Does CBG get you high? [Updated 2023]

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Whether you are a new or experienced enthusiast of cannabis, it’s likely that you will know about both CBD and THC. However, as people become increasingly aware of cannabigerol, asking “does CBG get you high?” is one of the first questions that you may wish to ask.

This guide to the cannabigerol cannabinoid from our experts at SlumberCBN will answer your key questions, including but not limited to;

• What is CBG oil?
• Does CBG get you high?
• What are the potential benefits of CBG?
• Where is CBG found?
• How is CBG used?

Here’s everything you need to know before implementing CBG into your cannabis habits.

What is cannabigerol?

Cannabigerol, shortened to CBG, is considered the “new cannabinoid” because the potential benefits of CBG are only just starting to be known. 

However, it is actually the mother of cannabinoids as all others are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). For example, CBDA and THCA start out as CBGA. Due to the fact that CBG eventually becomes other cannabinoids, CBG is primarily found in young cannabis plants.

Although the levels are relatively low even in younger cannabis plants, there is a significant contrast in levels found between different strains like White CBG. In most types of cannabis plants, however, the levels are no greater than 1% – which is significantly lower than the (roughly) 25% figure for each THC and CBD.

Due to the low quantities, CBG has been tested in genetic manipulation efforts in an attempt to increase the quantities produced. As a finished product, CBG is primarily found as a CBG oil but it can be found in other CBD oils that include a host of cannabinoids, excluding THC. CBG may also be consumed as gummies.

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Are all cannabis ingredients not the same?

There are over 100 distinct cannabinoids that can be individually extracted from cannabis plants, and they are also very closely related. Despite this, there are clear differences in how individual cannabinoids affect humans. So, it’s not only important to choose the right type of product (consumables, topicals, oils, etc.), but it is equally vital to select the right cannabinoids.

This guide to CBN v CBD highlights how significant the differences can be. Crucially, anyone looking to use cannabis products for health reasons should know that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the principal psychoactive substance that is responsible for impacting a person’s state of mind.

CBG has a chemical formula of C21H32O2 while its molar mass is 316.48 g/mol and its ChEMBL ID is 497318.

Does CBG get you high?

As confirmed by ScienceDirect, it is “nonpsychoactive and is a relatively weak partial agonist for both CB1 and CB2”. Due to this lack of psychoactive attributes, it will not get you high. However, all cannabinoids may affect one person differently from another. So, it will be important to monitor the early exposure to this cannabinoid, just as it would for any other. If nothing else this will help users determine the best dosage for their specific needs.

Nevertheless, CBG products made by legitimate Farm Bill-compliant will be legally and technically defined as ‘non-intoxicating’. 

That is because CBG oils have less than 0.3% THC levels in them. Given that even 0.3% is far below the threshold needed to create a psychoactive high, cannabigerol products can be used without fear of getting high. Furthermore, the potential benefits of CBG can be enjoyed without the threat of addiction. It makes CBG a good option when needed to manage temporary issues or control intermittent symptoms. 

Subsequently, then, the short answer to “does CBG get you high” is no. to gain a better understanding, though, it’s important to analyze how CBG actually interacts with the brain, including the interactions with key receptors. Aside from understanding why this means that there is no psychoactive high, it’ll also underline the uses and potential benefits of CBG.

How CBG works

Cannabigerol is processed by the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is the part of the nervous system responsible for regulating homeostasis. Endocannabinoids are natural compounds made by the body, and CBG imitates these to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors. It achieves this by binding them to other chemicals, which subsequently impacts brain activity by promoting and inhibiting certain reactions.

Homeostasis is when the body can remain in a stable place regardless of outside interferences that we all encounter every day. By imitating the natural endocannabinoids, CBG can alter the natural response to achieve a variety of outcomes depending on the intended use. This can include a range of physical and mental modifications.

Does CBG still provide potential health benefits?

Just because it does not possess the high-inducing attributes of THC, it doesn’t reduce the interactions with the CBD receptors or impact the level of potency when looking at the proposed benefits. It simply means that there is no psychoactivity occurring, which gives it a huge advantage over THC, especially for new users or consumers who expect to use the product on a daily basis.

