How CBG And CBD Help With Anxiety: Key Differences Explained
Key Takeaways:
- CBD and CBG Are Non-Intoxicating and Effective for Anxiety: Both CBD and CBG are natural, non-intoxicating cannabinoids that interact with your endocannabinoid system to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- CBD Calms, While CBG Focuses: CBD is ideal for relaxation and better sleep, while CBG enhances focus and mental clarity, making them complementary in managing anxiety.
- The Entourage Effect Enhances Benefits: Using CBD and CBG together creates a synergistic effect, offering a more comprehensive and balanced approach to anxiety relief.
If you’ve been exploring natural remedies for anxiety, you’ve probably come across two popular terms: CBD and CBG. These are compounds derived from hemp that people swear by for their calming effects. While they might seem similar at first glance, they’re quite different in how they work and what they offer.
Here at BATCH, we specialize in crafting high-quality CBD and CBG products, so we know a thing or two about these compounds. With years of experience in the hemp industry, we’re committed to sharing trustworthy, science-backed information to help you make the best decisions for your wellness journey.
In this article, we’ll break down what CBD and CBG are, how they help with anxiety, and how they compare. We’ll also share tips on using them effectively and answer common questions, like whether they make you feel high.
Understanding CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most well-known compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. It is celebrated for its potential to support relaxation, reduce stress, and help with various wellness concerns—especially anxiety.
CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in regulating mood, stress, sleep, and more. When you take CBD, it helps to balance your ECS, which can lead to feeling calmer and more grounded. This is why many people turn to CBD for anxiety, stress relief, and even better sleep.
The Benefits Of CBD For Anxiety
CBD has gained a lot of attention for its potential to ease anxiety—and for good reason. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may help calm the mind, reduce overthinking, and create a sense of relaxation without making you feel groggy or out of it. Here’s how it works:
Reduces Stress Responses
CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system helps regulate stress responses by calming overactive neural pathways in the brain. Specifically, it binds to serotonin receptors, which play a huge role in how you process stress and anxiety. By reducing your cortisol levels (the “stress hormone”), CBD can make you feel less overwhelmed and more in control during tough situations.
Promotes Better Sleep
Anxiety often keeps your mind racing at night, making it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. CBD’s calming effects can help relax your mind and body, setting the stage for more restful, uninterrupted sleep. Better sleep isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a crucial part of managing anxiety because lack of rest can make those anxious feelings even worse.
Supports A Balanced Mood
CBD helps balance your mood by enhancing the activity of your ECS, which keeps things like anxiety, mood swings, and irritability in check. It does this by influencing receptors linked to serotonin, often called the “feel-good” chemical. This balance doesn’t mean you’ll feel artificially happy; instead, it helps you feel more emotionally steady and less reactive to stress.
Non-Habit Forming
Unlike some prescription medications, CBD doesn’t create a dependency, even with regular use. This means you can take it daily without worrying about withdrawal symptoms or needing higher doses over time. For people looking for a natural alternative to manage anxiety, this makes CBD a safer and more sustainable option.
What Is CBG?
Often called the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG (Cannabigerol) is actually the precursor to many other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. In the early stages of the cannabis plant’s growth, CBG exists in abundance, but as the plant matures, most of it converts into other compounds. This is why CBG is usually found in smaller amounts compared to CBD.
Like CBD, CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), but it binds to different receptors. This unique interaction means it might have slightly different effects, making it worth exploring for anxiety and other health benefits.
The Benefits Of CBG For Anxiety
CBG is earning its place in the spotlight for its unique benefits, especially when it comes to managing anxiety. While it shares some similarities with CBD, its effects can be distinct. Here’s how CBG may help reduce anxiety:
Directly Targets Anxiety Receptors
CBG interacts directly with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain, which are key parts of your endocannabinoid system. These receptors influence how your body handles stress, mood, and emotional balance. By binding to these receptors, CBG can help calm overactive neural responses, reducing the racing thoughts and physical tension that often come with anxiety.
Enhances Focus And Clarity
Unlike some calming remedies that might leave you feeling drowsy, CBG has been reported to promote a sense of alert relaxation. It can help sharpen your focus while still keeping stress in check, making it easier to tackle the tasks that might otherwise feel overwhelming. This combination of calm and clarity can be a game-changer for people whose anxiety affects their productivity.
