What is CBG? Potential Benefits, Effects and How It Compares With CBD

October 5, 2026

By Becky Burrows · Reviewed by Paul Holmes · Updated 29 September 2026

CBG stands for cannabigerol, a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis and hemp. CBG is non-intoxicating and develops from CBGA, a precursor the plant uses to make cannabinoids including CBD, THC and CBC. CBG research remains limited, with most findings coming from laboratory or animal studies rather than people.

At a glance

CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Its acidic precursor, CBGA, is used by the cannabis plant to form several other cannabinoid acids.
Human evidence remains limited. One small controlled trial and a user survey sit above a much larger body of laboratory, tissue and animal research.
CBG and CBD are both non-intoxicating, but they differ in plant origin, typical abundance, biological targets and evidence maturity. Current evidence does not show that one is universally stronger.
There is no blanket legal position for every CBG product in Ireland. Marketability depends on composition, controlled-cannabinoid content, novel-food status, intended use and marketing claims.
CBG’s human safety and medicine-interaction profile is not yet well established. Survey findings and laboratory evidence should not be treated as general incidence rates or proven clinical interactions.
When choosing a CBG product, check the amount per serving, cannabinoid profile and a batch-matched independent certificate of analysis.

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In this article

1. What is CBG?
2. How is CBG produced in the plant?
3. How does CBG work in the body?
4. What are the potential benefits of CBG?
5. What does the current human evidence show?
6. CBG vs CBD: key differences
7. How might CBG make you feel?
8. Is CBG intoxicating?
9. Is CBG legal in Ireland?
10. CBG safety, side effects and medicine interactions
11. How to choose a quality CBG product
12. Frequently asked questions
13. Evidence-led conclusion
14. References

1. What is CBG?

CBG is usually described as a minor cannabinoid because many plant varieties retain relatively little CBG after CBGA has been converted into other cannabinoid acids. The amount varies with genetics, maturity and growing conditions, so a fixed percentage should not be applied to every hemp plant.

CBG is not an established treatment for any of the conditions discussed in this article. Most disease-related findings come from cells, isolated tissue or animal models. These studies can identify questions for future clinical research, but they cannot demonstrate a health benefit in people.

Close-up of a hemp plant leaf and flower in natural light, representing the plant source of CBG

2. How is CBG produced in the plant?

CBG is extracted from the hemp plant using chromatography, broadly the same process used for CBD, but starting from a much smaller amount of raw material. It generally involves three steps:

1Extract

Hemp is dissolved in a solvent, such as CO₂ or ethanol, which draws the cannabinoids out of the plant.
CO₂ or ethanol
2Concentrate

The resulting solution is evaporated under vacuum to remove residual gases, leaving a concentrated CBG extract.
Evaporated under vacuum
3Store

The concentrate, and any finished CBG products made from it, are stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight to preserve potency.
Room temperature, out of sunlight

CBG is widely considered one of the more expensive cannabinoids to produce, for two practical reasons. Since hemp contains only minute proportions of CBG, it takes a large amount of biomass to yield a comparatively small amount of extract, and the plant has to be harvested earlier than usual, before CBG-A breaks down into other cannabinoids, which lowers the overall crop yield.

Scientist in a white lab coat and gloves holding a small glass dropper bottle of hemp oil and a stack of papers

Apart from its cost, CBG also poses difficulties for cultivators. The longer a hemp plant takes to mature, the greater the chance of CBG-A breaking down into CBD and other cannabinoids. So cultivators either grow cannabis specifically for CBG and harvest early, or let the crop mature fully for other purposes with a much lower CBG content.

3. How does CBG work in the body?

CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors involved in regulating pain, mood, appetite and inflammation. Unlike CBD, which mostly influences this system indirectly, CBG is thought to bind more directly to both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Early laboratory research also suggests CBG may inhibit the reuptake of GABA, a neurotransmitter linked to muscle relaxation and calm, though this has not been confirmed in human studies. This direct receptor activity is one reason researchers are interested in CBG specifically, rather than treating it as a minor variant of CBD.

4. What are the potential benefits of CBG?

CBG does not have proven clinical benefits for the conditions below. This section reports what researchers have tested and separates evidence categories by study type.

Tap each level to open it. The five levels run from studies in people down to laboratory work. Only level 1 is a controlled human trial, and it tested healthy adults, not a health condition.

