You’ve heard of THC. You’ve heard of CBD. But there’s a third cannabinoid quietly making waves in the medical cannabis world — and it might just be the most interesting one yet. Meet CBG, or Cannabigerol. Here’s everything you need to know about what it is, what it does, and why patients at Local’d in Washington DC are starting to pay attention.
What is CBG?
CBG — short for Cannabigerol — is often called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” and for good reason. Early in the cannabis plant’s growth cycle, CBG acid is the precursor from which all other cannabinoids are derived. As the plant matures, enzymes convert CBG acid into THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids depending on the strain. By the time most cannabis plants are harvested, very little CBG remains — typically around 1% or less.
This scarcity is part of what makes CBG so special. Producing CBG-rich products requires significantly more plant material than CBD or THC products, earning it a reputation as one of the most valuable cannabinoids in the industry.
What Are the Potential Benefits of CBG?
CBG was first identified by researchers back in 1964, but scientists are only now beginning to understand its full potential. Here’s what the research suggests so far:
Glaucoma & Eye Health CBG appears to be particularly effective at reducing intraocular pressure, making it a promising option for glaucoma patients. It also has vasodilator and neuroprotective properties that may benefit eye health more broadly.
Inflammation & IBD Animal studies have shown CBG may help reduce inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease — a finding that has generated significant interest in the medical community.
Neuroprotection A 2015 study found that CBG showed neuroprotective properties in mice with Huntington’s Disease, a condition characterized by nerve cell degeneration in the brain.
Cancer Research Early research has shown CBG may help block receptors that drive cancer cell growth. One study found it inhibited the growth of colorectal cancer cells — a promising early finding that researchers are continuing to investigate.
Antibacterial Properties European research has found CBG to be an effective antibacterial agent, particularly against MRSA — a strain of bacteria that is resistant to many common drugs.
Appetite Stimulation A 2017 study found that purified CBG stimulated appetite in rats without the psychoactive effects of THC, suggesting it could be a non-intoxicating treatment option for conditions involving severe weight loss.
Bladder Health Research examining the effects of several cannabinoids on bladder contractions found CBG to be the most effective at inhibiting muscle contractions, pointing to potential applications for bladder dysfunction.
How Is CBG Different From CBD and THC?
| CBG | CBD | THC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychoactive? | No | No | Yes |
| Precursor to other cannabinoids? | ✅ Yes | No | No |
| Abundance in plant | Very low (~1%) | High | High |
| Research stage | Early but promising | Well established | Well established |
| Primary benefits | Neuroprotection, antibacterial, eye health | Stress, sleep, pain | Pain, appetite, mood |
Where to Find CBG Products in Washington, DC
CBG is still relatively rare compared to CBD and THC products, but availability is growing as more cultivators develop CBG-rich strains. If you’re a medical cannabis patient in Washington DC curious about exploring CBG, Local’d is here to help. Our menu features a curated selection of lab-tested cannabis products delivered fast to your door across DC — typically within the hour.
Browse the Local’d menu to see what’s currently available, or visit our FAQ page if you’re new to medical cannabis in DC and want to learn more before placing your first order.
The Bottom Line
CBG is one of the most exciting frontiers in cannabis research. While the science is still in its early stages, the early findings are genuinely promising across a wide range of conditions. As research continues to develop, CBG is likely to become an increasingly important part of the medical cannabis conversation. Watch this space.
