CBD regales your body and mind with its soothing properties, anti-inflammatory effects and pain-relieving action? Why not complement your consumption of legal cannabis with CBG, a non-psychotropic molecule that perfectly complements CBD's profile?
In this practical guide, the 321CBD team tells you all you need to know about cannabigerol, the molecule that gives rise to all the other cannabinoids in the hemp plant!
What is CBG?
An unknown cannabinoid? Not really. CBG is part of cannabis' golden quartet, along with CBD, CBC and CBN. It's a far cry from shady molecules like HHC, THCV or THCP. Let's take a closer look at this cannabinoid.
CBG: the parent "molecule" of all cannabinoids
CBG, or cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found naturally in the hemp plant, particularly the Cannabis L. Sativa and Cannabis Indica varieties.
Why "mother molecule"? Simply because CBG is the original cannabinoid, since many cannabinoids such as CBD and THC are first synthesized by the hemp plant in the form of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is the acid form of CBG.
As a non-psychotropic cannabinoid, CBG promotes well-being and quality of life. It's true that the scientific literature on this molecule is much less extensive than that on CBD, but certain properties have already been proven:
Analgesic effects, like all cannabinoids. CBG is a good analgesic, helping to relieve acute and chronic pain of mild to moderate intensity;
Anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for muscles, joints and skin (for topical CBG products);
Neuroprotective properties, such as CBN, make it a promising molecule in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's);
Antibacterial action, particularly against gram-positive strains such as Staphylococcus aureus. The mechanism of action of CBG against bacteria is not yet understood. The most credible hypothesis suggests cannabigerol's ability to prevent bacteria from forming biofilms and spreading.
CBG and CBD: the main differences
CBG and CBD are related. CBG is synthesized from cannabigerolic acid or CBGA, which is the precursor of many other cannabinoids. As the cannabis plant grows, CBGA is gradually converted into THCA, CBD(A) and CBC(A) by various enzymes. The unconverted CBGA residue is then decarboxylated by heat to form CBG.
In terms of chemical structure, and without going into too much technical detail, the difference between CBG and CBD lies mainly in the orientation of the hydroxyl group. This arrangement has an impact on the way these two cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS):
CBG acts directly on CB1 and CB2 receptors, but remains a weak antagonist compared to THC, which explains the absence of any psychotropic effect;
CBD has very low affinity with CB1 and CB2 receptors. It is more of an allosteric modulator.
These differences also have an impact on the current or potential medical and therapeutic applications of these two molecules:
CBG: inflammatory bowel diseases (such as irritable bowel syndrome), glaucoma and certain forms of cancer;
CBD: epilepsy, anxiety and chronic pain resistant to conventional analgesics.
The final difference is that CBG is present in small quantities in the cannabis plant, making it rarer and therefore more expensive. We are, however, witnessing the emergence of modified cannabis varieties that are specially cultivated for their higher CBG content. CBD, on the other hand, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis, notably in industrial hemp. It is therefore inevitably cheaper to buy.
Despite these differences, CBG and CBD are similar in one essential respect: unlike THC, they produce no psychotropic effect and do not impair your cognitive abilities.
How to choose quality CBG products?
Criteria for choosing your CBG oils
CBG oils are less common than CBD oils. So you'll have less choice... but that doesn't mean you have to skimp on quality. Here are the criteria to consider when buying your CBG oil:
Extraction method: prefer CO2 supercritical extraction, which preserves the integrity of cannabinoids and terpenes. Solvent extraction is acceptable (ethanol or butane), but may leave a few traces which will affect the purity of the product (without being harmful);
Hemp source: Ideally, opt for CBG oils derived from hemp plants grown without pesticides or herbicides;
Cannabinoid spectrum: for an optimal analgesic, soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, opt for a full-spectrum hemp oil, which contains all the plant's cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids (< 0.3% THC). You'll benefit from the "entourage" effect that boosts hemp's virtues;
Manufacturer transparency: choose brands that provide clear and transparent information on their production process, the source of their hemp and the results of laboratory tests. We've done the work for you: our catalog of CBD and CBG oils is made up exclusively of serious, rigorous manufacturers;
Carrier oils must be of food-grade quality (MCT oil or olive oil in particular);
Packaging: CBG oils are best packaged in amber or opaque glass bottles to protect them from light and oxidation.
What you need to know about CBG flowers and resins
For flowers and resins, which are generally concentrated formats, CBG is extracted from young cannabis plants, as its concentration drops sharply as the plant matures and CBGA is transformed into other cannabinoids. Overall, the earlier the plant is harvested, the higher its CBG concentration. If you have the information, prefer CBG flowers and resins from young crops.
As with oils, if you have the opportunity, choose CBG flowers and resins that have been grown organically or, at the very least, without the use of pesticides.
If you're shopping in a physical store, be aware that good quality CBG flowers are brightly coloured, with no signs of excessive browning, which usually indicates poor storage. The trichomes, small crystalline structures on the surface, should be clearly visible. They contain the flower's cannabinoids and terpenes.
As a general rule, good CBG flowers have transparent or milky-white trichomes. If they're amber or brown, the flower is overripe... not a problem in itself, but as CBG is mainly found in young flowers, you'll probably get more CBD than CBG.
Good CBG resins have a rather light, luminous color, a sign of a pure, well-processed and, above all, well-stored product.
Where to buy CBG in France?
Consumers wishing to buy CBG in the form of flowers, oils or even legal resins can turn to online stores such as 321CBD, as well as physical stores specializing in wellness products, tobacconists and even some supermarkets that offer a few hemp products in the "parapharmacy" sections.