1Human trial: acute responses in healthy adultsHuman · 34 healthy adults

A 2024 crossover trial in 34 healthy adults found that a single 20 mg dose of CBG produced no subjective intoxication or measurable cognitive or motor impairment during the study period. The trial also reported some self-reported acute changes in anxiety, stress and mood, but no formal clinical scales were used to quantify these effects [2].

What it cannot tell usA single dose in healthy adults cannot show that CBG treats any health condition.

2Self-reported use: useful context, not clinical proofHuman · online survey of 127 users

An online survey of 127 CBG-predominant cannabis users recorded self-reported experiences and adverse events. Respondents reported benefits such as improved focus, reduced anxiety, enhanced mood, better sleep, pain relief and increased appetite [3].

What it cannot tell usSelf-reported surveys are uncontrolled and cannot establish causation, efficacy or accurate adverse-event rates.

3Isolated tissue: bladder contractionMouse and rat tissue

Laboratory research on isolated bladder tissues from mice and rats suggests CBG may relax bladder muscle and increase bladder capacity [1].

What it cannot tell usThis is pre-clinical evidence in cells and animal tissue, not human clinical proof.

4Animal models: colitis, eye pressure, neurodegeneration and appetiteMice and rats

Animal studies have explored CBG in models of inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, Huntington's disease and appetite loss. Early findings in mice and rats suggest possible effects on intestinal inflammation, intraocular pressure, neuroprotection and feeding behaviour [1].

Inflammatory bowel diseaseGlaucomaHuntington's diseaseAppetite loss

What it cannot tell usThese are animal models only and do not predict human outcomes.

5Laboratory models: MRSA and skin cellsCells and bacteria

In vitro laboratory work on bacteria and isolated skin cells indicates CBG may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties against MRSA and in models of psoriasis [1].

MRSAPsoriasis models

What it cannot tell usThese are laboratory findings in cells or bacteria, not proven human benefits.

5. What does the current human evidence show?

No controlled human trial identified in the cited 2024 review establishes CBG as a treatment for inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, bladder dysfunction, Huntington's disease, bacterial infection, appetite loss or psoriasis [1]. Most condition-related findings come from laboratory, tissue or animal models. A small human trial reported acute changes in some self-rated measures, but it did not establish treatment of a health condition.

Evidence type	What was studied	What it can show	What it cannot show
Human trial	34 healthy adults, single 20 mg dose [2]	No subjective intoxication or measurable impairment; some self-rated changes in anxiety, stress and mood	Treatment of any health condition
User survey	127 CBG-predominant cannabis users [3]	Self-reported experiences and adverse events	Causation, efficacy or accurate adverse-event rates
Isolated tissue	Mouse and rat bladder tissue [1]	Possible relaxation of bladder muscle and increased bladder capacity	Human clinical proof
Animal models	Models of inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, Huntington's disease and appetite loss in mice and rats [1]	Possible effects on intestinal inflammation, intraocular pressure, neuroprotection and feeding behaviour	Human outcomes
Laboratory models	MRSA bacteria, isolated skin cells and psoriasis models [1]	Possible antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties	Proven human benefits
Cell-based drug-metabolism study	AhR/CYP1A pathway in vitro [4]	CBG can affect pathways involved in drug metabolism	The clinical importance of this finding

6. CBG vs CBD: key differences

CBG and CBD differ in plant origin, typical abundance, biological targets and evidence maturity. CBG is usually a minor cannabinoid with much less human research than CBD [1].

SharedBoth CBG and CBD are non-intoxicating cannabinoids.

Plant origin

CBGDevelops from CBGA, the precursor the plant uses to make other cannabinoid acids.

CBDForms when plant enzymes convert CBGA into CBD's acidic precursor.

Typical abundance

CBGUsually a minor cannabinoid. Amounts vary with genetics, maturity and growing conditions.

CBDGenerally more abundant in hemp than CBG.

Biological targets

CBGThought to bind more directly to both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors.

CBDMostly influences the endocannabinoid system indirectly.

Evidence maturity

CBGLimited human research: one small trial and a user survey [2,3].

CBDA much larger human research base [1,2].

Not a ranking. CBG should not be described as stronger than CBD. Receptor activity, milligram strength and consumer experience are different questions, and current evidence cannot rank one cannabinoid as universally more effective [1,2].

