What Is CBG? A Complete Guide to the βMother Cannabinoidβ and CBG Oil
Posted by Steve Schultheis on Apr 15th 2025

If you’ve explored CBD products, you may have seen another cannabinoid rising in popularity: CBG, or cannabigerol. Known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG is gaining attention for its potential to support mood, inflammation response, and more — without any intoxicating effects.
In this guide, we’ll break down what CBG is, how it works, its potential benefits, and why CBG oil might be your new favorite plant-based tool for wellness.
Quick Comparison: CBG vs. CBD vs. THC
Feature | CBG | CBD | THC |
---|---|---|---|
Psychoactive? | β No | β No | β Yes |
Found in hemp? | β Yes (in small amounts) | β Yes | β Yes (trace in hemp) |
Legal in the U.S.? | β Federally legal (≤0.3% THC) | β Federally legal (≤0.3% THC) | β οΈ Federally illegal above 0.3% |
Role in plant | Precursor to all cannabinoids | Metabolite | Metabolite |
Common use | Focus, inflammation, clarity | Calm, sleep, recovery | Euphoria, appetite, sedation |
What Is CBG?
CBG (Cannabigerol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in trace amounts in hemp. It's called the “mother cannabinoid” because CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) is the precursor to CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.
In most cannabis plants, CBGA is converted into CBDa or THCa as the plant matures — which is why CBG levels are typically below 1% in raw flower.
Recent innovations in breeding and extraction allow for CBG-rich hemp strains, making CBG oils and concentrates more accessible.
What Is CBG Oil?
CBG oil is made by extracting cannabigerol from hemp and infusing it into a carrier oil like MCT or hemp seed oil. It's often included in broad-spectrum or full-spectrum formulations.
At Steve’s Goods, our award-winning CBG Oils feature full-spectrum cannabinoids, rich terpene profiles, and delicious natural flavors like Blueberry OG and Maui Pineapple.
Explore Our Full CBG Oil Line – Third-party tested, potent, and flavorful.
How Does CBG Work?
CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) by influencing both CB1 and CB2 receptors, helping the body maintain balance in:
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Mood regulation
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Inflammation response
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Sleep cycles
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Appetite
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Immune support
CBG may also enhance the effects of other cannabinoids, making it ideal for synergistic blends.
Potential Benefits of CBG
Benefit Area | CBG's Role |
---|---|
Inflammation | May support anti-inflammatory processes |
Mood & Focus | May promote calm without drowsiness |
Digestive Support | Early research suggests promise for gut health |
Neuroprotection | Under study for potential brain health support |
Skin Health | Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties support skincare |
Pain Management | May influence pain receptors, similar to CBD |
β οΈ Disclaimer: While early research is promising, more clinical studies are needed. CBG is not an FDA-approved treatment for any condition.
Does CBG Make You Sleepy?
CBG is not inherently sedating like CBN, but higher doses may lead to drowsiness. Most users report mental clarity and focus — making it ideal for daytime use.
Tip: Try your first dose in the evening to see how your body responds.
Will CBG Show Up on a Drug Test?
Pure CBG itself won’t trigger a positive THC result, but if you're using a full-spectrum product, trace THC could show up.
To be safe:
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Use broad-spectrum or THC-free products if you’re drug tested
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Always check lab reports (COAs) for cannabinoid content
What Is CBGa?
CBGa is the acidic precursor to CBG, CBDa, and THCa — present in raw, unheated cannabis. When heated or metabolized, it converts into active cannabinoids.
CBGa is being studied for:
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Antioxidant properties
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Anti-inflammatory potential
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Metabolic support
Some products may preserve CBGa using gentle extraction techniques.
CBG vs. CBD: Which Is Better?
Feature | CBG | CBD |
---|---|---|
Research | Still emerging | More established |
Mood support | Focus, clarity, possible energy | Calm, balance, possible sleep aid |
Inflammation | High potential | Well-supported |
Cost | Higher (rarer in plant) | Lower (easier to extract) |
Sleep effects | Neutral to slightly sedating at high dose | Calming, sometimes sedating |
They work even better together. Look for oils that combine CBD + CBG for enhanced effects.
CBG vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
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CBG is non-psychoactive
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THC produces a “high”
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CBG may actually reduce THC’s intensity, making it a useful addition for those seeking balance and clarity instead of euphoria
How to Use CBG Oil
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Sublingual (under the tongue) for faster absorption
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In capsules for convenient daily dosing
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Added to smoothies or drinks (flavored oils work great)
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Topically for skincare
Start with 5–10mg CBG per serving and increase gradually based on your goals.
Can I Use CBG for Sleep?
Yes — while CBG is not a sedative, its balancing effects may support better sleep quality, especially when blended with CBD or CBN.
Try it at night with a relaxing herbal tea or before bed as part of your wellness wind-down.
Where Can I Buy CBG Oil?
At Steve’s Goods, we’ve pioneered the CBG movement since 2016. Our full-spectrum CBG oils and CBG isolates are:
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Sourced from Colorado-grown hemp
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Extracted with precision COβ methods
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Lab-tested for purity and potency
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Naturally flavored with real plant terpenes
Should You Try CBG?
If you’re looking for a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that offers clarity, balance, and potential wellness benefits, CBG might be your new go-to.
Whether you’re new to hemp or already using CBD, CBG adds a powerful layer of support to your routine — especially when combined with other cannabinoids in full- or broad-spectrum blends.
Try CBG Oil from Steve’s Goods — award-winning, potent, and made for results.
Shop CBG Products Now