The Next Generation of Medicinal Cannabis: High-CBG Strains

Cannabigerol, a small non-psychoactive component of cannabis ^[1], shows significant promise as a treatment for glaucoma ^[2], multiple sclerosis and skin diseases, but its mostly unavailable in the medical marijuana market. Does a cheap and natural source exist for this rare medicinal cannabinoid?

All the major cannabinoids in marijuana come from cannabigerol (CBG); enzymes in the trichome ^[3] turn CBG into THC, CBD and CBC ^[4]. Since it’s the precursor for the major compounds, very little of is left over ^[5] in mature flowers. Harvesting early doesn’t necessarily lead to high amounts of CBG; trichome scientists believe CBG gets turned into THC, CBD or CBC almost soon as it gets made.

Medical marijuana patients have access to high-THC ^[6] and high-CBD ^[7] cannabis, but what about high-CBG strains? They are rare ^[8], but they exist.

Certain strains of European hemp (which produces high CBD) can carry a genetic mutation ^[9] that causes the “CBD-gene” to become inactive, and the plant accumulates cannabigerol instead of CBD. Botanists have shown ^[10] this is a recessive trait, but it’s still possible to harness CBG-producing genetics for patients and dispensaries around the world.

While it may take some time, have confidence that CBG-only strains will soon be as available is CBD cannabis. Hybridization between these different types of strains will allow patients to use medicinal cannabis tailored to their needs and preferences in a way people only can dream of today.

Photo Credit: VortexFarmacy ^[11]