CBG vs CBD: The complete comparison of the two cannabinoids

However, CBG and CBD represent only a portion of the chemical spectrum of the hemp plant. The world of cannabinoids encompasses a multitude of other compounds found in hemp. CBG, in particular, serves as a precursor for other cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. The hemp plant contains numerous cannabinoids, each with distinct properties and potential.

CBG and CBD in direct comparison: The most important differences

The key difference between CBG and CBD lies in their position within the cannabinoid hierarchy and their availability in the hemp plant. CBG is considered the "mother cannabinoid" because cannabigerol is the biochemical precursor from which CBD, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCa) develop during plant maturation.

Characteristic	CBG (Cannabigerol)	CBD (Cannabidiol)
Concentration in the plant	Approximately 1% (minor cannabinoid)	Approximately 20% (major cannabinoid)
Receptor binding	Direct binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors	Indirect modulation of the endocannabinoid system
State of research	Early developmental phase, growing	Extensively researched, established
Availability	Limited, more expensive	Widely available, cheaper
Harvest window	Early flowering phase	Mature cannabis plants

The classification as a minor or major cannabinoid has far-reaching consequences for price and availability. To obtain higher quantities of CBG, cannabis plants must be harvested at an early stage of development – before enzymatic processes convert the CBG into other cannabinoids. This characteristic generally makes CBG products more expensive than comparable CBD products.

Legally, both substances are treated equally in Germany: Both CBD and CBG are legally available as long as the THC content is below 0.3%. This regulation allows you free access to both phytocannabinoids without legal restrictions.

How CBG and CBD work in the body: How they differ

CBG and CBD interact with your endocannabinoid system in fundamentally different ways – a difference that significantly determines their respective effects. While CBG binds directly to cannabinoid receptors, CBD modulates the system indirectly by influencing the body's own compounds. Both cannabinoids can also affect other receptors and systems in the body. Learn more about the effects of CBG.

CBG: The direct route to the receptors

Cannabigerol (CBG) has a molecular structure that allows it to bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain. These binding mechanisms are similar to those of THC, but do not produce psychoactive effects. The direct interaction with CB1 receptors explains CBG's potential for cognitive focus and attention.

Additionally, CBG acts as a potent agonist at α2-adrenoceptor sites, activating its sedative and analgesic properties. At 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, CBG exhibits moderate antagonistic activity – another mechanism of action affecting mood and neurological processes.

CBD: The indirect modulator

Cannabidiol (CBD) does not bind with high affinity to CB1 and CB2 receptors. Instead, CBD enhances the effects of the body's own endocannabinoids, particularly anandamide (also known as the "happiness molecule"). At the same time, CBD inhibits enzymes like FAAH that break down these natural compounds.

This indirect mechanism of action explains why the effects of CBD are often described as more subtle and systemic. CBD also influences serotonin, vanilloid, and adenosine receptors, which accounts for its broad range of applications.

Receptor type	CBG interaction	CBD interaction
CB1 receptors	Direct bond	Low direct affinity
CB2 receptors	Direct bond	Modulating effect
5-HT1A (Serotonin)	Moderate antagonism	Agonistic effect
TRPV1 (Vanilloid)	Moderate activity	Strong activation
FAAH enzyme	inhibition	inhibition

The different bioavailabilities of both active ingredients depend heavily on the chosen route of administration. Sublingually administered oil achieves a comparable absorption rate for both substances, although CBG, due to its direct receptor binding, tends to show more quickly noticeable effects.

Therapeutic benefits: CBG vs. CBD in application

Both cannabinoids offer therapeutic potential, but differ in their primary applications. CBD excels in treating anxiety and supporting sleep, while CBG shows particular strengths in improving focus, its antibacterial properties, and its neuroprotective effects.

aspect	CBG	CBD
Primary strengths	Focus, concentration, antibacterial effect	Relaxation, sleep, anxiety reduction
Research depth	Promising, but limited	Extensively documented
Side effect profile	Dry eyes, changes in appetite	Fatigue, dry mouth
Time of application	Ideal during the day	Preferably in the evenings

CBG-specific properties

The antibacterial properties of CBG have attracted particular attention in research. A study from McMaster University (2020) demonstrated the efficacy of cannabigerol against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) – a significant finding in light of increasing antibiotic resistance.

CBG shows promising potential in the field of neuroprotection. Research from the Cajal Institute in Spain (2015) identified neuroprotective effects in mouse models of Huntington's disease. These results suggest that CBG could support the formation of healthy nerve cells.