Three Naturecan broad spectrum CBD oil bottles in a row on a light marble surface

If CBD's larger research base and wider product range feels like the better starting point, you can browse Naturecan Ireland's CBD oil range here.

7. How might CBG make you feel?

There is no reliable feeling that everyone should expect from CBG. In one small trial, 20 mg did not produce subjective intoxication or measurable impairment during the study period [2]. A separate user survey recorded reports of improved mood, reduced anxiety, increased alertness, improved focus, better sleep, dry mouth, sleepiness, increased appetite and dry eyes, but those reports cannot establish how often a specific CBG product causes each effect [3].

Individual responses can vary with product composition, amount used, other ingredients, medicines and personal factors. Follow the product label. Stop using the product and seek medical advice if an unexpected or persistent effect occurs.

8. Is CBG intoxicating?

No. CBG is non-intoxicating. The controlled trial in healthy adults found no subjective intoxication or measurable impairment after a single 20 mg dose, and product composition still matters [1,2].

9. Is CBG legal in Ireland?

There is no blanket rule that makes every hemp-derived CBG product legal to sell in Ireland. Marketability depends on the finished product's composition, controlled-cannabinoid content, intended use, claims and regulatory category [12-15].

Foods and food supplements

For foods and food supplements, Irish businesses must consider EU novel-food rules. The European Commission's Novel Food Catalogue is an orientation tool rather than an authorisation, and the food business operator must be able to show a history of significant consumption before 15 May 1997 or hold the required authorisation [12,13].

Health claims and medicines

A CBG product must not be presented as preventing, treating or curing disease unless it is regulated and authorised as a medicine. Ireland's HPRA describes separate authorised routes for cannabis-based medicines, while EU food-health claims must comply with the applicable authorised-claims framework [14,15].

Naturecan IrelandNaturecan Ireland products are tested and comply with Irish and EU regulations. Always check the product label and our testing information before use.

10. CBG safety, side effects and medicine interactions

Safety note: CBG's human safety and medicine-interaction profile is not yet well established. Survey findings and laboratory evidence should not be treated as general incidence rates or proven clinical interactions [1,3,4].

Pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied for CBG. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, managing a medical condition or preparing for surgery should follow the product warning and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before use.

There is no well-established general CBG dose for the research topics discussed in this article. Follow the labelled serving instructions for the specific product and do not exceed the stated amount.

Naturecan Ireland's CBD Dosage Calculator can help as a general starting point for thinking through serving sizes, though it is not CBG-specific and does not replace the product label or medical advice.

11. How to choose a quality CBG product

Choose a CBG product by checking the finished batch, not by relying on terms such as 'premium', 'pure' or 'hemp-derived'. An independent certificate of analysis should match the batch number and show the complete cannabinoid profile [16].

Scientist in a lab coat pouring golden hemp extract through a filter into a glass flask, with dried hemp flower in a dish beside it

Independent certificate of analysisLook for a certificate from an independent lab for the finished product [16].
Matching batch numberThe batch number on the certificate should match the batch number on your product [16].
Complete cannabinoid profileThe certificate should show the full cannabinoid profile, not just a single headline figure [16].
Amount per servingCheck how much CBG each serving contains and follow the labelled serving instructions.

Don't rely on these terms alone'premium''pure''hemp-derived'
They describe marketing, not what is in your batch.

12. Frequently asked questions

What is CBG?

What does CBG do?

How does CBG make you feel?

There is no reliable feeling that everyone should expect from CBG. In one small trial, 20 mg did not produce subjective intoxication or measurable impairment during the study period [2]. A separate user survey recorded reports of dry mouth, sleepiness, increased appetite and dry eyes, but those reports cannot establish how often a specific CBG product causes each effect [3]. Individual responses can vary with product composition, amount used, other ingredients, medicines and personal factors.

Is CBG intoxicating?

No. CBG is non-intoxicating. The controlled trial in healthy adults found no subjective intoxication or measurable impairment after a single 20 mg dose, but product composition still matters [1,2].

Is CBG stronger than CBD?

No evidence supports describing CBG as universally stronger than CBD. CBG and CBD have different pharmacological profiles, and CBD has a much larger human research base [1,2].

What is the difference between CBG and CBD?

CBG and CBD differ in plant origin, typical abundance, biological targets and evidence maturity. CBG is usually a minor cannabinoid with much less human research than CBD [1].

What does the research say about CBG's potential benefits?

