CBG Isolate
Also known as: CBG, CBG isolate, cannabigerol, Cannabigerol
Overview
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant, often referred to as the "mother cannabinoid" due to its role as a precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. CBG isolate is a pure form of this compound, used in supplements and for research purposes. Emerging research suggests potential therapeutic applications for CBG, including anxiety reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, and benefits for gastrointestinal disorders. While promising, most evidence is currently preclinical (animal and in vitro studies), with human clinical trials still limited. The quality of evidence is moderate, with a recent first-in-human randomized controlled trial (RCT) providing initial insights into its effects in humans.
Benefits
CBG shows several potential benefits, though human clinical data are still emerging. A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) indicated that CBG significantly reduced subjective anxiety by 26.5% on a 10-point scale compared to a 22.5% reduction with placebo, demonstrating a modest but statistically significant anxiolytic effect without causing intoxication or impairment. Preclinical animal studies have highlighted CBG's anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in models of colitis, where it reduced intestinal inflammation markers like myeloperoxidase activity and oxidative stress. Furthermore, in vitro and animal studies suggest neuroprotective effects, with CBG potentially shielding neurons from amyloid β-induced toxicity, which could be relevant for neurodegenerative conditions. Pharmacokinetic studies in rodents have also shown rapid absorption and brain penetration, suggesting its ability to act centrally. While these findings are promising, the effect sizes in human studies are modest, and larger, more robust clinical trials are needed to fully validate these benefits and determine their clinical significance.
How it works
CBG exerts its effects through interaction with multiple biological pathways. It acts as a partial agonist or modulator at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, which is believed to contribute to its observed anxiolytic properties. Additionally, CBG may modulate GABAergic neurotransmission, further supporting its potential to reduce anxiety and stress. Its anti-inflammatory actions are thought to involve the reduction of neutrophil infiltration and oxidative stress markers in affected tissues. Neuroprotective mechanisms may include the inhibition of amyloid β toxicity and modulation of ion channels. Importantly, CBG has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier, with favorable brain/plasma ratios in rodent studies, indicating its ability to reach the central nervous system and exert its effects there.
Side effects
CBG appears to be generally well-tolerated, with no reported intoxication or impairment in the limited human trials conducted to date. However, due to the nascent stage of human clinical research, the full spectrum of common side effects is not yet well-documented. There have been no reports of serious adverse events in controlled studies. Specific drug interactions and contraindications have not been definitively established, and caution is advised, especially for individuals on other medications, until more comprehensive clinical safety data become available. As with any supplement, individual responses may vary, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting CBG, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage
Human dosing guidelines for CBG are preliminary and not yet well-established. The recent randomized controlled trial that observed anxiolytic effects used doses sufficient to produce measurable outcomes, but specific dosage amounts were not detailed in the available summary. Animal studies investigating anti-inflammatory effects have utilized doses around 30 mg/kg. It's important to note that oral bioavailability of CBG appears to be low in preclinical models, suggesting that alternative delivery routes might enhance its systemic exposure and efficacy. Optimal dosing, timing of administration, and the most effective formulation for various therapeutic purposes require further extensive clinical research. Users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, as upper limits and safety thresholds in humans are still under investigation.
FAQs
Is CBG psychoactive?
No, CBG is not psychoactive. It does not produce psychotomimetic effects or cause intoxication, as confirmed by preliminary human studies.
How quickly does CBG act?
Animal studies indicate a rapid absorption with peak plasma concentrations (Tmax) occurring between 30 and 120 minutes. Human data suggest acute effects on anxiety can be observed within hours.
Is CBG safe?
Preliminary evidence suggests good tolerability in humans, with no serious adverse events reported. However, more extensive human safety data are needed to fully assess its long-term safety profile and potential interactions.
Will CBG cause a positive drug test?
It is unlikely, as CBG is non-psychoactive and distinct from THC. However, due to potential for trace contaminants in some products or cross-reactivity, it cannot be entirely ruled out without specific testing.
Research Sources
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66879-0 – This randomized controlled trial investigated the acute effects of CBG on anxiety and mood in humans. It found a statistically significant reduction in subjective anxiety ratings (26.5% vs. 22.5% for placebo) without causing intoxication or impairment. The study highlights CBG's potential as an anxiolytic but notes limitations such as the lack of effect on STAI subscales and the need for replication in larger cohorts.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9666035/ – This pharmacokinetic study in rodents evaluated CBG absorption, brain penetration, and elimination following oral and intraperitoneal administration. It revealed rapid absorption with superior bioavailability via the intraperitoneal route, with Tmax ranging from 30 to 120 minutes and a half-life of 2–24 hours. This research provides crucial foundational data for understanding CBG's systemic behavior and informing future dosing strategies.
- https://www.milehighlabs.com/comprehensive-review-of-cannabigerol-cbg/ – This comprehensive review summarizes various preclinical findings on CBG, highlighting its potential neuroprotective, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It emphasizes the need for more human clinical trials and detailed mechanistic studies to translate these promising preclinical observations into clinical applications. The review serves as a good overview of CBG's broad therapeutic potential.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11597810/ – This preclinical animal study investigated the effects of CBG in a colitis model. It demonstrated that CBG, at a dose of 30 mg/kg, significantly reduced neutrophil infiltration (measured by MPO activity) and restored antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD). These findings suggest that CBG possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties relevant to gastrointestinal health, supporting its potential therapeutic use in inflammatory bowel conditions, though human trials are required.
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