CBG

CBG (cannabigerol, C₂₁H₃₂O₂, MW 316.48) is the neutral (decarboxylated) form of CBGA and a non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid. Colloquially called a "mother cannabinoid," though that designation more precisely belongs to the acidic form CBGA, which is the true biosynthetic parent. CBG shows weak CB1 and CB2 binding, α2-adrenergic agonism, 5-HT1A antagonism, and TRPM8 antagonism (Cascio et al., 2010, British Journal of Pharmacology 159:129). Preclinical studies report anti-inflammatory effects in murine colitis (Borrelli et al., 2013, Biochemical Pharmacology 85:1306) and antibacterial activity against MRSA (Appendino et al., 2008, Journal of Natural Products 71:1427). An open-label survey (Russo et al., 2022, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research) reported self-perceived benefits for anxiety, pain, and sleep, but no placebo-controlled human trials have yet confirmed efficacy for any clinical indication. → See also: CBGA, Minor cannabinoid, 5-HT1A.