CBD and CBG for Good Gut Health - by Billee Sharp

Cannabigerol (CBG) is rapidly emerging as one of the most promising therapeutic cannabinoids and with good reason. Often called the "mother of all cannabinoids," CBG is the precursor from which other cannabinoids like CBD and THC are derived. While THC and CBD are the better recognised  and researched cannabinoids, studies suggest that CBG, particularly in its raw form, may offer profound benefits for digestive health, including relief for those suffering from IBS and Crohn's disease.

CBG and CBD are complimentary cannabinoids, at Synergy Wellness we combine them to reinforce the anti-inflammatory capacity of both compounds. 

What Is Raw CBG?

Raw CBG refers to cannabigerol in its acidic, unheated form: CBGA (cannabigerolic acid). Before cannabis is dried or heated, CBGA is the dominant compound in the plant. Unlike processed CBG, raw CBGA has not undergone decarboxylation, meaning it retains its natural acidic structure. This matters because raw cannabinoids interact with the body differently, often activating pathways that processed cannabinoids do not, and delivering benefits that may be lost during conventional extraction and heating.

CBG and Gut Health: A Powerful Relationship

The gut contains one of the highest concentrations of cannabinoid receptors in the body, particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors, which form part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a critical role in regulating gut motility, inflammation, pain signaling, and the intestinal immune response. CBG binds directly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, positioning it as a uniquely effective tool for gut-related conditions.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is characterized by chronic abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. CBG's interaction with the ECS helps regulate gut motility — the speed at which contents move through the intestines. By modulating these contractions, CBG may help reduce the erratic movement that causes both diarrhea and constipation in IBS sufferers. Its anti-spasmodic properties can also relax intestinal muscle contractions, offering meaningful relief from cramping.

Crohn's Disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. One of CBG's most significant properties is its potent anti-inflammatory action. Research has shown CBG inhibits the production of inflammatory markers, including TNF-alpha and interleukins, which are heavily implicated in the inflammation cycle of Crohn's disease. By downregulating these responses, CBG may help reduce flare-ups, protect the intestinal lining, and support remission.

Raw CBGA, in particular, appears to have enhanced anti-inflammatory potential in the gut due to its ability to interact with TRPA1 and TRPV1 receptors — pain and inflammation channels that are highly active in IBD patients.

Gut Permeability and Intestinal Lining Support

A damaged gut lining — often called "leaky gut" — is a contributing factor in many digestive disorders. CBG has shown promise in supporting the integrity of the epithelial cells that line the intestine, reducing permeability and helping prevent toxins from entering the bloodstream. This is especially relevant for Crohn's patients, where mucosal healing is a key marker of recovery.

Beyond the Gut: Other Health Benefits of CBG

CBG's benefits extend well beyond digestive health:

• Neuroprotection: CBG has demonstrated neuroprotective properties in preclinical studies, showing potential in slowing the progression of neurodegenerative conditions like Huntington's disease and ALS.

• Antibacterial: CBG has shown potent activity against drug-resistant bacteria, including MRSA strains, making it a candidate for future antimicrobial applications.

• Glaucoma relief: CBG reduces intraocular pressure, making it potentially valuable in glaucoma management.

• Appetite stimulation: CBG helps to stimulate the appetite, beneficial for those with conditions causing appetite loss.

• Bladder health: CBG has been studied for its ability to reduce bladder contractions, offering support for overactive bladder conditions.

• Mood and anxiety: CBG inhibits the reuptake of GABA and serotonin, which may contribute to reduced anxiety and an elevated mood without intoxication.

CBG — especially in its raw, unheated CBGA form — represents a compelling natural option for those managing chronic digestive conditions. Its direct action on the endocannabinoid system, combined with powerful anti-inflammatory and gut-protective properties, sets it apart from other cannabinoids. As research continues to accelerate, CBG may well become the go-to cannabinoid for gut health, offering a safer, plant-based complement to conventional treatments for IBS, Crohn's, and beyond.

Selected Sources 

Landmark Preclinical trial advocating CBG for gut health:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295213000543

CBG trial for visceral pain associated with colitis

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022356525097253

Veterans and Cannabinoids - by Nurse Lauren

In honor of Memorial Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices those who serve often carry home with them. The transition from military to civilian life often presents profound physical and psychological challenges for veterans. Chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and severe sleep disturbances are common among those who have served. Historically, conventional treatments have heavily relied on prescription opioids and psychiatric medications, which frequently carry risks of dependency and debilitating side effects. In search of safer, more holistic alternatives, many veterans are turning to minor cannabinoids, specifically cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG). These non-psychoactive compounds derived from the cannabis plant offer promising therapeutic benefits without the "high" associated with THC, making them an appealing option for managing complex, service-related health conditions.

CBD has garnered significant attention for its ability to alleviate anxiety and regulate stress responses. For veterans battling PTSD, intrusive memories and constant hyperarousal can severely degrade quality of life. Research indicates that CBD interacts with serotonin receptors and the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce anxiety and fear expression. Furthermore, CBD helps improve sleep architecture by reducing nightmares and promoting deeper rest. This allows veterans to achieve the restorative sleep necessary for mental recovery. Beyond psychological support, CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Veterans dealing with chronic joint paint, old training injuries, or blast-induced nerve damage often find that CBD topicals and oils, such as our #230 Sesame Oil Tincture (with both CBD and CBG), provide sustained pain relief, lowering their reliance on habit-forming pharmaceuticals.

While CBD is widely recognized, CBG is emerging as a powerful, complementary cannabinoid with unique physiological effects. Often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it is the precursor from which other cannabinoids are formed, CBG interacts directly with both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. For veterans, CBG holds particular promise due to its neuroprotective and antibacterial properties. Emerging studies suggest that CBG may support neurogenesis—the growth of new brain cells—which is highly relevant for veterans recovering from TBIs or concussions.

Additionally, CBG is a potent muscle relaxant and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, meaning it can help reduce physical tension and lower blood pressure during moments of high stress. Our #241 Immunity Capsules (with both CBDa/CBGa), offer a broad spectrum of support for the body’s needs and are an excellent addition to anyone’s healing journey.

When used together, CBD and CBG can create what scientists refer to as the "entourage effect." This phenomenon occurs when cannabinoids work synergistically to enhance each other’s therapeutic properties. For a veteran, a combined regimen might look like using CBD to stabilize mood and manage generalized anxiety throughout the day, while utilizing CBG to target acute physical pain, reduce muscle spasms, and boost cognitive focus. This dual approach addresses the interconnected nature of mind-body trauma, offering a multi-layered shield against the daily symptoms of combat-related injuries.