How To Use CBG for Energy and Improving Focus
What is CBG?
CBG (Cannabigerol) is one of many minor cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
It’s found most concentrated in young cannabis plants in its raw form (CBG-A), and it’s known as a precursor cannabinoid because as the cannabis plant matures, CBG-A transforms into the more well-known cannabinoids CBD-A and THC-A.
Despite eventually turning into THC, CBG itself isn’t psychoactive, which could make it a more appealing cannabinoid to users who don’t enjoy the euphoric effects of THC products.
CBG hasn’t gained a lot of attention until recently because of advances in cultivation techniques and extraction methods that make it easier to isolate CBG and study its potential wellness benefits.
How Does CBG Work in the Body?
Cannabinoids like CBG (Cannabigerol) work primarily through interactions with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules that help to regulate many physiological processes from learning, memory, sleep, immune response, appetite, and more.
The ECS has two primary types of receptors: CB1 and CB2.
These receptors are found throughout the body. CBG’s unique effects arise from its ability to interact with both receptor types in distinct ways compared to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
CB1 receptors are concentrated in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). CBG interacts weakly with CB1 receptors compared to THC, which is why you won’t get high using CBG. However, this interaction may subtly enhance neurotransmitter activity, where its potential for focus and mental clarity may come from [1].
CB2 receptors are mostly located in peripheral tissues, especially within the immune system.
Some research suggests that CBG’s affinity to CB2 receptors may contribute to its immune-supporting effects, indirectly improving energy levels by reducing physical discomfort [1]. However, we still don’t know much about these interactions, which is why more research is needed.
CBG Effects on Energy
CBG may also affect energy levels through interactions with a GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter [2]. By reducing GABA uptake, CBG may help promote a state of wakefulness, making it easier to concentrate and stay on-task without the jittery effects of caffeine.
Some early research suggests that CBG may influence dopamine levels — a neurotransmitter linked with motivation, focus, and mood [3]. Balanced dopamine levels help maintain sustained attention and internal drive.
Is CBG Energizing or Relaxing?
CBG can be energizing and relaxing, depending on the dose and how your body responds.
CBG is often described at lower doses as energizing, helping to subtly promote focus, clarity, and alertness without the jitters associated with stimulants.
At higher doses, CBG has a calming effect, supporting relaxation and stress relief. Its effects also depend on individual body chemistry, so experimenting with dosage and timing can help you figure out whether CBG works best for energy or relaxation in your routine.
CBG Effects by Dose
CBG vs. CBD: How Do They Compare?
CBG and CBD are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, but they have distinct interactions in the endocannabinoid system.
CBG vs. Other Cannabinoids
CBG is known for its potential to enhance focus, energy, and mental clarity — and even mellowing out some of the intensity of a THC high — by targeting both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
CBD, on the other hand, is more commonly used for promoting relaxation, stress relief, and supporting sleep.
While CBD primarily works by modulating receptors indirectly, CBG binds more directly to these receptors, potentially offering a broader range of effects — That being said, there’s still much more research on CBD compared to CBG, so we’ll have to wait and see how the research evolves.
Both cannabinoids can complement each other, creating a balanced approach to wellness.
Taking CBG + CBD: Better Together
When CBG and CBD are taken together, the positive effects are even more pronounced as the cannabinoids complement each other, called “the entourage effect.”
Those who have experimented with taking both CBD and CBG cannabinoids together — like in full-spectrum hemp products — often report higher concentration levels while feeling calm and relaxed at the same time.
How to Use CBG For Exercise
You can take your CBG gummies or oil before your workouts to support that drive and motivation or after for recovery. CBG binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, supporting energy, motivation, and discomfort relief. This can lead to more effective workouts and make sticking to your fitness goals easier.
If you choose to use CBG before your workout, take a low to moderate amount and wait 15-30 minutes before hitting the gym. After your workout, you can increase the dose to nudge the effects more toward relaxation and unwinding.
Benefits Of Taking CBG In The Morning
Starting your day with CBG can boost energy and focus, aligning with your natural circadian rhythm. Many VIIA customers report feeling more alert and productive, making CBG a great addition to a morning supplement stack for a balanced start to the day.
To start your day with CBG, take a low dose of your preferred CBG product with a light meal to enhance cannabinoid absorption.
Working From Home and Using CBG Products
CBG products can help focus, energy, and productivity when working from home. VIIA customers find that taking the THC-free Flow State Gummies in the morning helps reduce distractions and promotes a sense of calm that makes it easier to stay on task and manage a busy work day.
This formula also includes herbs and natural focus supplements like Lion’s Mane, Alpha GPC, and B12, all encouraging cognition and sustained attention.
For a Limited Time, Vault Products are 60% off! Our original Flowstate Gummies are back from the VIIA Vault. With 25mg CBG and 35mg CBD per Grapefruit-flavored gummy, they deliver calm and focus in every bite.
Can You Use CBG For Managing Stress?
CBG interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood and stress. While more research is needed, some users report feeling calm and balanced after using CBG.
Anxiety is a health condition that comes about when we experience excessive worry, fear, or nervousness. If you’re experiencing anxiety, it’s best to speak with your healthcare professional rather than self-treating with cannabis products.
Are There Any Side Effects of CBG?
CBG is a naturally derived cannabinoid that’s generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite — oftentimes, this is dependent on the dosage.
To mitigate the risk of these side effects, start with a lower dose and gradually work your way up, allowing your body’s natural endocannabinoid system to adjust to the supplemented cannabinoids.
The Takeaway: CBG For Energy and Focus
Hemp-derived CBG products are an exciting way to support energy and focus without the jitters you get from caffeine. They help support mental clarity and sustained energy differently — through the endocannabinoid system, so its effects are much more subtle and can vary depending on the dose and the individual.
To make the most of CBG, start with a low dose in the morning or before tasks that require focus.
Pair it with your existing routine, such as alongside coffee or tea, or use it as a midday boost to stay on track with your busy schedule. You can experiment with timing and dosages to find the best workflow.
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