May Support Neurotransmitter Balance
CBG’s potential to influence serotonin—a neurotransmitter that regulates mood—is particularly exciting for anxiety relief. Low serotonin levels are often linked to anxiety and depression, and CBG might help your brain maintain a healthier balance. This effect could work similarly to some antidepressants but without the side effects or dependency risks.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
CBG’s anti-inflammatory properties don’t just benefit the body—they might also improve brain health. Chronic inflammation has been connected to anxiety, especially when it involves the gut-brain axis, a pathway that links gut health to emotional well-being. By reducing inflammation, CBG may create a healthier baseline for both physical and mental balance.
Key Differences Between CBG And CBD
While both CBD and CBG are cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, they have distinct properties and effects that set them apart:
How They Work In The Body
CBD works indirectly by interacting with receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, promoting balance and reducing anxiety without directly binding to the system’s primary receptors, CB1 and CB2. On the other hand, CBG binds directly to these receptors, which may result in a more targeted and noticeable impact on mood and stress levels.
Availability And Concentration
CBD is much more abundant in hemp and cannabis plants, making it easier and more cost-effective to extract. This abundance is one reason why CBD products are more widely available and generally affordable. In contrast, CBG exists in smaller quantities, as much of it converts into other cannabinoids like CBD and THC as the plant matures. This rarity often makes CBG products harder to find and more expensive.
Effects On The Mind And Body
CBD is well-known for its calming and relaxing effects, making it a popular choice for reducing stress and improving sleep. CBG, however, is often linked to enhancing focus and mental clarity. For individuals whose anxiety manifests as mental fog or difficulty concentrating, CBG may be especially beneficial.
Research Stage
CBD has been extensively studied, with a large body of research supporting its use for anxiety and other conditions. Clinical trials and user experiences back its effectiveness. CBG, in contrast, is still in its early stages of research. While initial findings are promising, especially for its potential in stress and anxiety relief, there’s less scientific data compared to CBD.
How CBG And CBD Can Work Together To Ease Anxiety
One of the most exciting aspects of CBG and CBD is how they can complement each other to provide a more comprehensive approach to anxiety relief. When used together, they create what’s called the entourage effect—a synergistic interaction where their combined effects are greater than when used separately. Here’s how this teamwork plays out:
Balancing Relaxation And Focus
CBD is well-known for its ability to calm the mind, making it easier to relax and let go of anxious thoughts. However, some people find that CBD alone can leave them feeling a little too mellow, especially during the day when they need to stay sharp. This is where CBG comes in—it provides a sense of mental clarity and focus, balancing out the relaxation from CBD so you can feel calm but still alert and productive.
Different Receptor Targets
CBD and CBG interact with different receptors in the endocannabinoid system. CBD’s indirect action stabilizes overall mood, while CBG’s direct receptor binding provides a quick and noticeable reduction in stress. Together, they cover more ground in calming both the mind and body.
Boosting Serotonin Levels
Both CBD and CBG have been linked to boosting serotonin, the brain chemical that plays a key role in mood regulation. While CBD promotes serotonin balance through indirect interaction with your brain’s receptors, CBG seems to take a more active role in supporting this important neurotransmitter. Together, they may help stabilize mood swings and create a more positive, stable emotional state—great for combating the ups and downs of anxiety.
Reducing Physical And Mental Tension
Anxiety doesn’t just affect the mind—it often shows up in the body, causing tight muscles, headaches, or that all-too-familiar knot in your stomach. CBD helps relax the body by reducing tension and promoting a sense of calm, which can feel like a big sigh of relief. Adding CBG to the mix may enhance this effect by reducing inflammation and easing physical discomfort, helping you feel more at ease both mentally and physically.
Do CBG And CBD Cause A High?
No, neither CBG nor CBD will make you feel high. Both compounds are non-intoxicating, as opposed to THC, the compound in cannabis responsible for the high.
Both CBG and CBD are safe to use during the day, at work, or whenever you need relief from anxiety, as they won’t impair your ability to think clearly or perform daily tasks. If you’re looking for natural relief without unwanted side effects, these cannabinoids are a solid choice.
How To Take CBG And CBD For Maximum Effectiveness
If you want to try CBG, CBD, or both, it’s important to know how to use them effectively. The right method and dosage can make a big difference in how well they work for your anxiety. Here are some tips to get started:
Choose The Right Form
- Oils and Tinctures: These are popular because you can easily adjust the dosage. Place a few drops under your tongue for faster absorption into the bloodstream.
- Capsules: A convenient option for consistent dosing, especially if you’re on the go.
