Unless you have no interest in what's new in wellness (then why are you reading this?), you are probably familiar with CBD and its many applications in health and wellness. But have you heard of CBG (cannabigerol)? If not, read on because it's definitely a cannabinoid you want to know about.
What is CBG?
A little background is necessary before discussing the benefits of CBG. The cannabis plant contains many different compounds, including over 100 cannabinoids. The human body actually makes its own cannabinoids of sorts, called endcannabinoids, that help maintain the body's equilibrium (you can read more in my prior blog on cannabinoids and your lady parts). The most well known plant cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD cannabidiol), but another cannabinoid, CBG, is slowly gaining more attention.
CBG is referred to as the “mother” of cannabinoids because it's the precursor (think "stem cell" if you will) of all other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. Although it was first described in the 1960's, it likely isn't as popular as CBD because traditionally only small amounts of CBG could be extracted from the plant; however, more recently cannabis plants are being bred to produce more CBG. Because CBG is the parent compound, it has all the potential health benefits that CBD has and possibly more without the psychoactive effects like THC.
What can CBG do?
CBG is known for relieving pain and decreasing inflammation as well as having antibacterial and antifungal properties. Specifically CBG has been shown to be effective against MRSA (Methicilllin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) that is a bacteria resistant to many antibiotics. (Appendino 2008) CBG's pain relieving effect is likely related to its ability to prevent muscle spasms and inhibit GABA (Gamma AminoButyric Acid) reuptake, i.e. keep GABA around. (Pagano 2015, Russo 2017) GABA is a neurotransmitter in the brain, and increasing levels of GABA can also potentially increase desire. As for its anti-inflammatory effects, CBG has been used to treat skin inflammatory conditions such as eczema and psoriasis as well as inflammatory bowel disease. (Wilkinson 2007, Borrelli 2013) All of these benefits are potentially enhanced when CBD and CBG are combined. (Mammana 2019) The enhancement of CBD and CBG's properties when used together has been referred to as "the entourage effect."
CBG, CBD & Lube
Us gals here at Glissant recognized the promise of CBG early on, which is why we intentionally blended it in our Huile d'Amour Intimate Lubricant with CBD and multiple other botanicals that can enhance your sexual experience. We know that the best intimate experience can be ruined by any type of pain, waning desire, or fear of a vaginal or bladder infection. The entourage effect of combining CBD and CBG with herbal aphrodisiacs and vasodilators can potentially increase blood flow to the genital area that results in enhanced response, inhibit painful muscle contractions, prevent certain types of infection, and provide pain relief. The end result...a whole lot of good for you down there.
Try GLISSANT's CBD & CBG Oil-Based Intimate Lubricant Spray and GLISSANT's FDA-cleared Sea-Salt & Caramel Water-Based Intimate Lubricant Spray.
Dr. Karyn Eilber MD is a physician in Beverly Hills with over 20 years of experience in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery.