CBG vs CBD: Key Differences Explained

CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors in your body's endocannabinoid system, while CBD (cannabidiol) works indirectly by supporting your natural endocannabinoid levels. This fundamental difference in how they interact with your body explains why CBG is often described as energizing and focusing, while CBD is known for its calming, relaxing effects.

Both cannabinoids are derived from hemp, both are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, and neither will get you high. But they're not interchangeable. This guide breaks down exactly how CBG and CBD differ, what each one does best, and how to choose the right cannabinoid for your needs.

What Is CBG? The "Mother Cannabinoid"

Cannabigerol (CBG) is often called the "mother of all cannabinoids" because its acidic precursor, CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), is the chemical foundation from which all other cannabinoids develop. As the cannabis plant matures, enzymes convert CBGA into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA—the precursors to THC, CBD, and CBC respectively.

CBG is classified as a minor cannabinoid because mature hemp plants typically contain less than 1% CBG by weight. This scarcity makes CBG more expensive to produce than CBD, which is why it's sometimes called "the Rolls-Royce of cannabinoids." However, specialized hemp cultivars bred for high CBG content are making this cannabinoid increasingly accessible.

According to a 2021 review published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, CBG exhibits unique pharmacological properties distinct from both THC and CBD. The compound shows particular promise for neurological conditions and inflammatory disorders, though research remains in early stages compared to CBD.

CBG does not produce psychoactive effects—it will not make you feel high, impaired, or intoxicated in any way.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most abundant non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp plants, typically comprising 15-25% of the plant's cannabinoid content. CBD has been studied extensively since the 1990s and has accumulated the largest body of clinical research among cannabinoids.

CBD's most significant medical validation came in 2018 when the FDA approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, for treating severe forms of epilepsy including Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This made CBD the first cannabis-derived compound to receive FDA approval.

Unlike CBG, CBD doesn't bind strongly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it works indirectly by inhibiting the FAAH enzyme, which breaks down anandamide—one of your body's naturally produced endocannabinoids. By preventing anandamide breakdown, CBD helps maintain higher levels of this "bliss molecule" in your system.

CBD's accessibility, extensive research backing, and lower production costs have made it the most widely available cannabinoid on the market today. You'll find it in oils, tinctures, gummies, topicals, and increasingly in CBD beverages.

CBG vs CBD: How They Work in Your Body

The most significant difference between CBG and CBD lies in how they interact with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). Your ECS is a biological network that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, pain perception, and immune function through two primary receptor types: CB1 (concentrated in the brain and nervous system) and CB2 (found throughout the body, especially in immune tissues).

CBG binds directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, similar to how THC operates—but without the psychoactive effects. This direct binding allows CBG to produce more immediate, noticeable effects that many users describe as uplifting and focusing.

CBD takes a different approach. Rather than binding to cannabinoid receptors directly, CBD modulates how your ECS functions overall. It inhibits the FAAH enzyme, preserving your body's naturally produced endocannabinoids. It also interacts with serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and TRPV1 pain receptors, contributing to its calming and pain-relieving properties.

A 2024 review in Molecules summarized CBG's unique receptor profile: the compound also activates TRPV channels and α2-adrenoceptors, potentially influencing inflammation, pain perception, and cardiovascular function through pathways distinct from CBD.

CBG Benefits vs CBD Benefits

While CBG and CBD share some overlapping benefits—both are non-psychoactive, both have anti-inflammatory properties, and both interact with the endocannabinoid system—they excel in different areas.

CBG Benefits

Research suggests CBG may be particularly effective for focus and mental clarity, antibacterial applications (including against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA), inflammatory bowel conditions, neuroprotection in conditions like Huntington's disease, appetite stimulation, and reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma.

A 2015 study on Huntington's disease models found CBG was "extremely active as a neuroprotectant," improving motor deficits and preserving neurons. While this research was conducted in mice, it highlights CBG's unique therapeutic potential.

Many CBG users report feeling more alert, focused, and clear-headed—effects that make it popular for daytime use when you want to stay productive without feeling sedated.

CBD Benefits

CBD's more established research base supports its use for anxiety and stress reduction, sleep support, chronic pain management, seizure disorders (FDA-approved), inflammation, and general wellness.

CBD's calming properties make it the go-to choice for evening relaxation or managing situational anxiety. Its subtle, soothing effects are often described as "taking the edge off" without impairing cognitive function.

CBG vs CBD: Which Should You Choose?

