhibits other interesting properties.
It is said to be effective for bone growth, pain relief, inflammation reduction, and immunosuppression.
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Properties and effects of CBN
Numerous studies have been conducted on the potential benefits of CBN. And like CBD and CBG, this cannabinoid is effective in treating a multitude of conditions.
Pain relief
CBN has proven very effective in relieving pain, especially muscular pain. It also inhibits muscle relaxation, making it a very beneficial product for treating conditions like fibromyalgia. Finally, its effectiveness is further enhanced when combined with CBD and THC.
Osteoporosis
CBN has shown promise in the treatment of osteoporosis. It may promote bone cell regeneration and growth. These actions facilitate the healing of fractures and bone-related diseases such as arthritis.
Inflammation
Like its predecessors, CBN possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Recent studies on CBN
Here are some recent studies and their findings on the effects and therapeutic applications of CBN:
- Effects on Sleep: A randomized, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of CBN alone and in combination with CBD on sleep quality. The results showed that CBN could prolong sleep time in mice. Participants who took CBN alone experienced little effect on sleepiness, but those who took CBN combined with THC reported increased sleepiness. This study suggests that CBN, especially in combination with other cannabinoids, may help improve sleep, although further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans (Sleep Foundation) (Psychology Today).
- Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Properties : CBN has demonstrated analgesic capabilities by influencing the activity of neurons sensitive to capsaicin, a component of chili peppers that is used in many topical analgesics. Furthermore, like CBD, CBN possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it promising for the treatment of inflammatory diseases (Psychology Today).
- Antibacterial Properties: A study revealed that CBN has the ability to fight bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). CBN not only prevented the formation of bacterial biofilms, but it also killed MRSA bacteria, making it a potential alternative to traditional antibiotics, especially against drug-resistant infections (Psychology Today).
- Appetite Stimulation: Unlike CBD, which has appetite-suppressing effects, CBN appears to stimulate appetite. This could make CBN useful for people who have difficulty maintaining their appetite due to illness or medical treatment, such as cancer (Psychology Today).
- Glaucoma treatment: Studies have shown that CBN, like other cannabinoids, may be effective in treating glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure, which helps prevent damage to the optic nerve (Psychology Today).
These studies highlight a growing interest in CBN as a potential therapeutic compound with applications in the treatment of pain, inflammation, bacterial infections, sleep disorders, and glaucoma. However, it is important to note that while the results are promising, further research is needed to better understand the effects of CBN and confirm its efficacy and safety for various medical applications.
CBD vs CBG: what you need to know
CBD and CBG, viewed from a scientific perspective, deserve a side-by-side evaluation. These two cannabinoids share interesting similarities and differences.
Similarities
Both CBD and CBG can relieve pain . Similarly, these two cannabis derivatives have been shown to have antidepressant properties. Therefore, they are popular with patients seeking relief from anxiety and stress. Furthermore, both cannabinoids show promise in promoting better sleep quality. Specifically, they may help prevent sleep disorders, particularly insomnia. Regarding their commonalities, both compounds are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA).
These effects are produced when CBGA is exposed to light or heat. Finally, both cannabinoids appear to have similar side effects. While these are mild, they are generally observed in regular users. These effects are mostly dry mouth and drowsiness. Although uncommon, diarrhea is another potential side effect of both CBD and CBG.
The differences
The first difference is that CBG is present in a much lower percentage in the hemp plant than CBD. Synthesizing CBG is therefore more difficult and expensive. This is why there are far more products containing cannabidiol than those containing cannabigerol. Other differences between these two substances largely stem from the fact that CBG and CBD stimulate different parts of the endocannabinoid system.
CBD primarily interacts with TVRP1 receptors. These receptors are responsible for regulating pain perception, body temperature, and tissue inflammation. CBG, on the other hand, primarily interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are more involved in regulating the nervous and immune systems. This is what appears to allow CBG to alleviate neuropathic disorders such as Huntington's disease.
CBN vs CBD: an in-depth comparison
CBN and CBD share many properties. However, the fact that CBD is much easier to extract has made it more prominent than CBN among cannabinoid remedies. Here are some of the other differences and similarities between these two substances.
Similarities
CBN and CBD share undeniable common characteristics. Both compounds are derived from the same plant using the same extraction method. Indeed, to obtain CBN or CBD, the hemp must first be dried and aged. Regarding their applications, both substances have proven effective in relieving pain and inflammation. Furthermore, professionals believe that the judicious use of these products could reduce reliance on traditional medications.
Finally, and most importantly, these two cannabinoids do not produce the euphoric state associated with THC. This is what gives them their enviable reputation.
The differences
In terms of differences, CBD appears easier to extract than CBN. In fact, CBN, being less abundant in the plant, makes extraction more difficult. Similarly, CBD has a wider range of medical applications than CBN. This is because CBD has been extensively studied, unlike CBN. Research has shown that CBD promotes bone regeneration, making it a recommended product for people suffering from osteoporosis.
