What Does Research Indicate About CBG So Far?
Cannabigerol (CBG) shows promising medicinal potential in early scientific research.
Simple Leaf Staff
As interest grows around benefits of cannabis plant compounds, a lesser-known cannabinoid called cannabigerol (CBG) shows Promising Medicinal Potential in early scientific inquiries.
An overview of CBG research
CBG represents the chemical precursor to other cannabinoids like the popular CBD and THC, playing an important role early in the cannabis growth cycle. But unlike its more famous cousins, research into CBG’s unique pharmacological effects remains in early stages.
Does existing data support growing hype around CBG’s therapeutic possibilities? Or does insufficient evidence exist so far to justify claims about its medicinal utility in humans? Examining the current science provides grounded perspective.
Background on Cannabinoids and Relevant Research
Cannabinoids make up one of the most scrutinized classes of plant compounds, largely due to psychoactive THC being the main active ingredient in marijuana. But alongside recreational use, revived appreciation of cannabis’ ancient therapeutic role motivates formal study of its over 100 different cannabinoids.
Scientists focus inquiry on those like CBG that appear non-intoxicating while interacting with the mammalian endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS regulates various processes in humans like pain, mood, inflammation, and more. Early evidence suggests supplemental phytocannabinoids (from plants) may help modulate ECS signaling circuits. But most data involve other prominent options, especially CBD and THC.
Preclinical CBG Research Demonstrating Potential
In contrast, CBG research makes up only a tiny fraction of publications on cannabinoids. However, insights trickling out consistently grab attention based on hints of wide-ranging therapeutic potential.
For example, a 2022 study found CBG demonstrated significant antibacterial qualities against certain drug-resistant bacteria both in dish experiments and mouse models. Researchers noted particular efficacy against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at doses non-toxic to mammalian cells. MRSA leads to dangerous infections, particularly in healthcare settings.
Earlier preclinical investigations also revealed hopeful neurological and gastrointestinal indications:
- A 2020 paper reported CBG protected rat brain cell cultures against Huntington’s disease toxins and excessive inflammation Johnston, T. P., & Howlett, A. C. (2020). Cannabinoid Pharmacology and Therapy in Experimental Models of Movement Disorders. Handbook of Cannabis and Related Pathologies, 704-713..
- 2018 research described CBG improving signs and symptoms in a mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s. Pagano, Ester et al. “A Novel Phytocannabinoid Isolated from Cannabis sativa L. with an In Vivo Cannabimimetic Activity Higher than Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabiphorol.” JNJ-39218603 as a Novel Jak2 Inhibitor, U.S. National Library of Medicine
The studies above involved purified CBG extracts, helping isolate effects from other cannabinoid variables. Findings align with anecdotal benefits reported by early adopters using CBG supplements for gastrointestinal conditions or neurodegenerative diseases. But again, human data remains extremely limited.
Cautions Regarding Human Trials
A 2021 clinical safety and pharmacokinetics trial stands as one of very few reported human CBG studies so far. Healthy adult volunteers used standardized oral CBG capsules daily for two weeks. Authors deemed the purified CBG well-tolerated without severe side effects at used doses. Adverse reactions were generally mild (GI discomfort, headache) and deemed unlikely from CBG itself.
This first step for testing purified, clinically trialed CBG upends typical cannabinoid research progression from preclinical to human stages. Normally long-term animal toxicology studies would precede human trials. Bypassing this allows potential therapeutic access but limits scientific understanding of pharmacodynamics.
And while standardization normalizes variables, CBG isolates used diverge from whole-plant concoctions most consumers actually purchase. Experts criticize hype around benefits of such retail offerings given so little verification of composition, dosing reliability, or contamination risks that regulation could curb through vetted supply chains.
Ongoing Challenges Studying Cannabinoids
Cannabinoid options face steep barriers entering mainstream medicine – CBG included. Lingering legal constraints, funding limitations, supply inconsistencies and stigma all slowed progress for decades already.
While curiosity continues growing around compounds like CBG, researchers emphasize properly demonstrating efficacy and safety to justify consumer access or therapeutic claims remains years away under best circumstances. Responsible voices call for openness but patience as understanding keeps developing through rigorous science.
Despite exciting hints at CBG’s prospects, available evidence cannot yet support most marketing rhetoric or guide physician recommendations in clinical practice. Yet better designed investigations underway bring hope that future certainties might confirm or deny budding hypotheses around cannabinoids’ healing potential. For now, optimism must bow to due diligence as expansion of knowledge inches forward.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