Most condition-related CBG findings come from laboratory, tissue or animal models. A small human trial reported acute changes in some self-rated measures, but it did not establish treatment of a health condition [1,2-11].

Is CBG legal in Ireland?

There is no blanket yes for every CBG product. The legal position depends on composition, controlled-cannabinoid content, novel-food status, intended use and marketing claims [12-15].

Are there CBG side effects or medicine interactions?

CBG's safety and interaction profile is not yet well established. Survey participants reported dry mouth, sleepiness, appetite changes and dry eyes, while laboratory research indicates possible drug-metabolism interactions that require clinical study [3,4]. Anyone taking prescription medicines should ask a doctor or pharmacist before use rather than stopping or adjusting medication independently.

13. Evidence-led conclusion

CBG is scientifically interesting, but the evidence is not mature enough to support claims that it treats or prevents disease. The most defensible summary as of 2024 is that CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid with limited human evidence. Most findings come from laboratory, tissue or animal studies. One small controlled trial in healthy adults found no intoxication or impairment after a 20 mg dose, and a user survey reported subjective experiences [1-3]. Larger, high-quality human trials are needed to establish whether CBG offers clinically meaningful benefits for any health condition.

Ready to try CBG? Shop Naturecan Ireland's CBG oil and CBG capsules. Prefer to start with CBD instead? Browse the full CBD range.

14. References

References

1. Li, S., Li, W., Malhi, N.K., Huang, J., Li, Q., Zhou, Z., Wang, R., Peng, J., Yin, T. and Wang, H. (2024) 'Cannabigerol (CBG): A comprehensive review of its molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential', Molecules, 29(22), article 5471. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29225471 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
2. Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z.D. and Russo, E. (2024) 'Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial', Scientific Reports, 14(1), article 16163. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
3. Russo, E.B., Cuttler, C., Cooper, Z.D., Stueber, A., Whiteley, V.L. and Sexton, M. (2022) 'Survey of patients employing cannabigerol-predominant cannabis preparations: perceived medical effects, adverse events, and withdrawal symptoms', Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 7(5), pp. 706-716. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0058 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
4. Vrba, J., Havlasek, J., Dostalova, K., Rysava, A., Zapletalova, V., Papouskova, B., Zalesak, B., Storch, J. and Vacek, J. (2026) 'Cannabigerol and cannabidiol differ in their ability to affect the AhR/CYP1A pathway in vitro', Food and Chemical Toxicology, 214, article 116156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2026.116156 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
5. Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., Orriano, P., Battista, G., Pagano, E., Di Marzo, V. and Izzo, A.A. (2013) 'Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease', Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), pp. 1306-1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
6. Colasanti, B.K. (1990) 'A comparison of the ocular and central effects of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabigerol', Journal of Ocular Pharmacology, 6(4), pp. 259-269. https://doi.org/10.1089/jop.1990.6.259 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
7. Valdeolivas, S., Navarrete, C., Cantarero, G., Bellido, M.L., Munoz, E. and Sagredo, O. (2015) 'Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in Huntington's disease: studies in R6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice', Neurotherapeutics, 12(1), pp. 185-199. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-014-0304-0 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
8. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) 'Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb', Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
9. Appendino, G., Chianese, G. and Taglialatela-Scafati, O. (2011) 'Cannabinoids: occurrence and medicinal chemistry', Current Medicinal Chemistry, 18(7), pp. 1085-1099. https://doi.org/10.2174/092986711795029717 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
10. Nacka, F., Ferramola de Smedt, A., Smals, O. and Verhoye, E. (2021) 'Cannabinoids and appetite regulation', Current Medicinal Chemistry, 28(3), pp. 490-506. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867327999200713124156 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
11. Watt, G. and Karl, T. (2017) 'In vivo evidence for therapeutic properties of cannabidiol (CBD) for Alzheimer's disease', Frontiers in Pharmacology, 8, article 20. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2017.00020 [Accessed 1 October 2026].
12. Food Safety Authority of Ireland (2026) 'Regulation of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Hemp-based food products in Ireland'. Available at: https://www.fsai.ie/business-advice/running-a-food-business/food-safety-and-hygiene/food-innovation/cbd-and-other-hemp-products (Accessed: 2 October 2026).
13. European Commission (2026) 'Novel Food Status Catalogue'. Available at: https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/novel-food/novel-food-status-catalogue_en (Accessed: 1 September 2026).
14. European Commission (2026) 'EU register of health claims'. Available at: https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/labelling-and-nutrition/nutrition-and-health-claims/eu-register-health-claims_en (Accessed: 1 September 2026).
15. Health Products Regulatory Authority (2026) 'Medical Cannabis Access Programme: access to cannabis-based medicines or products in Ireland'. Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/regulation/controlled-drugs/medical-cannabis-access-programme (Accessed: 1 September 2026).
16. Naturecan Ireland (2026) 'Our testing processes' and 'Quality assurance'. Available at: https://www.naturecan.ie/pages/testing-processes-and-quality-assurance (Accessed: 1 September 2026).

