CBG vs CBD or is it CBD vs CBG? How do these Cannabinoids Stack Up?
You’ve probably heard of CBD, but recently, CBG has been making waves leaving many people wondering, what’s really difference between these two? While they may sound similar and both come from cannabis, CBG and CBD are far from the same. Each offers its own unique benefits and understanding how both work can help you decide the best route for you.
But here’s the truth: in the ever expanding world of cannabis, it’s not just about the cannabinoid. The real magic is found in the strain, its terpene profile, and the quality of the product you choose.
The Basics: What is CBG and CBD?
Cannabis is packed with compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with your body to produce various effects. Two of the most well-known cannabinoids are CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol), but they are far from the same.
Think of CBG as the “starter” cannabinoid because it’s the foundation that other cannabinoids like CBD and THC are made from as the plant grows. When the cannabis plant is young, it produces CBGA, which eventually turns into CBD and THC as the plant matures. Some plants are specially grown to keep higher levels of CBG giving us a better chance to explore its unique benefits.
CBD is more common and known for its relaxing effects and for managing stress, anxiety, and pain.
But let’s not overlook the potential for CBD to also be uplifting! Depending on the combination of strain and terpenes, CBD can help relieve anxiety while keeping you clear headed and energized when paired with terpenes like limonene.
Ultimately, both cannabinoids work best when combined with the right terpenes, making the strain and its profile key to your experience.
What is CBG vs CBD?
Both CBG and CBD interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is a network of receptors that helps regulate our most essential functions like mood, sleep, pain, and immune response. Although, they each do this in slightly different ways, which is why their effects can vary.
CBD works indirectly with the receptors in your ECS. Instead of binding directly to these receptors, CBD influences them by enhancing the body’s natural endocannabinoids and preventing their breakdown. This indirect approach allows CBD to promote balance in areas like mood, stress response, and pain management without causing any psychoactive effects.
CBG, on the other hand, takes a more direct route. It binds directly to both receptors, giving it a stronger, more targeted effect. This direct interaction allows CBG to influence specific bodily functions more powerfully, which is why it’s often associated with sharper focus, reduced inflammation, and brain health support.
CBG Effects and Terpenes
One of the key factors that set CBG and CBD products apart is their terpene profiles. Terpenes are natural compounds found in cannabis that contribute to the plant’s aroma and flavor, but they also have therapeutic effects. The combination of terpenes and cannabinoids plays a huge role in how these products work in the body.
While CBG and CBD interact differently with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), terpenes can enhance or balance their effects. For example:
In a CBD-rich strain, calming terpenes like myrcene can amplify CBD’s relaxing properties, making it ideal for anxiety relief or sleep support.
In a CBG-rich strain, the same terpenes may still promote relaxation, but paired with CBG's more direct action on receptors, they can also offer mental clarity and focus without sedation.
For example, a CBD strain high in myrcene might promote relaxation and sleep, while a CBG strain rich in limonene could provide an energy boost and enhance focus. Understanding the terpene profile of your CBG or CBD product can help you choose the right one for your needs.
What does CBG do?
When it comes to CBG and CBD, product quality is key to unlocking their full potential. Not all products are created using the same standards, and the difference between a mediocre experience and a truly effective one often comes down to a few simple yet critical factors.
CBG Benefits: Why Strains Matter
The strain and its terpene profile heavily influence how a product will affect you. Some strains are rich in calming terpenes like myrcene, while others may be more uplifting with terpenes like limonene. Always check the terpene content to ensure it aligns with your wellness goals.
Whole Flower CBG vs. Whole Plant CBG
Understanding the difference between whole plant CBG and whole flower is crucial. Whole plant extracts include all parts of the plant (stems, leaves, and stalks) which often dilutes the quality of the cannabinoids. Whole flower products on the other hand are made using only the best part of the plant (the flower) where the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes is found.
Opting for whole flower ensures you're getting the most potent and pure extract!
Clean CBG Farming Practices
High-quality products come from plants grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. Look for brands that use organic and sustainable farming practices to ensure that the cannabinoids and terpenes remain pure and untainted by harmful chemicals.
Solvent-Free Infusion Methods
How your CBG or CBD is infused plays a big role in the final product. Look for products that use solvent-free infusion methods, such as whole-flower infusion, which preserve the plant’s full cannabinoid and terpene profile without introducing harmful chemicals.
Third-Party Testing
Look for brands that provide transparency with third-party testing. Always look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify potency, purity, and safety.
Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate
Decide whether you want a full-spectrum product, which contains a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes working together for the entourage effect, or a CBD/CBG isolate that focuses on one cannabinoid. Full-spectrum products often deliver a more enhanced, balanced experience.
The Whole Flower CBG Difference
At Vermont Whole Flower, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality CBG and CBD products. With our commitment to using whole flower extracts, organic farming practices, and solvent-free methods, you can trust that you’re getting the best nature has to offer. As more research unfolds and the benefits of cannabinoids continue to emerge, the choice between CBG and CBD is no longer a matter of one versus the other and more about finding the right balance for you.
CBD or CBG?
Choosing between CBG and CBD comes down to what you’re looking for. Are you seeking relief from stress and anxiety? Or maybe you’re after mental clarity and focus?
The key is finding the right balance of strain, terpene profile, and product quality to achieve your desired experience.