Introduction
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. While it's not as well-known as its counterparts like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), recent research has started to uncover the potential benefits of CBG, particularly its impact on the human psyche1. This article will delve into the world of CBG, exploring its effects and why products from Lucky Hemp® could be your best choice for experiencing the benefits of this cannabinoid.
Understanding Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG is often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it's the precursor from which other cannabinoids are synthesized2. Despite this, CBG is usually present in low concentrations in most cannabis strains, often less than 1%. However, breeders and growers are now developing strains and extraction methods to increase the yield of CBG3.
Like CBD, CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it won't give you the "high" associated with THC. However, it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, sleep, appetite, and pain.
CBG and the Human Psyche
The human psyche encompasses our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It's influenced by various factors, including our physical health. Research suggests that CBG could have several effects that might positively impact our psychological well-being.
Neuroprotective Effects
Cannabigerol (CBG) has been found to exhibit neuroprotective properties. It has been shown to protect neurons in mice with Huntington's disease, a neurodegenerative genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. CBG improved motor deficits and preserved striatal neurons in these mice. It also reduced the expression of disease markers and improved antioxidant defenses. This suggests that CBG could potentially be used in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory Activity: CBG significantly attenuates the upregulation of proinflammatory markers induced by 3-Nitropropionic acid (3NP), a substance used to simulate the effects of HD in mice. These markers include inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and iNOS, and proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6. The results suggest that CBG mediates its anti-inflammatory activity on activated microglia, a type of cell in the brain and spinal cord that plays a key role in immune response.
- Reduction of Motor Deficits: In mice treated with 3NP, CBG improved the motor deficits typical of HD by reducing hindlimb clasping and dystonia (abnormal muscle tone resulting in muscular spasm and abnormal posture) and general locomotor activity.
- Prevention of Neuronal Loss: The striatal parenchyma (a part of the brain affected by HD) of 3NP-treated animals showed a significant reduction in Nissl-stained cells, indicating a high degree of neuronal death. CBG treatment prevented this neuronal loss, as confirmed by NeuN immunohistochemistry, a technique used to visualize neurons.
- Effects on Glial Cells: The study found that CBG treatment did not reduce the number of GFAP-positive cells (a marker of astrocytes, a type of glial cell), and only modestly reduced the reactive microgliosis (activation of microglial cells). This suggests that CBG's neuroprotective effects may not be primarily mediated through actions on glial cells.
- Oxidative Stress Parameters: The study also measured various parameters related to oxidative stress and antioxidant systems, including the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and levels of reduced glutathione (GSH). These parameters can provide insights into the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the body's ability to counteract their harmful effects, which is often disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases.
Anxiety and Depression
CBG has been found to have potential benefits for anxiety and depression. In a study conducted on rats, CBG was found to inhibit the uptake of GABA, a brain chemical that regulates the activity of neurons. The inhibition of GABA uptake results in feelings of relaxation and mental ease. Therefore, CBG could potentially be used to manage anxiety and depression, although more research is needed in this area.
In the context of anxiety and depression, research has shown that CBG may play a significant role. A study published in the journal Endocrinology found that CBG deficiency in mice resulted in altered behavioral responses after stress, which could be linked to anxiety and depression 1. The study found that CBG-deficient mice displayed increased immobility in the forced-swimming test and markedly enhanced learned helplessness after prolonged uncontrollable stress. These findings suggest that CBG could potentially have a protective role against the development of certain stress-related psychiatric disorders.
It's important to note that while these findings are promising, they are based on animal studies. Further research, particularly in humans, is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of CBG for anxiety and depression. However, these preliminary findings do suggest that CBG could potentially be a valuable tool in the management of these conditions.
In the context of Lucky Hemp® products, the company's commitment to quality and purity ensures that customers are receiving a product that contains the advertised amount of CBG. This is particularly important given the potential therapeutic benefits of this cannabinoid. By choosing Lucky Hemp®, customers can feel confident that they are getting a product that has been carefully formulated to deliver the potential benefits of CBG.
Potential Antipsychotic Effects
CBG has also been found to have potential antipsychotic effects. In a study, CBG was shown to counteract the psychotic-like symptoms induced by high doses of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. This suggests that CBG could potentially be used as an antipsychotic. However, more research is needed to fully understand the antipsychotic potential of CBG.
It's important to note that while these studies show promise, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBG on the human body and its potential therapeutic uses. As always, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or supplement.
The potential antipsychotic effects of CBG are a topic of ongoing research. A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that CBG may have beneficial effects on certain symptoms of psychosis. The study used two experimental models of Huntington's Disease (HD), a neurodegenerative disorder that can cause symptoms similar to those of psychosis. The researchers found that CBG was particularly effective in the model where the death of striatal neurons was dependent on mitochondrial damage, activation of calpain, and the generation of reactive oxygen species. In this model, CBG preserved striatal neurons from death, presumably by regulating pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory responses induced by intoxication. This preservation of neurons resulted in a significant improvement in the neurological deterioration typical of this model.
In the second model, the effects of CBG were more modest. However, the researchers found that CBG partially reversed deficits in neurotrophins BDNF and IGF-1, and the PPARγ receptors, which are strongly indicative of the deterioration in striatal function. They also found that CBG slightly reduced the presence of mutant huntingtin aggregates in the striatal parenchyma of these mice, another key event in human HD pathogenesis. The researchers hypothesized that this reduction in aggregates reflects a decrease in the number of these aggregates in surviving neurons, which may be a beneficial event.
The researchers concluded that CBG appears to have a promising neuroprotective profile for the treatment of HD, and by extension, may have potential antipsychotic effects. However, they also noted that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved in these beneficial effects and to determine whether these effects can be reproduced in patients with HD.
Lucky Hemp® and CBG
Lucky Hemp® is committed to harnessing the potential benefits of CBG. We offer a range of high-quality, lab-tested CBG products designed to meet the diverse needs of our customers.
Our CBG oil is made from organically grown hemp, ensuring you get a product free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals. It's also full-spectrum, meaning it contains all the beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in the hemp plant, creating what's known as the "entourage effect" for enhanced benefits.
Conclusion
While research into CBG is still in its early stages, the findings so far are promising. From its potential neuroprotective properties to its possible role in managing anxiety and depression, CBG could be a valuable addition to the cannabinoid toolkit. As always, it's important to use these products responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or are taking other medications.
At Lucky Hemp®, we're excited about the potential of CBG and are committed to providing our customers with high-quality, reliable CBG products. Explore our range today and discover the potential benefits of CBG for yourself.