What is CBG? Potential Benefits,
Effects and How It Compares With CBD

What is CBG and how does it compare with CBD

By Becky Burrows · Reviewed by Paul Holmes · Updated 29 September 2026

At a glance

CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Its acidic precursor, CBGA, is used by the cannabis plant to form several other cannabinoid acids [1].
Human evidence remains limited. One small controlled trial and a user survey sit above a much larger body of laboratory, tissue and animal research [1-3].
CBG and CBD are both non-intoxicating, but they differ in plant origin, typical abundance, biological targets and evidence maturity. Current evidence does not show that one is universally stronger [1,2].
There is no blanket legal position for every CBG product in Ireland. Marketability depends on composition, controlled-cannabinoid content, novel-food status, intended use and marketing claims [12-15].
CBG’s human safety and medicine-interaction profile is not yet well established. Survey findings and laboratory evidence should not be treated as general incidence rates or proven clinical interactions [1,3,4].
When choosing a CBG product, check the amount per serving, cannabinoid profile and a batch-matched independent certificate of analysis [16].

Contents

1What is CBG?
2How is CBG produced in the plant?
3How does CBG work in the body?
4What are the potential benefits of CBG?
5What does the current human evidence show?
6CBG vs CBD: key differences
7How might CBG make you feel?
8Is CBG intoxicating?
9Is CBG legal in Ireland?
10CBG safety, side effects and medicine interactions
11How to choose a quality CBG product
12Frequently asked questions
13Evidence-led conclusion
14References

1. What is CBG?

CBG, short for cannabigerol, is a phytocannabinoid made naturally by Cannabis sativa. The plant first produces cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). Enzymes can then convert CBGA into acidic precursors of cannabinoids including CBD, THC and CBC. Heat or ageing converts the acidic forms into their neutral forms, including CBG [1].

CBG is usually described as a minor cannabinoid because many plant varieties retain relatively little CBG after CBGA has been converted into other cannabinoid acids. The amount varies with genetics, maturity and growing conditions, so a fixed percentage should not be applied to every hemp plant [1].

CBG is not an established treatment for any of the conditions discussed in this article. Most disease-related findings come from cells, isolated tissue or animal models. These studies can identify questions for future clinical research, but they cannot demonstrate a health benefit in people [1,5-11].

Hemp plant containing the cannabinoid CBG

2. How is CBG produced in the plant?

CBG is extracted from the hemp plant using chromatography, broadly the same process used for CBD, but starting from a much smaller amount of raw material [1]. It generally involves three steps: people [1,5-11].

Extract

Hemp is dissolved in a solvent, such as CO₂ or ethanol, which draws the cannabinoids out of the plant.

CO₂ or ethanol

Concentrate

The resulting solution is evaporated under vacuum to remove residual gases, leaving a concentrated CBG extract.

Evaporated under vacuum

Store

The concentrate, and any finished CBG products made from it, are stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight to preserve potency.

Room temperature, out of sunlight

CBG extraction and production process in a laboratory

3. How does CBG work in the body?

4. What are the potential benefits of CBG?

CBG does not have proven consumer health benefits for the conditions below. This section reports what researchers have tested and separates each result by evidence type. None of these studies tested a Naturecan finished product, and preclinical results must not be used to market CBG as preventing, treating or curing disease [1,5-11]. Tap each level to open it.

A 2024 double-blind crossover trial gave 20 mg of hemp-derived CBG or placebo to 34 healthy adults with prior cannabis experience. The study reported reductions in some self-rated anxiety and stress measures and found no evidence of subjective intoxication or motor impairment during the short test period [2].

The trial was small, remote, acute and conducted in healthy adults rather than patients. It does not establish that CBG treats anxiety, stress or any diagnosed condition, and it does not establish the effects of other doses or products [2].