The best CBG Shops online
321CBD, the reference for cannabinoids in France
CBG, CBD, CBN, CBC... all the non-psychotropic cannabinoids are on 321CBD! We offer hemp products from the best Indoor, Outdoor and Greenhouse crops in France, Italy and Switzerland. Our range of hemp flowers includes over sixty references, compared with an average of just twenty from our competitors. You'll find great CBG-packed strains and cannabigerol oils at smart prices, with free delivery and no minimum purchase. Treat yourself!
The Greenstore, an interesting range of CBG products
This online store offers hash, gummies, some oils and e-liquids with varying concentrations of CBG. You'll mainly find CBG products from Greeneo, Waxx, Evielab and Stilla. This online boutique boasts 85,000 customers and offers a 24 to 48-hour delivery service anywhere in mainland France.
CBD Grams, own-brand hemp oils
CBD Grams is a hemp products brand developing a range of CBD-dominant full-spectrum oils, with a few CBN and CBG-packed references, including "Alliance" oil, which contains CBD and CBG obtained by CO distillation2 and combined with MCT coconut oil.
Buying CBG: criteria to consider for a secure purchase
Interested in buying CBG online? Here are the criteria to consider when choosing your hemp products supplier:
Consult independent third-party sites such as Trustpilot for seller reviews. These are less likely to be manipulated;
Make sure your CBG supplier offers the usual secure payment methods, including recognized credit/debit cards and payment services such as PayPal. Look for security indicators such as the padlock in the address bar when making a payment. Avoid untraceable payment methods such as direct transfers or cryptocurrencies if you are unsure of the seller's reliability;
CBG products should have quality certifications or accreditations from independent laboratories;
Make sure the site address begins with "https://" and not "http://". The "s" indicates a secure connection. Check that you have a valid SSL certificate, indicated by a padlock in your browser's address bar (this is the case on our site);
A reliable site will provide clear information on its return, refund and privacy policies. Read these policies to understand your rights as a consumer. Please click here;
Products should be accompanied by detailed descriptions, including CBG concentration, ingredients, instructions for use and any warnings;
Don't hesitate to contact customer service if you have any questions about products or site policies. A quick, informative response is a good sign of reliability. You can call us free of charge Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm, then 2pm to 5pm.
Is CBG legal in France?
Yes, CBG is legal in France, provided it is in a product that respects the THC threshold limit of 0.3% and complies with ANSM health and safety standards. The spirit of the law is clear: all cannabinoids can be freely marketed and consumed as long as they present no psychotropic effects or risk of addiction, in accordance with article R5132 - 86 of the French Public Health Code.
Buying CBG: consumer testimonials and expert advice
Personal experiences with CBG
As is often the case, it's in American forums that we find the most real and reliable testimonials on non-CBD cannabinoids. Here's a small selection of personal experiences, with links to the threads if you'd like to read the exchanges.
"CBG is my cannabinoid of choice for treating chronic pain, inflammation and neurological damage from lupus and a series of strokes" (source).
"In my experience, CBG is kind of the same thing as CBD, but it seems to have a more mood-boosting effect" (source).
"CBG really helps me wake up, especially with a little CBC to multiply the effects. My husband describes it as 'uplifting', while relieving pain and mental fatigue" (source).
"I suffer from an illness that causes chronic pain and occasional inflammation, as well as an anxiety disorder. After trying CBG last week, I have to say I'm extremely impressed. The pain is much reduced, I'd say by at least 40-50%" (source).
"CBG works. I had terrible tendonitis in my elbow from climbing and it healed like a miracle after 1,000 mg of CBG oil drops" (source).
Our expert advice on CBG use
As always with cannabinoids, we'll start with a conservative dosage if you've never taken CBG before. We recommend starting with 5 mg once a day. If you don't experience any undesirable side-effects and the desired effects aren't forthcoming, increase to 10 mg after a week.
If you feel the benefits of CBG without any side effects, stick to this dose. Otherwise, you can increase the dose by a further 5 mg the following week, until you reach the maximum recommended dose of 30 mg.
As for the administration method, it all depends on your needs:
To relieve acute symptoms, such as sharp pain or intense stress: opt for the sublingual route, by placing a few drops of CBG oil under the tongue for one minute. CBG quickly enters the bloodstream for almost immediate effects. If you prefer CBG flowers, opt for vaporization, which also produces rapid effects.
For gradual, longer-lasting effects: if you want to treat inflammation or chronic pain, or improve the quality of your sleep, opt instead for oral intake (CBG capsules, capsules or oils). This method releases CBG's effects more slowly and over a longer period of time.
FAQ about buying CBG online
What is CBG?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is a cannabinoid naturally present in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it has no psychoactive properties. It is highly prized for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Is CBG legal in France?
In France, CBG is legal as long as it is marketed in products containing no more than 0.3% THC.
Where can I buy CBG online in France?
You can stock up on good CBG from online stores like 321CBD, in physical stores specializing in wellness and relaxation, or from certain tobacconists.
What are the effects of CBG?
CBG reduces inflammation, relieves mild to moderate pain and is also said to have neuroprotective and antibacterial effects. The mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood by science.
How do I use CBG?
CBG can be consumed in a variety of forms, including oil, capsules or vaporized flowers. The method of administration depends on personal preference and the desired effect. For rapid action, the sublingual route or vaporization is recommended, while oral consumption provides gradual, longer-lasting effects.
Are there any side effects associated with CBG consumption?
CBG is generally very well tolerated, but like any supplement, it can produce mild side effects, including drowsiness or temporary bloating. Start with a low dose to assess your tolerance.
How can I be sure that my CBG online purchase is secure?
To ensure the safety of your online purchase, choose sites with reliable security protocols, read their privacy and returns policies carefully, and use secure payment methods such as credit cards and PayPal. All these conditions are met on 321CBD.