While it is still important to calculate the right dosage for other reasons, you will not feel high due to CBG usage. However, you may experience some of the responses, such as feeling happier due to pain relief, that are commonly experienced after a hit of THC.

What is CBG oil?

CBG oil is very similar to CBD oil, except it focuses on the use of CBG, which was actually discovered in 1965. Interestingly, CBG oil may be used in conjunction with CBD oils, although this isn’t always the case.

The process of making CBG oil begins with extracting cannabigerol from the cannabis plant, which is why growers focus on young cannabis plants where the CBG levels are higher. The isolate will then be added to coconut oil or hemp seed oil, which are known as carrier oils. In some cases, CBG oil is topped up with other cannabinoid oils.

Once the CBG oil has been diluted with the carrier oil it can be used as a key ingredient in a range of suitable marijuana products.

How to take CBG oil

When looking to use CBG oil, it’s important to use a product that is suited to the intended purpose. It is one of the reasons to buy from a dispensary or store that offers a range of items, all of which are made from CBG isolates from quality farmers. The list of CBG products that you could use includes;

• As a tincture, putting a few drops under the tongue.
• As an oil that is put into the bath.
• In gummies or other consumables.
• In a topical rub that is applied directly to the skin.
• As an oil that goes into a diffuser.
• As a capsule.
• In a vape pen.

All of the CBG items can be made with different potency levels while most are also available in broad-spectrum blends that include CBNs, CBDs, or THCs. In the case of THC, the fact that CBG counteracts some of the psychoactive attributes is a telling feature.

Calculating the dosage

Thankfully, you won’t need to worry about CBG dosages in terms of fighting any potential high. Nevertheless, choosing the right amount of CBG for your requirements is a vital step to ensure that you enjoy the benefits without the side effects. Generally speaking, it will be between 500mg and 2500mg. 

Most people find that it is better to start with a small dose and work their way up until they find the right solution. Even once you have found the right dose, though, it’s important to remember that the effects can vary between brands. Similarly, appreciating the fact that tinctures will work quicker than capsules, for example, will help streamline the process.

Perhaps most importantly, you must look at the potency percentage. The strength of the product will determine how much of an impact is felt, along with the duration that they last for.

The potential benefits of CBG 

CBG has become an increasingly popular choice in recent years, not least because research continues to deliver clearer insights into its potential uses. Likewise, the growing popularity of cannabis products like CBD and CBN with a widespread audience has opened the door for consumers to consider alternatives like cannabigerol. As the demand increases, growers are able to place more focus on CBG too.

Medicinal cannabis markets have grown considerably in recent times. In 2020, the sector had sales totaling $7bn but that is estimated to surpass $37bn in 2024. CBG is one of the cannabinoids that is used in a growing number of items and may be prescribed for additional purposes.

The possible uses for CBG are quite varied but the effects on the brain are commonly linked to increase mental awareness, focus, and energy. Cannabigerol is a neuroprotectant that additionally shows the potential to support new cell growth (neurogenesis), thus leading to improved capacity. It may be attributed to the interactions with the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for managing hyperactivity and pain.

Due to its neuroplastic attributes, CBG may also combat the motor deficits and other symptoms caused by Huntington’s Disease. Cannabigerol may also boost a user’s mood because it inhibits the 5-HT1A to prolong the activity time of serotonin. Some of the other proposed benefits of CBG are detailed below:

Managing stress levels*

The benefits of increased serotonin durations can naturally promote reduced stress levels. However, this is further supported by the fact that it inhibits glutamate and inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter is another key factor. CBG has been shown to have even more potent impacts than CBD, which can promote a normal stress response.

Improved stress responses will indirectly yield a host of additional health benefits related to blood pressure, organ function, and general happiness. It can also yield improved sleep, which is something CBN is known to support, and improve cortisol regulation.

Reduce pain*

Pain relief has been one of the chief functions of medicinal marijuana. CBG has been shown to have inflammatory properties while it has greater analgesic attributes than THC. when supported by the fact it inhibits GABA reuptake, patients can benefit from increased comfort and reduced pain. 