What it cannot tell us

A single dose in healthy adults cannot show that CBG treats any health condition.

A survey of 127 US adults who had used CBG-predominant cannabis recorded why they used it, the effects they perceived and adverse events they recalled. Because the survey had no placebo group, relied on memory and included products with varying composition, it cannot show that CBG caused the reported outcomes [3].

What it cannot tell us

Self-reported surveys are uncontrolled, so they cannot establish causation, effectiveness or how often adverse events really occur.

A 2015 study examined cannabinoid effects on contractions in mouse bladder tissue and isolated human bladder tissue. CBG altered contraction responses in the laboratory, but the study did not give CBG to people or measure symptoms in patients [7].

What it cannot tell us

Tissue samples tested in a laboratory cannot show how CBG would affect bladder function or symptoms in people.

Researchers have tested CBG in a mouse model of colitis [5], an older animal study of intraocular pressure [6], two mouse models relevant to Huntington's disease [9], and a rat feeding study [10]. These experiments help researchers study mechanisms and dosing hypotheses. They do not demonstrate that CBG treats bowel disease, glaucoma, Huntington's disease or appetite loss in humans.

What it cannot tell us

Results in mice and rats do not reliably predict how CBG would work in people, or whether it would be safe.

A 2008 test-tube study found activity from several cannabinoids, including CBG, against selected MRSA strains [8]. A 2007 cell study found that several cannabinoids inhibited proliferation in a human keratinocyte cell line used to investigate psoriasis-related biology [11]. Neither result shows that an oral or topical CBG product treats infection, psoriasis or eczema in people.

What it cannot tell us

Findings in cells and bacteria in a dish cannot show that a CBG product treats any infection or skin condition.

The evidence supports one conclusion: CBG is a research subject, not a proven remedy. The largest gap is not the number of proposed mechanisms. It is the lack of replicated, well-controlled human trials that measure clinically meaningful outcomes [1,2]. steps: people [1,5-11].

5. What does the current human evidence show?

Human CBG evidence is preliminary. A 2024 review found that the evidence base remains dominated by preclinical work, while the small 2024 crossover trial and a prior user survey provide limited human data [1-3]. people [1,5-11].

No controlled human trial identified in the cited 2024 review establishes CBG as a treatment for inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, bladder dysfunction, Huntington's disease, bacterial infection, appetite loss or psoriasis [1]. Most condition-related findings come from laboratory, tissue or animal models. A small human trial reported acute changes in some self-rated measures, but it did not establish treatment of a health condition.

Evidence type	What was studied	What it can show	What it cannot show
Human trial	34 healthy adults, single 20 mg dose [2]	No subjective intoxication or measurable impairment; some self-rated changes in anxiety, stress and mood	Treatment of any health condition
User survey	127 CBG-predominant cannabis users [3]	Self-reported experiences and adverse events	Causation, efficacy or accurate adverse-event rates
Isolated tissue	Mouse and rat bladder tissue [1]	Possible relaxation of bladder muscle and increased bladder capacity	Human clinical proof
Animal models	Models of inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, Huntington's disease and appetite loss in mice and rats [1]	Possible effects on intestinal inflammation, intraocular pressure, neuroprotection and feeding behaviour	Human outcomes
Laboratory models	MRSA bacteria, isolated skin cells and psoriasis models [1]	Possible antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties	Proven human benefits
Cell-based drug-metabolism study	AhR/CYP1A pathway in vitro [4]	CBG can affect pathways involved in drug metabolism	The clinical importance of this finding

6. CBG vs CBD: key differences

CBG and CBD are both non-intoxicating phytocannabinoids, but they are not interchangeable. The clearest differences concern how the plant produces them, how abundant they usually are and how mature the human evidence is [1,2]. treatment of a health condition.

Shared

Both CBG and CBD are non-intoxicating cannabinoids.

Plant origin

CBG

Develops from CBGA, the precursor the plant uses to make other cannabinoid acids.

CBD

Forms when plant enzymes convert CBGA into CBD's acidic precursor.

Typical abundance

CBG

Usually a minor cannabinoid. Amounts vary with genetics, maturity and growing conditions.

CBD

Generally more abundant in hemp than CBG.

Biological targets

CBG

Thought to bind more directly to both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors.

CBD

Mostly influences the endocannabinoid system indirectly.

