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CBGA: Benefits and Guide
Read this guide from Sunmed to learn more about CBGA benefits, effectiveness, and whether it’s a worthwhile choice over CBG.
There are over one hundred naturally occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant, each with its own unique properties. While it may not be as well-known as CBD or THC, CBGA is gaining attention for its potential benefits and how it fits into a balanced lifestyle.
Here's what you need to know if you're thinking about incorporating CBGA into your wellness routine.
What is CBGA?
CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) is often called the "mother of all cannabinoids." That’s because it plays a foundational role in the creation of many other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC.
Before cannabinoids fully develop, they all start as CBGA in the hempplant. CBGA transforms into other cannabinoids as the plant matures, with each type of hemp plant producing cannabinoids in different ratios.
Even though CBGA doesn’t have the same mainstream reputation as other cannabinoids, research suggests that it may be valuable in its own right.
What are the potential benefits of CBGA?
CBGA is an exciting area of study, and researchers are uncovering more about what it can do. There isn't a wealth of evidence that CBGA on its own provides broad support like CBD has been demonstrated to do.*
Research into CBGA is limited because hemp plants quickly and efficiently convert it into other cannabinoids. It’s difficult to harvest CBGA in large amounts because the hemp plant tends to use CBGA as quickly as it produces it.
Research suggests that CBGA may play a small role in supporting the cardiovascular system.* CBGA doesn't have as many clearly defined supportive benefits as other cannabinoids.
What is the difference between CBGA and CBG?
All cannabinoids begin in the form of an acid that the plant can use to fulfill its growth and reproductive functions. THC begins as THCA, CBD begins as CBDA, and CBG begins as CBGA.
The "acid" part specifically refers to a group of carboxylic acids that are attached to the structure of the cannabinoid. When the acid group is removed with heat, it changes the structure of the cannabinoid.
The cannabinoid receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system in the human body are stimulated by cannabinoids, but only if they're in the right size and shape to interact with or bind to the receptors in your system.
Cannabinoids with the acid group still attached, like CBGA, are significantly less effective at communicating with your endocannabinoid system. They're the wrong pieces for the puzzle, and your body can't make them fit. When the acid groups are removed from the cannabinoids (in a process called decarboxylation), they're far better at supporting your system.
CBG is CBGA with the acid group removed, which means it's more effective at promoting benefits and supporting your endocannabinoid system.* Overall, CBG has greater therapeutic potential.
What does CBG do?
CBG is the second phase of CBGA. With the acid group removed, CBG is primed to interact with your body in a meaningful way.
CBG may play an important role in promoting gastrointestinal motility, which means it helps your digestive tract move.* Your digestive tract needs plenty of water, fiber, probiotic foods, and prebiotic foods for effective digestion. CBG may potentially provide additional support to your body’s natural processes.
CBG also serves as a powerful antioxidant.* Antioxidants like CBG support your body’s cells during exposure to harmful pollutants or natural byproducts of your body’s processes that can cause damage.
Since CBG broadly interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, it may provide holistic energy support and promote natural balance within your body. Your body contains cannabinoid receptors within almost every system of your brain and body, with the endocannabinoid system providing broad support to a wealth of natural processes.
Cannabinoids like CBG may support your body’s natural responses, energizing your system and supporting internal balance.*
The bottom line
Although research into CBGA is currently very limited, research into CBG is ongoing and productive. If you’re looking to experience the benefits of the mother cannabinoid, you’re most likely to see meaningful success with full spectrum and broad spectrum hemp supplements that contain CBG.
Sunmed’s Broad Spectrum Rise CBG tincture is formulated for natural energy and balance. If you’re interested in sampling hemp-derived products for the first time, our Broad Spectrum Rise CBG Gummies Starter Pack is a great way to sample CBG!
Remember: benefits become most apparent with a consistent wellness routine. The best way to experience the benefits of any wellness practice is to commit yourself to long term daily healthy habits.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Acidic Cannabinoid Decarboxylation | National Library of Medicine