As the medical cannabis industry grows and more specifically within the realms of cannabinoids, what kind of insights can we gather? Well, firstly, there are a few cannabinoids that are popular and frequently used whereas others are just starting out. CBD has been the holy grail for quite some time, but recently, other cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBC, and more are making an entrance.
In this blog, we will discuss the main differences between CBD, CBN, and CBG and that’ll help you better understand which cannabinoids are best for you.
Firstly, what are cannabinoids?
They are plant phytocompounds found within the cannabis sativa hemp plant. There are at least 113 cannabinoids within this plant all with different purposes and benefits to our bodies.
Why are cannabinoids capable of affecting our bodies?
We all have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that produces its own endocannabinoids which interacts with various organs and organ systems to modulate activity and function ultimately encouraging balance (homeostasis). Our ECS can be thought of like a series of highways communicating with each other to affect the way our bodies act and react to internal and external changes.
What is CBD and what is it good for?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is the cannabinoid you’re probably most familiar with. It is found within the flowers of the hemp plant and is not psychoactive. It is widely known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also great at managing the symptoms of cognitive ailments like anxiety and depression. ReThink’s various products are focused on broad spectrum CBD delivering an array of benefits! Whether you need topical treatments for inflammation or more potent CBD concentrations for chronic conditions, we have it all.
CBN, short for cannabinol, is a fellow cannabinoid also found within the hemp plant. It is also non intoxicating, so it doesn’t induce a ‘high’. Of course, cannabinoids in general are anti-inflammatory but CBN is known for more niche benefits such as helping with appetite stimulation and acting as an anti-microbial and neuroprotectant. What’s special with CBN is the way it is created. CBN is found in higher quantities within older hemp plants because it is formed as THC ages within the same hemp plant. One of our newest products contains both CBD and CBN: our sleep & recharge gel capsules!
What is CBG and what is it good for?
CBG, short for cannabigerol, is another cannabinoid also found within the hemp plant. CBG is special in the way it interacts with our ECS. Unlike CBD which solely interacts with ECS receptors on an indirect level, CBG has direct mechanisms with our CB1 and CB2 ECS receptors, specifically in the brain. It is also known as the mother of all cannabinoids since its acidic form, CBGA is the precursor for all other cannabinoids. Without CBG, CBD wouldn’t be possible! THC, the compound known to induce a ‘high’ also has direct interaction with our CB receptors. The difference with CBG is that it acts like an antidote to psychoactive effects. Some studies show that it can have anti-paranoia effects, making it a powerful cannabinoid for anxiety and other mental afflictions. It can also be great for glaucoma as it can act as a neuroprotectant. This means that CBG could also be a suitable option for those with neurodegenerative conditions. Recent studies are conducting experiments on CBG’s effect on cancer cells and so far, the results are promising, so let’s keep our fingers crossed!
We hope that this blog has helped you better understand the difference between various cannabinoids and what they’re good for. Head on over to our website to learn more and browse our different products! With all this info now, which cannabinoid do you think is best for you?
