There are many components to the cannabis plant and what it has to offer. Some of the most recognized terms are THC, CBD, and CBG. Knowing the difference between the three will help you to decide what products best fit your needs. In combination their benefits can intensify.
CBD
CBD stands for Cannabidiol. CBD is a phytocannabinoid derived from Cannabis species, which is free of psychoactive activity, with analgesic (pain relieving), anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic (cancer treating), and chemo preventive activities. CBD is a natural and therapeutic compound that is found in the resinous flower of cannabis. It is widely known as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals that bare harsh side effects. CBD can provide relief for chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, depression, and more. Extensive scientific research, mostly sponsored by the U.S government, highlights CBD’s potential as treatment for a wide range of diseases. This includes but is not limited to:
- Autoimmune diseases like inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis
- neurological conditions including Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
- Metabolic Syndrome like diabetes and obesity.
- Neuropsychiatric illness including autism, adhd, PTSD, and alcoholism.
- Gut disorders like Crohns and Colitis
- Cardiovascular dysfunctions including atherosclerosis and arrhythmia.
- Skin disease including acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
CBD is known to have neuroprotective effects. This anti-cancer substance has also been reported to stimulate neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells. CBD is known to be sedating at higher doses and often is used as a calming sleep aid.
The benefits that CBD alone can provide to humans and even our pets is truly remarkable.
CBG
CBG stands for Cannabigerol. It Comes from young cannabis plants, which contain higher amounts of it then filly developed plants do. Our bodies contain two types of cannabinoid receptors- CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors are in the immune system and other areas of the body. CBG binds to both receptors and strengthens the function of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that enhances pleasure and innovation, regulating appetite and sleep, and alleviating pain. Since all the cannabinoids start as CBG, it is referred to as the “Mother Cannabinoid”. Unlike THC and CBD, CBG is not produced by trichomes on the cannabis plant. Instead, it is produced by cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is then converted into other cannabinoids like THCA and CBDA via decarboxylation.
CBG works behind the scenes by reducing chronic stress and inflammation in your body. It has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties and improves gut health. It is also known to fight against bacteria that causes intestinal inflammation. CBG has been shown to have effective anti-bacterial properties and has been shown effective against (MRSA) a type of bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics. Improving gut health directly impacts other aspects of your health and mood. CBG’s benefits can carry over to clearer thinking, less brain fog, and improved mood.
CBG boosts your brains GABA levels. GABA is one ofyour brains most important neurotransmitters; adequate levels of it help your muscles and mind to relax.
The difference between CBG and CBD is that CBD binds to TRPV1 ionotropic cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system. CBG seems to interact directly with the brains CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. CBG has more anti-bacterial effects then CBD which makes it a great component for a cream or topical.
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical responsible for most of marijuana’s psychological effects. It acts much like the cannabinoid chemicals made naturally by the body. Cannabinoid receptors are concentrated in certain areas of the brain associated with thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination, and time perception. THC attaches to these receptors, activates them, and affects a person’s memory, pleasure, movements, thinking, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception. THC stimulates cells in the brain to release dopamine, creating euphoria. THC works by attaching to the body’s cannabinoid receptors, which are found throughout the brain and nervous system. THC can be detected in the body much longer than most other drug compounds, although the psychoactive effects only last a few hours. THC is stored in body fat and organs for three to four weeks. Hair follicle testing may identify THC after even longer periods of time, around 90 days. THC is often smoked as marijuana (dried leaves of the Cannabis plant), but there are a number of different ways it can be used. THC can be consumed by:
- Inhalation: This is the fastest method of delivery and produces the quickest psychoactive effects, often within minutes. THC can be inhaled via smoking, vaping, or dabbing.
- Oral ingestion: THC can be taken by mouth in the form of capsules, edibles, tinctures, or oils. While this method of delivery takes longer to have an effect, the drug’s effects tend to last longer.
- Topical application: THC can also be included in lotions, balms, salves, oils, and bath salts that are then applied to the skin. The effects of this method are usually localized, which means that they are unlikely to have psychoactive effects. However, such products may be helpful for reducing pain and inflammation.
- Sublingual administration: THC can also be consumed as lozenges, sprays, or dissolvable strips that are placed under the tongue and dissolved.
THC is used recreationally, but it has several medicinal uses as well. Marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years with s growing body of scientific research on its use to alleviate and treat a variety of illnesses.
Some of the ailments that THC may help include:
- Depression
- Glaucoma
- Inflammation
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Migraines
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscle spasticity
- Nausea
- Opioid use disorder
- Pain
- Poor appetite
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Seizures
- Symptoms associated with HIV/AIDS
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
In conclusion there are many aspects and benefits that can be utilized from the Cannabis plant, and in combination it truly makes this a super-plant that is packed with medicinal properties.
