What is CBG?

Introduction

Cannabigerol, also known as CBG, is the non-psychoactive cannabinoid most commonly found in cannabis strains with low THC and high CBD content. Unlike THC, CBG binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. However, CBG actually counteracts the psychoactive effects of THC.
Many studies have shown that scientists have already correctly determined the optimal extraction window for cannabis to get the largest amounts of CBG. Extraction should be done after about six weeks within an eight-week flowering period.

Does CBG get me high?

CBG doesn't really get you high. In fact, it's known for counteracting some of the paradoxical and intense feelings that THC can trigger.

CBG explained chemically

Cannabigerol is one of the organic compounds in the cannabis plant—aptly called cannabinoids. It's considered a minor cannabinoid because the harvested plant generally only contains up to 1% CBG (rarely up to 2%). But how does CBG actually form?

The cannabis plant produces CBGA—“A” stands for acid, which means CBGA is the acidic component of cannabigerol. Cannabigerolic acid is basically the brains of the operation, since it's the precursor to the three main cannabinoids: THC, CBD, and CBC. Simply put: without CBGA, there would be no THC or CBD.

During the plant's life cycle, natural enzymes (called synthases) convert CBGA into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. These are then converted into THC, CBD, and CBC through a process called decarboxylation—removing a carboxyl group by applying heat.

The limited amounts of CBGA left in the plant after the other cannabinoids are produced get decarboxylated and turned into CBG.