- CBD
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by gu
CBG seeds are becoming more and more popular among hemp farmers in America. Like CBD, CBG has shown incredible potential as a therapeutic agent. However, CBG faces fewer restrictions regarding cultivation, production, and distribution compared to other more infamous cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
So what is CBG, and is it really as promising as many hemp farmers insist? Today, we’ll look at the chemical structure of CBG along with some of its proposed benefits. We’ll also discuss CBG seed development and how it relates to its astounding appeal among a legal hemp market.
What is CBG?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is one of more than 100 known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Its precursor, CBGa, is the parent molecule from which all other cannabinoids form. CBGa is an acidic, non-active form of CBG that breaks down to form the base molecule of other cannabinoids like THCa, CBDa, and CBCa.
When base molecules like THCa, CBDa, and CBCa become heated, they lose their carboxyl (acidic) atom, thus activating the molecule, altering its effects, and improving its absorption. This process, known as decarboxylation, is the reason that smoking cannabis (or cooking and eating it) may cause a “high” while consuming raw cannabis likely will not.
Decarboxylation is important for non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD and CBG, as well, though. For example, though both CBD and CBDa display anti-cancer properties, they do so in very different ways. Whereas CBD may induce cancer cell apoptosis (cell suicide), CBDa stops metastasis in breast cancer studies.
Researchers believe CBG and CBGa interact differently in the body, as well. However, we need more conclusive research to be sure. We do know, however, that CBG is a potent anti-inflammatory and may affect adrenal and serotonin receptors, as well. We have yet to learn how CBGa differs in its physiological effects.
Why the Sudden Interest in CBG Seeds?
Many call CBGa the “stem cell of cannabis” because it is the precursor to all other cannabinoids. As the plant ages, it develops CBGa, which then transforms into other cannabinoids like THCa and CBDa. The process, called cannabigerolic acid synthesis, occurs quickly as cannabis flowers mature, though scientists have recently produced it in a lab setting, as well.
As an immature cannabinoid, CBG is not listed as a controlled substance as long as it does not come from a restricted part of the plant. To be clear, plants are (usually) only restricted when their potential THC levels top .3 percent. Plants harvested before CBGa converts to THC represent fully-compliant, non-scheduled hemp.
Unfortunately, harvesting hemp before other cannabinoids develop would result in a profound drop in product quantity. That is, of course, unless the plants grow from specially-developed CBG seeds that block further cannabinoid transformation. Plants with this genetic trait experience interruptions along the biosynthetic pathway that prevent CBDa from turning into cannabinoids like CBDa and THCa.
CBG seeds may produce hemp plants with cannabigerol concentrations of 15 percent or more with virtually no THC at all. Some companies report CBG to THC ratios of 100-1 or even 300-1 in some cases.
Best CBG Strains for Hemp Farmers
There aren’t many CBG seeds on the market today. However, those that are available hold some pretty impressive stats. Here are a few of the best CBG seeds in America.
- Stem Cell CBG: This Oregon-born CBG seeds variety was among the first to hit the commercial market. Though relatively odorless, she produces high yields that continually test well below maximum THC levels. Trichome heads from Stem Cell CBG seeds do not become sticky, which makes mass harvest much easier to pull off.
- White CBG: White CBG is a potent strain reaching concentrations of 20 percent CBG in some cases. Bread by Oregon Seed Company, White CBG produces fragrant buds coated in frosty trichomes. This CBG strain boasts a pleasant lemon cream aroma and amazing bag appeal.
- Super Glue CBG: Super Glue CBG seeds produce hemp plants with a kaleidoscope of colors, including purples, greens, and oranges. Flowers grow large and sticky and emit an especially attractive haze perfume. Though it may be hard to find Super Glue CBG seeds at times, the hunt is well worth it. This hemp variety can produce flowers with CBD levels over 22 percent!
Final thoughts About CBG Seeds
There is a reason CBG seeds are so popular. Not only do they have significant potential on the open market, but their cultivation may provide an easy work-around to strict federal hemp cultivation laws.
Have you considered starting a hemp farm? Our expert cannabis and hemp farming consultants would love to help you make a plan. Contact us to learn more.