The best cannabinoid for you depends on what you're trying to achieve.

Choose CBG if you want daytime support without drowsiness, improved focus and mental clarity, an energizing lift to your mood, or antibacterial/gut health support.

Choose CBD if you want help unwinding after a stressful day, support for sleep, relief from anxiety or nervous tension, or a well-researched cannabinoid with established safety data.

Consider both if you want comprehensive endocannabinoid system support. Many people use CBG during the day for focus and productivity, then switch to CBD in the evening for relaxation and sleep. For a deeper dive into how all the major cannabinoids compare, see our complete cannabinoid comparison guide.

Can You Take CBG and CBD Together?

Yes—and many experts believe combining cannabinoids produces better results than using them in isolation. This synergy is called the "entourage effect," a theory suggesting that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other hemp compounds work together to enhance each other's benefits.

Full-spectrum hemp products naturally contain both CBG and CBD (along with other minor cannabinoids), allowing you to experience this entourage effect without taking multiple supplements. Full-spectrum THC drinks often contain measurable amounts of CBG alongside CBD and THC.

If you're using isolate products, you can combine CBG and CBD intentionally: CBG in the morning for focus, CBD in the evening for relaxation. Some users find this approach more effective than using either cannabinoid alone.

Side Effects and Safety

Both CBG and CBD are generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Neither cannabinoid will get you high, impair your judgment, or cause intoxication.

Potential side effects from CBD may include dry mouth, drowsiness (especially at higher doses), changes in appetite, and possible interactions with certain medications (particularly those with "grapefruit warnings").

CBG side effect data is more limited due to less extensive research, but early studies and user reports suggest a similar safety profile to CBD. Some users report mild digestive changes when first using CBG.

When starting with any cannabinoid, the standard advice applies: start with a low dose, observe how your body responds, and adjust gradually. Our dosing guide covers this approach in detail.

Is CBG Legal?

Hemp-derived CBG is federally legal in the United States under the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and hemp-derived cannabinoids containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. This same legislation made CBD legal, and CBG falls under identical regulations.

State laws may vary, so it's worth checking your local regulations—but in most states, CBG products are as legal and accessible as CBD products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does CBG make you high?

No, CBG does not produce psychoactive effects or make you feel high. CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that interacts with your endocannabinoid system without causing impairment, euphoria, or altered perception. You can use CBG products during the day without affecting your ability to work, drive, or function normally.

Is CBG better than CBD?

Neither CBG nor CBD is objectively "better"—they serve different purposes. CBG tends to be energizing and focusing, making it ideal for daytime productivity. CBD is calming and relaxing, making it better suited for evening wind-down or anxiety relief. Many people benefit from using both cannabinoids at different times of day.

Is CBG an upper or a downer?

CBG is generally considered more of an "upper" compared to CBD. Users commonly report that CBG provides an energizing, focusing effect with improved mental clarity—quite different from CBD's soothing, relaxing properties. This makes CBG popular for morning or daytime use when alertness is desired.

What are the downsides of CBG?

The main downsides of CBG are its higher cost (due to low concentrations in hemp plants) and less extensive research compared to CBD. CBG products may cost 2-3x more than equivalent CBD products. Additionally, while early research is promising, CBG hasn't been studied as thoroughly as CBD in clinical settings.

Can you take CBD and CBG together?

Yes, CBD and CBG can be taken together safely. Many experts believe combining cannabinoids produces enhanced benefits through the entourage effect. Full-spectrum hemp products naturally contain both compounds. You can also use CBG for daytime focus and CBD for evening relaxation as part of a complementary routine.

How does CBG make you feel?

Most CBG users report feeling more alert, focused, and clear-headed. The effects are often described as a subtle lift in energy and mood without jitteriness or anxiety. Unlike CBD, which tends to be calming, CBG provides a sense of mental clarity that many find helpful for productivity and concentration.

The Bottom Line

CBG and CBD are both valuable cannabinoids with distinct benefits. CBG binds directly to cannabinoid receptors, producing energizing and focusing effects ideal for daytime use. CBD works indirectly to support your endocannabinoid system, creating calming effects better suited for relaxation and sleep.

For many people, the best approach isn't choosing one over the other—it's using both strategically. CBG in the morning for clarity and focus, CBD in the evening for unwinding and rest, and full-spectrum products anytime you want the benefits of multiple cannabinoids working together.

Ready to explore CBG? Browse our CBG drinks collection to find beverages that fit your lifestyle.