Back to the Basics: What is CBG and CBN?
Even if you’re not a part of the cannabis community, you probably have heard of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). THC and CBD products are readily available in many forms, stocked on dispensary shelves, but they aren’t the only compounds found on cannabis plants.
Eagle-eyed consumers may have already spotted these alternative options: Cannabinol (CBN) and Cannabigerol (CBG). These two organic compounds have recently gained attention in the legal market and you can find them in forms of gummies, capsules, oils, and cartridges. Neither CBN nor CBG is intoxicating, and their effects are far different from THC. Curious? Let’s take a deeper look into them.
What is CBG (Cannabigerol)?
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Cannabigerol (CBG) is found on cannabis plants in its acidic form, CBGA. It is the CBGA in these plants that creates the molecules of THCA and CBDA (that later become THC and CBD when heat is applied to it, such as lighting a joint). What that means is producers must either crop the cannabis plants before they start transforming CBGA into THCA and/or CBDA or they need to use laboratory extractions to separate this molecule from other cannabinoids. These are not easy processes and that is why it is not common to find CBG flowers in dispensaries.
But the amount of work required might be worth it. In recent medical research studies, CBG has been shown to produce anti-inflammatory effects, pain-relieving properties, and appetite stimulation. It also has been shown to present brain neuroprotection by increasing neuroplasticity (the brain’s capacity to repair and regenerate after injury).
On the recreational side, CBG interacts with the receptors that influence concentration and mood. It has presented positive effects on focus and prolonging the time serotonin is active in the body. It also counterbalances the effects of THC, creating a more mild “high”.
Read more: Museworthy Feature - Brownie Mary
What is CBN (Cannabinol)?
Did you know that CBN was the first cannabinoid to be isolated from the cannabis plant back in 1896?
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CBN is formed from the decomposition of THCA; when the cannabis plant is exposed to air oxidation, light, or longer storage. CBN binds to different receptors in the body from THC, which means that CBN can synergize with THC and enhance its sedating and intoxicating effects. A common misconception says that CBN’s sedative effects are great for sleeping, but it may not be as straightforward as it seems. While it is true that dried, old cannabis has higher amounts of CBN, it also contains higher levels of sedative, oxygenated sesquiterpenes that may be responsible for its sleepy effects. Also, because CBN works well with other cannabinoids, it could be enhancing the effects of the other organic compounds.
In a study where researchers gave people pure THC, CBN, or both, CBN did not make people sleepy or high on its own. It was only when participants took both compounds together that they reported feeling more drugged, dizzy, and drowsy compared to THC alone.
On the medical side, CBN may have stronger effects on the immune system than on the nervous system (where THC acts). It has been shown to have many health applications such as anti-inflammatory properties, antibacterial effects, and anticonvulsant effects that can help with seizures (although it is weaker than THC and CBD). It may also have neuroprotective qualities and analgesic effects, but more researchreasearch is needed regardingneededregarding the use of CBN and its effects in the long run.
If you are curious about the uses and effects of these cannabinoids, ask your Budtender to guide you through this experience. The Muse Wayfarers have cannabis training, background, and knowledge to guide you through your journeyexperience. Just remember, we are not qualified nor is it legal for us to give medical advice!
By Fernanda Soldera, Muse Wayfarer
References
Kogan, N. M., Lavi, Y., Topping, L. M., Williams, R. O., McCann, F. E., Yekhtin, Z., ... & Mechoulam, R. (2021). Novel CBG derivatives can reduce inflammation, pain and obesity. Molecules, 26(18), 5601.
Legal, I. C. Does CBG Get You High? No, But It Could Be Your New Favorite Productivity Tool.
Legal, I. C. What is Cannabinol (CBN)?| Guide| CBDnerds 2021.
Nadulski, T., Sporkert, F., Schnelle, M., Stadelmann, A. M., Roser, P., Schefter, T., & Pragst, F. (2005). Simultaneous and sensitive analysis of THC, 11-OH-THC, THC-COOH, CBD, and CBN by GC-MS in plasma after oral application of small doses of THC and cannabis extract. Journal of analytical toxicology, 29(8), 782-789.