- Gummies: Tasty and easy to take, but they may take a bit longer to kick in since they go through digestion.
- Vapes: Provide the quickest effect but might not be suitable for everyone.
Start Low And Go Slow
When trying CBD or CBG for the first time, it’s wise to begin with a low dose—typically 5-10 mg. This allows you to gauge how your body reacts without overdoing it. Gradually increase your dose until you find what works best for you. If you’re using both CBG and CBD, consider starting with an equal ratio (like a 1:1 blend) and adjust the proportions based on how each affects you.
Timing Matters
The timing of your doses can also affect how well CBD and CBG work for anxiety. For example, CBD is often best taken in the evening, especially if your anxiety disrupts your sleep, as it promotes relaxation. CBG, however, is better suited for daytime use because it can enhance focus and mental clarity. If you’re combining the two, experiment with different schedules to see what fits your needs best.
Be Consistent
Incorporating CBD and CBG into your daily routine is crucial for achieving long-term benefits. While you may feel some effects right away, regular use allows your endocannabinoid system to maintain balance more effectively over time. Consistency ensures that you get the most out of these cannabinoids.
Pay Attention To Quality
Not all CBD and CBG products are created equal, so always look for high-quality options. Choose products that are third-party tested to ensure they are free of contaminants and accurately labeled. Organic products are also a great choice to avoid harmful pesticides or chemicals. A higher-quality product will lead to better, more reliable results.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with anxiety can be tough, but natural options like CBD and CBG can help. While both cannabinoids have their unique strengths—CBD for relaxation and CBG for focus—they shine brightest when used together, creating a synergistic effect that tackles anxiety from multiple angles.
Whether you’re just starting with CBD, exploring CBG, or considering a combination of both, the key is finding what works best for you. Start with small doses, experiment with timing, and choose high-quality products to ensure the best experience.
Read also:
- How CBG Can Be The Natural Solution For Anxiety Relief
- Will CBG Show Up On A Drug Test?
- What Is CBG Good For? Exploring The Benefits Of The Mother Of All Cannabinoids
Frequently Asked Questions About CBG And CBD For Anxiety
What is the appropriate dosage of CBD and CBG for anxiety?
For anxiety, start with 5-10 mg of CBD or CBG per dose and increase gradually based on how you feel. A common range is 10-50 mg daily, but everyone’s needs differ. When combining CBD and CBG, a 1:1 ratio (equal amounts of both) is a great starting point.
Can you take CBG and CBD together?
Yes, you can take CBG and CBD together! In fact, combining them often enhances their benefits through the entourage effect, where the two cannabinoids work synergistically to reduce anxiety and stress more effectively.
Should I take CBD if I have anxiety?
Absolutely. CBD is one of the most popular natural options for managing anxiety, helping to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation without the risk of intoxication or dependence.
Is CBG more relaxing than CBD?
CBG is not necessarily more relaxing than CBD—it tends to enhance focus and clarity, making it better suited for daytime use. CBD, on the other hand, is more well-known for its relaxing and calming properties.
Is CBD or CBN better for anxiety?
For anxiety, CBD is generally better. CBN is more sedative and often used for sleep issues rather than daytime anxiety relief. However, CBN might help if anxiety is linked to poor sleep.
How quickly does CBD calm anxiety?
CBD can start calming anxiety within 15-30 minutes when taken sublingually (under the tongue) as an oil or tincture. Edibles like gummies may take up to 1-2 hours due to digestion.
What type of CBD is best for anxiety?
Full-spectrum CBD is often considered best for anxiety because it contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes that enhance its calming effects. However, broad-spectrum or CBD isolate can work well if you want to avoid THC entirely.
Will CBG make me sleepy?
No, CBG is unlikely to make you sleepy. It’s more known for its uplifting and focus-enhancing properties, making it suitable for daytime use.
Can you take CBG every day?
Yes, you can safely take CBG every day. Regular use can help maintain a balanced endocannabinoid system, improving its long-term effectiveness for anxiety and other health concerns.
How long does CBD and CBG last?
The effects of CBD and CBG typically last 4-6 hours, depending on the dose, method of consumption, and individual metabolism.
Sources:
- Henley, D., Lightman, S., & Carrell, R. (2016). Cortisol and CBG—Getting cortisol to the right place at the right time. Pharmacology & therapeutics, 166, 128-135.
- Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836.
- Nachnani, R., Raup-Konsavage, W. M., & Vrana, K. E. (2021). The pharmacological case for cannabigerol. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 376(2), 204-212.