The anti-inflammatory properties are experienced when applying CBG to the site of pain and can deliver quick relief. Meanwhile, consumption via ingestion may lead to lasting pain relief. Antibacterial properties have also been highlighted.

Promote eye health*

Eye tissues include a large number of cannabinoid receptors, which suggests that the endocannabinoid system is important for general health. Most noticeably, its role in fighting ocular hypertension can protect vision and may be key to fighting conditions like glaucoma. tellingly, CBG may regulate intraocular eye pressure to improve blood flow to optic nerves.

Animal research has also shown that aqueous humor outflow levels are improved, which subsequently helps the body provide nutrition to the eye.

Relieve mental health issues*

Products that utilize cannabis extracts have been used to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. CBG does not have the intoxicating properties of THC or other cannabinoids that produce a high. Therefore, it can be deemed a far safer approach to enjoying the therapeutic properties without the negative side effects. 

The calming influence of CBG can work wonders for social anxiety, for example. While it’s not a cure for mental health issues, cannabigerol may be a useful tool for managing the symptoms.

Fight Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

CBG has been cited as a potential item for managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease symptoms, not least thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It additionally reduces the production of both nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, which can promote improvements for digestive health for the millions of people who have chronic issues.

In addition to promoting healthier digestive systems, cannabigerol has also been highlighted as a way to increase a person’s appetite. Crucially, this outcome is achieved without the negative aspects of THC, such as craving junk food.

Other potential benefits of CBG

While research is still in its relative infancy, it has also been shown that CBG could play a role in fighting cancer cell growth, with a particular focus on colon cancer. Cannibingerol has also been linked to healthy metabolic processes to reduce the risk of obesity.

Further studies are continually conducted to help identify potential uses and benefits of cannabigerol.

CBG side effects

The lack of significant side effects is one of the main reasons that CBG has been heavily advocated in recent times. Any side effects are likely to be temporary and mild. Once again, it should be noted that it does not create the psychoactive ‘high’ that THC brings. In that sense, it is far closer to CBD.

While some users do not experience any side effects, the list of reported issues includes but is not limited to;

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Hunger
• Dry eyes

How to reduce the risk of CBG side effects

Education is the key to using CBG – or any other cannabis isolate – in a safe and effective manner. It is important to consider the intended function and benefits, as well as the dosage and frequency that may be required. Before taking cannabigerol, it is worth discussing the issue with a medical expert. Meanwhile, professionals like our friendly team can guide you through the different products on the market.

To reduce the side effects, the best tip is to start out with a low concentration and amount of CBG product. While most people tolerate CBG well without side effects, a controlled approach is crucial. Meanwhile, if using a topical rub, you should use it on an inconspicuous part of the skin first to check for potential allergies or reactions.

When to take CBG oil

Having the answers to “what is CBG oil?” or “how to take CBG oil” will put you on the path to success. For the best results, however, you must also consider the “when”. 

Thanks to the fact that CBG oil doesn’t include THC – unless you specifically seek a product that does – makes it safe to take in virtually all situations. As shown above, there are plenty of products available, which enables you to identify the right solution for any given moment. However, you could potentially take it;

• Before you go to sleep in a bid to relax the body and mind,
• When you start to feel pain, such as IBD symptoms,
• Before entering a situation where you know social anxiety might strike,
• At the same time each day to manage a related health condition.

There are plenty of additional scenarios in which you may want to use CBG products. As with calculating the dosage, a little trial and error could be the key to success.

The final thoughts on CBG

If you’ve been wondering “does CBG get you high?”, the good news is that it is one of the cannabinoids that will not produce psychoactivity in the same way that THC does. In fact, it can even combat some of the potential side effects caused by THC. While the potential benefits of CBG extend to a range of issues including eye health and digestive health, its main functions relate to the brain and an increased sense of focus and stress management.

To learn more about CBG, how it may be used, and which products are right for you, contact Slumber CBN today. Whether you’ve previously used CBD and THC or not, it could be the step to creating a better relationship with medicinal marijuana.