Other specific CBG properties include:

• Support in regulating intraocular pressure (glaucoma research)

• Potential appetite stimulant without psychoactive effects

• Promoting concentration and mental clarity

CBD-specific properties

The anti-inflammatory and calming effects of CBD have been demonstrated in numerous studies. Of particular note is the approval of Epidiolex (2018, FDA) – a CBD-based medication for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy. This recognition marks a milestone in the scientific validation of cannabidiol.

Established applications for CBD include:

• Support for anxiety and symptoms caused by chronic stress

• Promoting healthy sleep and muscle regeneration

• Relief from inflammation and associated pain

• Supporting general well-being

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is currently examining various CBD applications, which underlines the increasing scientific acceptance of this substance.

The entourage effect: CBG and CBD in combination

The combination of CBG and CBD enhances the effectiveness of both cannabinoids through synergistic effects – a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. Full-spectrum products may also contain cannabichromenic acid (CBCa) in addition to CBD and CBG, which further supports the entourage effect. This interaction means that the interplay of multiple cannabinoids and plant compounds produces a stronger overall effect than the sum of the individual effects.

Scientific basis of synergy

The entourage effect was first described in 1998 by Israeli researchers Raphael Mechoulam and Shimon Ben-Shabat. Their research showed that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other components of the hemp plant are more effective in combination than isolated pure substances.

When CBG and CBD are combined, their different mechanisms of action complement each other:

• CBG directly activates the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

• CBD simultaneously boosts the body's own endocannabinoid production.

• Both inhibit FAAH enzymes, which increases the anandamide concentration.

Practical application of combination products

So-called full-spectrum products contain not only CBD and CBG but also other phytocannabinoids such as CBC (cannabichromene) and CBN (cannabinol). These ingredients work together and can enhance the desired effects.

Dosage recommendations for combined use:

Experience level	Starting dose of CBD	Starting dose of CBG	Relationship
Beginners	10-15 mg	5-10 mg	2:1
Advanced	20-30 mg	10-15 mg	2:1
Experience	Customize to suit individual needs	Customize to suit individual needs	1:1 to 3:1

Start with low amounts and gradually increase the dosage over several weeks. This approach will allow you to find the optimal dose for your individual needs. Learn more about user experiences with CBG.

Product forms and application: CBG vs CBD in everyday life

Both CBG and CBD are available in various product forms, with significant differences in availability and concentration. The product form—whether oil, capsule, or cream—has a crucial impact on the application and effectiveness of CBG and CBD, as it determines the versatility and range of uses for these cannabinoids. CBD products dominate the market due to greater raw material availability, while CBG products represent a growing segment.

Comparison of available product forms

Product form	CBD	CBG	Notes
Oils/Drops	Widespread (5-30%)	Available (5-15%)	CBG oil usually has a lower concentration
Capsules	Standard product	Limited availability	Precise dosing possible
Isolate	99% purity available	99% purity available	For maximum potency
Creams/Topicals	Wide range	Increasingly available	Local application
Full spectrum	Market standard	As part	Contains both cannabinoids

Dosage differences

CBD products are typically offered in higher concentrations than CBG products. A common CBD oil concentration is 10-20%, while CBG oil often has an active ingredient content of 5-10%. These differences reflect the availability of raw materials.

Recommended intake:

• Morning: CBG-rich products for focus and concentration

• Evening: CBD-focused products for relaxation and sleep

• Throughout the day: Combination products for balanced effects

Price-performance ratio

The price of CBG is significantly higher than that of CBD due to the more complex extraction process. You can expect the following price ranges:

• CBD oil (10%): €30-60 per 10 ml

• CBG oil (10%): €50-100 per 10 ml

• Combination products: Between both price ranges

When choosing a product, you should pay attention not only to the price but also to quality features such as independent laboratory analyses, organic certification and transparent information on origin.

Side effects and safety: CBG vs CBD compared

Both cannabinoids are considered safe and well-tolerated, but they have different side effect profiles. The World Health Organization (WHO) classified CBD as safe in 2017 – an assessment that is also considered relevant for CBG due to structural similarities.

Comparison of possible side effects

Side effect	CBG	CBD
dry mouth	Rarely	Frequently
fatigue	Rarely	Frequently
Dry eyes	Frequently	Rarely
Changes in appetite	Possible (increase)	Possible (reduction)
Digestive problems	Rarely	Occasionally
Blood pressure changes	Possible	Possible

The different side effect profiles can be attributed to the different mechanisms of action. CBD's frequently reported fatigue is related to its calming effect, while CBG's dry eyes could correlate with its influence on intraocular pressure.

Drug interactions

Both active ingredients affect the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, which is responsible for breaking down many drugs. This interaction can affect the efficacy of certain medications.