Evidence maturity

CBG

Limited human research: one small trial and a user survey [2,3].

CBD

A much larger human research base [1,2].

Naturecan CBD oil products used in comparison with CBG

If CBD's larger research base and wider product range feels like the better starting point, you can browse Naturecan Ireland's CBD oil range here.

7. How might CBG make you feel?

There is no reliable feeling that everyone should expect from CBG. In one small trial, 20 mg did not produce subjective intoxication or measurable impairment during the study period [2]. A separate user survey recorded dry mouth, sleepiness, increased appetite and dry eyes, but those reports cannot establish how often a specific CBG product causes each effect [3].

Individual responses can vary with product composition, amount used, other ingredients, medicines and personal factors. Follow the product label. Stop using the product and seek medical advice if an unexpected or persistent effect occurs. a health condition.

8. Is CBG intoxicating?

CBG is generally classified as non-intoxicating, unlike THC [1]. The available placebo-controlled human trial found no evidence of subjective drug effects or impairment after one 20 mg dose, but one small acute study cannot rule out every effect at every dose or in every person [2].

The composition of the finished product matters. A CBG product that contains meaningful THC, is inaccurately labelled or is contaminated cannot be assessed from the ingredient name alone. Check an independent batch certificate of analysis for the cannabinoid profile [16]. occurs. a health condition.

9. Is CBG legal in Ireland?

Foods and food supplements

Health claims and medicines

Naturecan Ireland

Naturecan Ireland products are tested and comply with Irish and EU regulations. Always check the product label and our testing information before use.

10. CBG safety, side effects and medicine interactions

Laboratory research indicates that CBG can affect pathways involved in drug metabolism, including the AhR/CYP1A pathway (a cell-based, in vitro study), but the clinical importance of this finding has not been established [4]. Anyone taking prescription medicines should ask a doctor or pharmacist before using CBG rather than stopping or adjusting medication independently.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied for CBG. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, managing a medical condition or preparing for surgery should follow the product warning and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before use.

There is no well-established general CBG dose for the research topics discussed in this article. Follow the labelled serving instructions for the specific product and do not exceed the stated amount.

Naturecan Ireland's CBD Dosage Calculator can help as a general starting point for thinking through serving sizes, though it is not CBG-specific and does not replace the product label or medical advice.

11. How to choose a quality CBG product

Choose a CBG product by checking the finished batch, not by relying on terms such as ‘premium’, ‘pure’ or ‘hemp-derived’. An independent certificate of analysis should match the batch number and show the measured cannabinoid profile [16].product label or medical advice.

Independent testing of CBG and hemp extract

Independent certificate of analysis

Look for a certificate from an independent lab for the finished product [16].

Matching batch number

The batch number on the certificate should match the batch number on your product [16].

Complete cannabinoid profile

The certificate should show the full cannabinoid profile, not just a single headline figure [16].

Amount per serving

Check how much CBG each serving contains and follow the labelled serving instructions.

Don't rely on these terms alone

'premium' 'pure' 'hemp-derived'

They describe marketing, not what is in your batch.

12. Frequently asked questions

What is CBG?

CBG is cannabigerol, a naturally occurring, non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid. Its acidic precursor, CBGA, is used by the cannabis plant to form several other cannabinoid acids [1].

What does CBG do?

CBG interacts with several biological targets in laboratory research, but those mechanisms do not establish a consumer health benefit. Human evidence remains limited [1,2].

How does CBG make you feel?

CBG does not have one predictable effect. A small 2024 trial found no subjective intoxication after 20 mg, while a separate user survey recorded effects including dry mouth and sleepiness [2,3].

Is CBG intoxicating?

CBG is generally classified as non-intoxicating. One small controlled study found no evidence of subjective intoxication or impairment after a single 20 mg dose, but product composition still matters [1,2].

Is CBG stronger than CBD?

No evidence supports describing CBG as universally stronger than CBD. CBG and CBD have different pharmacological profiles, and CBD has a much larger human research base [1,2].

What is the difference between CBG and CBD?

CBG and CBD differ in plant origin, typical abundance, biological targets and evidence maturity. CBG is usually a minor cannabinoid with much less human research than CBD [1].

What does the research say about CBG's potential benefits?

Is CBG legal in Ireland?

There is no blanket yes for every CBG product. The legal position depends on composition, controlled-cannabinoid content, novel-food status, intended use and marketing claims [12-15].

