Cannabigerol (CBG) is a compound found in cannabis plants that is gaining attention for its potential health benefits. Young plants have an abundance of CBG. As the plant matures, the CBG breaks down into several compounds, including CBD, THC and CBC. This is why CBG is often referred to as the ‘stem cell’ of the cannabis plant.
Some of the known or potential benefits of CBG include:
1. Neuroprotectant: CBG is being studied as a neuroprotectant. It may help protect nerve cells from damage or degeneration, and is being studied for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
2. Digestive health: CBG has shown promising digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, which could make it useful in managing digestive conditions characterized by inflammation such as inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS).
3. Antimicrobial: CBG has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against various strains of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). This suggests that CBG may have potential as an antibacterial agent.
4. Pain relief: CBG has been reported to have analgesic (pain-relieving) effects, which could make it beneficial for managing chronic pain conditions.
5. Antioxidant: CBG has been found to have antioxidant properties, which means it may help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and protect cells from oxidative damage. This could have potential benefits for overall health and well-being.
6. Anti-cancer: Some studies suggest that CBG may have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and promoting apoptosis (cell death) in certain types of cancer cells, such as colon cancer and breast cancer cells. However, more research is needed to fully understand its potential in cancer treatment.
Supporting articles and studies:
HealthMed, CBG and IBS: What Does the New Evidence Say?, March 25, 2021, by John Astran