Special caution is advised in the following cases:

• Blood thinners (warfarin, phenprocoumon)

• Benzodiazepines and sedatives

• Antiepileptics

• Immunosuppressants

• Certain cardiovascular medications

If you regularly take medication, be sure to consult a doctor before using CBG or CBD. This recommendation applies especially to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Recommendations for risk minimization

1. Start with the lowest recommended dosage.

2. Observe your body carefully during the first few weeks.

3. Keep a diary of your intake and observed effects.

4. Choose products with independent laboratory analyses

5. Inform your doctor about the use

Decision-making aid: When to use CBG, when to use CBD, when to use both.

The choice between CBG and CBD depends on your individual needs, the desired time of application, and your budget. This handy decision matrix will help you make your choice.

This article and post will be regularly updated to reflect the latest findings on CBG and CBD.

Decision matrix according to objective

Your goal	Recommendation	Reason
Focus and concentration during the day	CBG	Direct receptor binding promotes mental clarity
Relaxation and sleep	CBD	Established calming effects
General health support	combination	The entourage effect maximizes benefits
Inflammation and pain	CBD or combination	Extensive research on CBD
Antibacterial support	CBG	Specific research findings
Budget-conscious entry	CBD	Better availability, lower price

Product selection scenarios

Choose CBG if you:

• Seeking mental clarity and focus during the day

• you want to benefit from the antibacterial properties

• Appetite stimulation is desired

• If you already have experience with CBD and want to explore alternatives

Choose CBD if you:

• If you are seeking relaxation and better sleep

• New to the field of cannabinoids are

• Prefer an established product with extensive research.

• If you want to shop with a focus on price

Choose a combination if you:

• You desire maximum synergy through the entourage effect

• You have different needs at different times of day.

• Are you looking for long-term, holistic support?

Step-by-step instructions for product selection

1. Define your main goal – what do you primarily want to achieve?

2. Determine the time of application – during the day (CBG tendency) or in the evening (CBD tendency)?

3. Set your budget – CBG is more expensive, CBD is cheaper.

4. Choose the product form – oil for flexible dosing, capsules for precision.

5. Check the quality features – laboratory analyses, organic certification, origin

6. Start with a low dose – increase gradually if necessary.

7. Document your experiences – for optimal adaptation

Frequently asked questions about CBG vs CBD

Is CBG or CBD better suited for beginners?

For beginners, CBD is the better choice. This is due to the more extensive research, wider product availability, and lower price. CBD products are also available in a wider range of concentrations, allowing for gentler dosage adjustments. After gaining some experience with CBD, you can explore CBG as a supplement or alternative.

Can CBG and CBD be taken at the same time?

Yes, CBG and CBD can be taken together without any problems. The combination is even recommended, as both cannabinoids work synergistically through the entourage effect. Full-spectrum products already contain both substances in their natural ratio. If taken separately, you can use CBG in the morning for focus and CBD in the evening for relaxation.

How do the prices of CBG and CBD products differ?

CBG products typically cost 50-100% more than comparable CBD products. A 10ml bottle of CBG oil (10%) costs around €50-100, while CBD oil of the same concentration costs €30-60. This price difference results from the lower CBG concentration in the hemp plant (1% vs. 20%) and the more complex extraction process.

Which cannabinoid works faster?

Due to its direct binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBG tends to show faster effects. While CBD works indirectly by modulating the body's own endocannabinoids, CBG binds directly to the receptors. When taken sublingually (under the tongue), CBG effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes, whereas CBD often takes 30-60 minutes.

Are there differences in the legality of CBG vs. CBD?

In Germany, both CBG and CBD are legal as long as the THC content is below 0.3%. Both substances are non-psychoactive and are not subject to the Narcotics Act. This legal equality applies to all product forms – from oils and capsules to creams. When purchasing, you should look for laboratory analyses that confirm the THC content. A special feature of CBG is that... Naturally, CBD products contain <0.1% THC, while CBD products usually contain <0.3% THC.

How can I identify high-quality CBG and CBD products?

You can recognize high-quality cannabinoid products by several characteristics:

• Independent laboratory analyses: Certificates of Analysis confirm purity and active ingredient content

• Transparent origin: Information on the origin of the hemp and the cultivation method

• Organic certification: Guaranteed pesticide-free cultivation

• CO2 extraction: Considered the cleanest extraction method

• Complete product information: Clear details on all ingredients and dosage.

• Reputable provider: Accessible customer service and transparent company information

Avoid products without laboratory analysis or with unrealistic health claims. Reputable providers communicate openly about the limitations and possibilities of their products.