CBD Vs CBG Vs CBN: Simply Explained

January 25, 2024

The world of Cannabis has been opening up more in recent history. As such, we are learning all about the different elements that make up this wonderful plant. The different cannabinoids available throughout the plant have much to offer us. Let’s take a deeper look into what cannabinoids are and how they benefit us. 

What Are Cannabinoids?

The cannabis plant has over113 different cannabinoids. These are the different compounds found in the plant. Some plants are richer in one compound than another. Other compounds will develop into different compounds in given circumstances. This is why it is a good idea to take a closer look at the different cannabinoids and what they have to offer.

Classes of Cannabinoids

By classifying cannabinoids into classes like major and minor, it is easier to pay attention to the most relevant ones. This is also beneficial when looking at the part they play in the effects the cannabinoids have on the body.

Major Cannabinoids 

The most prevalent cannabinoid compounds are included in the major cannabinoids category. These include compounds such as:  

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

• Cannabidiol (CBD)

• Cannabigerol (CBG)

Each of these compounds has a different effect on the body due to how they react with thecannabinoid receptors in the body such as the CB₁ and CB₂ receptors. 

Minor Cannabinoids

Less prevalent, but still very relevant are minor cannabinoid compounds. These compounds are not as widely sought out, but still have a lot to offer. They can include:  

• Cannabinol (CBN)

• Cannabichromene (CBC)

• Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCv)

Even while being less sought after, these compounds have been studied and have a lot to offer.

Other Cannabinoids

This leaves over 107 other compounds in the cannabis plant. Without naming all of them, a few notable compounds include:  

• Tetrahydrocannabinol Acid (THCA)

• Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA)

• Cannabicyclol (CBL)

• Tetrahydrocannabiorcol (THCC)

• Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

• Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP)

• Cannabidivarin (CBDV)

• Cannabichromevarin (CBCV)

• Cannabigerovarin (CBGV)

• Cannabigerol Monomethyl Ether (CBGM)

• Cannabielsoin (CBE)

• Cannabicitran (CBT)

   

These compounds are valued for their individual offerings as well as their ability to be converted into other compounds through manipulation. 

Differences Between Cannabinoids

The differences between the different cannabinoids have to do with how they react with the body. As mentioned above, this has to do with the CB₁ and CB₂ receptors in the body. It also has to do with theendocannabinoid system (ECS) and how the cannabinoids affect it. By taking a look at some of the different cannabinoids, it is possible to get a better understanding of which is best for you. 

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD), is one of the most well-known cannabinoids along with THC. Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. It is preferred by those looking to enjoy the health benefits the cannabis plant offers without the intoxicating effects. It is used in gummies, oils, creams and evencan be used in a vape pen.

Effects of CBD?

Given the growing popularity of CBD, we are discovering more uses for it every day. 

Among the different benefits people value CBD for include:  

• Chronic Pain

• Inflammation

• Seizures 

• Certain skin conditions

• Stress relief

• Alleviating physical discomfort

What is CBN?

Cannabinol (CBN), has been studied a lot in the past. It fell out of favor once CBD hit the scene and THC has been legalized in different states. Many are starting to come back to CBN to enjoy the benefits without as many of the psychoactive effects as THC. CBN is the compound that exists when THC degrades naturally or synthetically. 

Effects of CBN

Among the few effects, CBN is known to have on the body is as a powerful sedative. This is different from CBD because while CBD will prolong the sleep cycle, CBN will induce sleep for those who have trouble sleeping. Research is ongoing, but other ways in which CBN is believed to assist is in the form of:  

• Pain relief

• Antibiotic

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anti-convulsion

Not much CBN is available on the market currently, but with more research, it is likely going to see a surge in the market if the additional health claims are proved to be valid. 

What is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) has also been dubbed the “stem cell” of cannabinoid compounds. This is because CBG evolves into different compounds through exposure to light and heat. As a result, this is a compound that has not been in high demand in the past. The focus was more on allowing the CBG to convert into THC and CBD instead. Most plants will contain 1% or less CBG when cultivated.

Effects of CBG

CBG is known to have an effect on yourdopamine levels increasing because of how it interacts with both the CB₁ and CB₂ receptors. This can also assist with:  

• Sleep

• Mood

• Appetite

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Anti-inflammatory

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Slowing nerve cell degeneration

• Bladder function

   

Ongoing research is being applied to the ability of CBG to offer help with cancer, glaucoma, and MRSA. 

Which Cannabinoid Works Best for You?

Personalizing the right cannabinoid to your needs can be tricky. As you can see above, some of these compounds cross over to assist with the same effects. It is why many believe in the entourage effect. This is whereby the different compounds work together to enhance the individual benefits of one compound when used with another. 

The best solution when searching for the right cannabinoid is to try them all individually and together. Take notes about how you feel when taking them. The ones that work best can then be combined. You may find one in particular that works best. You may find it is a group that works best.

Writer Bio:

Michael is a writer and content marketing strategist with 10+ years of experience currently enjoying his work at gotvape.com. His idea is to break some of the stereotypes people have towards health-providing educational pieces. He gets motivation by doing things he always assumed he can’t do but secretly wanted to try. Work hard, challenge yourself, stay focused, take a rest, and surround yourself with good people – this is the path to a balanced life.