Did you know that the hemp plant contains more than 100 cannabinoids? Each one has its own structure, which means it can interact with the body differently. CBD may be the cannabinoid that you hear about the most often, but it’s not the only one.
CBG is also found in hemp, and while it shares some similarities to CBD, it has its own mechanism and benefits.
So, what is CBG, what are some of the CBG benefits, and how does it all work?
CBG stands for cannabigerol. It's one of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Like CBD, it's non-psychoactive, which means it won't get you high.
CBG is sometimes called the “mother of all cannabinoids.” That's because the hemp plant produces cannabigerolic acid first (CBGA), which eventually converts into CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.
By the time the plant matures, most of that CBGA has already been converted, which is why there’s generally less CBG present. That also makes it harder (and more expensive) to produce in large quantities.
CBG works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps keep functions like mood, appetite, stress response, and sleep in balance.
Like other cannabinoids, CBG supports the system in its own unique way, which is why you should consider adding it to your routine even if you’re already using CBD, for example.
In everyday life, CBG is used for different wellness goals. The most common reasons people add it to their routines include:
You can also take CBG alongside other cannabinoids to encourage what is known as the entourage effect. This effect refers to the way cannabinoids and other compounds in hemp may work better together than they do when you take them on their own.
And while the reasons for taking it vary, CBG benefits continue to be studied, and our understanding of this cannabinoid’s potential continues to grow.

There are some benefits for which people often take CBG that are well known in wellness circles, but we will not cover them due to a lack of research. Also, most CBG research is still in early stages: lab studies, animal models, and a small number of human trials. That means that we have to look at these as potential CBG benefits, rather than proven effects.
That being said, let’s see what adding CBG to your routine could help you with:
In one 2024 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical human study, thirty-four participants took 20mg of hemp-derived CBG. Researchers found that CBG significantly reduced feelings of unease at 20, 45, and 60 minutes after taking it compared to a placebo.
Some research also points to gut health being one of the CBG benefits.
One study used a mouse model of colitis and found that daily treatment with a high-CBG hemp extract reduced disease severity and also appeared to positively affect gut microbiome composition.
One of the more unexpected findings in CBG research is its activity against bacteria. One study found that CBG demonstrated antibacterial activity against drug-resistant MRSA. Another study tested all five major cannabinoids, including CBG, against multiple clinical MRSA strains and found potent activity across the board.
While this area still needs research, it adds another layer to CBG’s therapeutic potential.
A 2025 study looked at CBG in a model of atopic dermatitis, a condition that causes inflamed, irritated skin. The researchers found that CBG lowered several markers linked to skin inflammation and, in mice, improved signs of dermatitis such as skin thickness, severity, and immune cell activity.
While this was not a human study, it adds to the growing list of CBG benefits you should consider.
If you are interested in trying CBG, you will see it sold in a few familiar formats. The best option is always down to personal preference, how simple you want the routine to be, and how easy it is for you to stay consistent with it.
CBG tinctures are one of the most common choices. Tinctures make it easy to measure, adjust, and get a consistent dose every time.
Gummies are a great option if you want something convenient and pre-portioned. Bonus points: they taste really good.
If you like a more traditional format and want the full range of plant compounds, you can also try smoking CBG. Just note that dosing is less precise than with tinctures or gummies.
When choosing a product, pay attention to:
There is no one best format for everyone, which is why choosing the product should be about consistency and quality more than anything else.
CBG and CBD are both cannabinoids, both non-psychoactive, and both derived from hemp.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system indirectly. CBG, on the other hand, binds more directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. It also interacts with alpha-2 adrenoceptors and serotonin receptors. These are receptor pathways that CBD doesn't engage with in the same way. That's why researchers are looking at CBG for things they wouldn't necessarily expect from CBD.
CBD is usually described as calming and body-softening, while CBG seems to feel more uplifting, clear, and suitable for daytime use (The 2024 study mentioned above even found that CBG improved memory recall compared to a placebo).
Even though CBG is not that widely available as CBD, its potential benefits should definitely bump it up your list of wellness priorities. It is easy to add to a routine, you can take it in the same familiar formats, and it works a little differently, which may make it a better fit for some people.
And while we wait for more research, it’s up to you to decide if the findings that we have so far make it worth a try.
Please note that CBG may interact with certain medications, particularly blood pressure medications, sedatives, and antidepressants. If you're on any prescription medication, check with your doctor before adding CBG to your routine.