Furthermore, it shows significant potential in the treatment of epileptic seizures. Finally, studies conducted so far do not highlight the side effects of CBN. In contrast, CBD is known for its side effects, although they are generally mild.
CBG vs CBN: what you need to know
Unlike their counterpart, CBD, CBG and CBN have not generated immense excitement among the scientific community.
Similarities
The first similarity between CBG and CBN lies in their concentration in the hemp plant. These two cannabinoids are present in much lower amounts than CBD. Consequently, their distillation is more expensive. This is why the available data is relatively limited. Similarly, CBG and CBN share almost identical therapeutic potential.
More specifically, both substances show promising potential for pain relief, especially when combined with other cannabinoids. Both substances may also be able to reduce inflammation. Finally, CBG and CBN share the characteristic that neither has been extensively studied in a controlled setting. This lack of scientific interest is largely due to the fact that both cannabinoids are more complex and expensive to extract than cannabidiol.
The differences
The main differences between CBG and CBN relate to the conditions they can potentially help treat and the side effects observed with regular use. CBG has shown promise in treating various brain disorders, including Huntington's disease. It has also demonstrated potential antibacterial properties, particularly against microorganisms resistant to conventional antibiotics. Finally, CBG may provide some relief from the uncomfortable effects of glaucoma.
Cannabinol, on the other hand, does not possess these properties. In contrast, CBN has the potential to promote bone growth, particularly in patients suffering from the effects of aging and osteoporosis. CBN is also more appealing than CBG as a sedative, especially when combined with other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.
CBN vs CBD vs CBG: all together, now
From a scientific perspective, these three compounds appear to bind to different parts of the endocannabinoid system. CBN, in particular, presents a higher risk than the other two of triggering a psychoactive reaction. CBD, on the other hand, has a wider range of medical applications. This is partly due to the fact that CBD has generated considerable interest and, consequently, a greater amount of research.
Upon closer examination of CBN, scientists believe it would be more effective for pain relief, especially for those suffering from osteoporosis and arthritis. Furthermore, this substance could reduce pain-related insomnia. CBD, on the other hand, is better suited for those seeking relaxation and calmness. Finally, of the three compounds, CBG is thought to be ideal for individuals with neurological disorders. It could also help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with glaucoma. Unlike the other two, CBG is the only cannabinoid whose antibacterial properties counteract the effects of antibiotic-resistant microbes.
Studies on the simultaneous use of CBN, CBD and CBG
- Combined Effects of CBD and CBG: Several studies suggest that using CBD and CBG together may be more effective than using either cannabinoid individually. CBD is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, while CBG is valued for its energizing effects and pain-relieving capabilities. Together, these cannabinoids can provide an overall relaxation effect for the body and mind, which can be beneficial for managing pain, inflammation, anxiety, and stress. The entourage effect, where cannabis compounds act synergistically, is often cited to explain these enhanced benefits (Natural Ways CBD |) (Evn ).
- Interaction of Cannabinoids with the Endocannabinoid System: CBD and CBG interact with the endocannabinoid system in different ways. CBD modulates the production of endocannabinoids naturally produced by the body, while CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, thus influencing the regulation of pain and inflammation. Combining these two cannabinoids can therefore balance their respective effects, thus improving their overall efficacy (The CBDistillery) (CBD Glass Dispenser).
- Combined Effects of CBD, CBG, and CBN: While specific research on the simultaneous use of CBD, CBG, and CBN is limited, anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies suggest that this combination may offer significant therapeutic benefits. For example, CBN is known for its mild sedative properties and is often used to improve sleep. Combined with CBD and CBG, it may not only aid in relaxation and pain reduction but also improve sleep quality by alleviating pain that disrupts rest (CBD.market).
- Specific studies and results
- A study has revealed that combining CBG and CBD in full-spectrum products (which also include trace amounts of THC and other cannabinoids) maximizes the beneficial effects of each component through the entourage effect. These products are particularly effective at reducing pain and inflammation, and improving users' overall well-being (The CBDistillery).
- Another study showed that mixing CBN with other cannabinoids, such as CBD, could enhance the sedative effects of CBN, making it useful for people suffering from insomnia or pain-related sleep disorders (CBD Glass Dispenser).
Conclusion
The combined use of CBD, CBG, and CBN may offer broad therapeutic benefits, particularly for managing pain, inflammation, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The entourage effect, resulting from the interaction of multiple cannabinoids, maximizes the individual benefits of each component, thus providing a more comprehensive solution for various health issues. However, further research is needed to better understand the specific interactions and optimize dosages for diverse therapeutic applications.
Editor-in-Chief specializing in CBD
Julien, born on July 17, 1978, in the Paris region, is a prominent writer and expert in the field of CBD products. Following his studies, Julien developed a passion for natural remedies, including CBD. In 2022, he joined the CBD.fr team as an expert and regular contributor. Thanks to his scientific expertise and clear writing style, Julien helps demystify the complexities of CBD, while highlighting its benefits and potential applications through his articles and conference presentations.