Are there CBG side effects or medicine interactions?

13. Evidence-led conclusion

CBG is scientifically interesting, but the evidence is not mature enough to support claims that it treats or prevents disease. The most defensible summary as of September 2026 is that one small controlled human trial and observational data sit above a much larger body of laboratory and animal research [1-3].

Anyone considering a CBG product should focus on a batch-specific certificate of analysis, clear labelling and product-specific warnings. People taking medicines or managing a health condition should ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice [3,4,12-16].

Ready to try CBG? Shop Naturecan Ireland's CBG oil and CBG capsules. Prefer to start with CBD instead? Browse the full CBD range.

14. Reference List

References

1. Li, S., Li, W., Malhi, N.K., Huang, J., Li, Q., Zhou, Z., Wang, R., Peng, J., Yin, T. and Wang, H. (2024) 'Cannabigerol (CBG): A comprehensive review of its molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential', Molecules, 29(22), article 5471. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29225471 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

2. Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z.D. and Russo, E. (2024) 'Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial', Scientific Reports, 14(1), article 16163. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

3. Russo, E.B., Cuttler, C., Cooper, Z.D., Stueber, A., Whiteley, V.L. and Sexton, M. (2022) 'Survey of patients employing cannabigerol-predominant cannabis preparations: perceived medical effects, adverse events, and withdrawal symptoms', Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 7(5), pp. 706-716. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0058 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

4. Vrba, J., Havlasek, J., Dostalova, K., Rysava, A., Zapletalova, V., Papouskova, B., Zalesak, B., Storch, J. and Vacek, J. (2026) 'Cannabigerol and cannabidiol differ in their ability to affect the AhR/CYP1A pathway in vitro', Food and Chemical Toxicology, 214, article 116156. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2026.116156 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

5. Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., Orriano, P., Battista, G., Pagano, E., Di Marzo, V. and Izzo, A.A. (2013) 'Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease', Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), pp. 1306-1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

6. Colasanti, B.K. (1990) 'A comparison of the ocular and central effects of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabigerol', Journal of Ocular Pharmacology, 6(4), pp. 259-269. https://doi.org/10.1089/jop.1990.6.259 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

7. Valdeolivas, S., Navarrete, C., Cantarero, G., Bellido, M.L., Munoz, E. and Sagredo, O. (2015) 'Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in Huntington's disease: studies in R6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice', Neurotherapeutics, 12(1), pp. 185-199. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-014-0304-0 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

8. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) 'Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb', Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

9. Appendino, G., Chianese, G. and Taglialatela-Scafati, O. (2011) 'Cannabinoids: occurrence and medicinal chemistry', Current Medicinal Chemistry, 18(7), pp. 1085-1099. https://doi.org/10.2174/092986711795029717 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

10. Nacka, F., Ferramola de Smedt, A., Smals, O. and Verhoye, E. (2021) 'Cannabinoids and appetite regulation', Current Medicinal Chemistry, 28(3), pp. 490-506. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867327999200713124156 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

11. Watt, G. and Karl, T. (2017) 'In vivo evidence for therapeutic properties of cannabidiol (CBD) for Alzheimer's disease', Frontiers in Pharmacology, 8, article 20. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2017.00020 [Accessed 1 October 2026].

12. Food Safety Authority of Ireland (2026) 'Regulation of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Hemp-based food products in Ireland'. Available at: https://www.fsai.ie/business-advice/running-a-food-business/food-safety-and-hygiene/food-innovation/cbd-and-other-hemp-products (Accessed: 2 October 2026).

13. European Commission (2026) 'Novel Food Status Catalogue'. Available at: https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/novel-food/novel-food-status-catalogue_en (Accessed: 1 September 2026).

14. European Commission (2026) 'EU register of health claims'. Available at: https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/labelling-and-nutrition/nutrition-and-health-claims/eu-register-health-claims_en (Accessed: 1 September 2026).

15. Health Products Regulatory Authority (2026) 'Medical Cannabis Access Programme: access to cannabis-based medicines or products in Ireland'. Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/regulation/controlled-drugs/medical-cannabis-access-programme (Accessed: 1 September 2026).

16. Naturecan Ireland (2026) 'Our testing processes' and 'Quality assurance'. Available at: https://www.naturecan.ie/pages/testing-processes-and-quality-assurance (Accessed: 1 September 2026).

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