If you have been following us recently, there's a good chance you have heard of our new Panakeia PURE CBG, the first pure CBG flower available on the Canadian market. Named after the greek Goddess of Universal Remedy, Panakeia is praised for its high CBG content and unique therapeutic benefits. But what exactly is CBG, and what makes this non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid so special?
Known as “the mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG is the molecular precursor to all cannabinoids. Produced early within the cannabis plant's growth cycle as an acidic form known as CBG-A, once heated, this unique cannabinoid is broken down into THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) through different metabolic processes. This conversion is why there are often such low quantities of CBG in your average consumer-ready plant that focuses on growing THC or CBD equivalencies.
To understand how exactly CBG works, we first must look at how cannabinoids interact with our endocannabinoid system.
In short, it is within our endocannabinoid system where specific molecules and cannabinoid receptors are responsible for keeping our bodies, specifically our internal physiology, in optimal condition.
The cannabinoid receptors found in the human body are known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 is found in the nervous system and brain, and CB2 is located in the immune system. CBG works by binding to these receptors, which is thought to assist in their functionality.
While the potential benefits of CBG are not yet fully understood, research points toward CBG being not only an excellent alternative for those that use CBD but also has shown promise as an inhibitor to cancer growth and is also recognized as a particularly effective treatment for glaucoma.
Studies have also shown that CBG has been found to reduce the inflammation and production of nitric oxide in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. When analyzing the impact CBG had on Huntington’s Disease, a condition that causes the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, CBG acted as a neuroprotectant, protecting the nerve cells from damage. To top it all off, research shows that CBG is considered to be more effective than CBD in delivering both anti-psychotropic and anti-inflammatory effects.
These newfound potential uses have been enough to inspire researchers and investors alike to spend more R&D budget on what is likely to be another transformative addition to the cannabis market.
We are thrilled to have this incredibly rare cultivar added to our ever-growing portfolio. It is our hope that together, we can bring more awareness and accessibility to minor cannabinoids such as CBG!