You may have heard of the “entourage effect,” the idea that compounds from the hemp plant work better together than they do alone. This synergy is why many high-quality formulas include more than just a single cannabinoid. Two key players in creating this effect are CBG and CBN. While both contribute to a more comprehensive wellness experience, they bring different strengths to the table. This has sparked a lot of discussion around CBN vs. CBG for pain and how to best utilize them. By exploring what makes each one unique, you can better understand how they support the cooling relief of menthol and camphor in topical applications.
CBG and CBN are often overshadowed by the more well-known cannabinoids like CBD and THC, but there are other incredible compounds that deserve attention. In this blog, we’ll explore these lesser-known cannabinoids—cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN)—which, despite their lower popularity, have been gaining recognition for their potential therapeutic benefits.
What Exactly Are CBG and CBN?
CBG: The Ultimate Innovator: Cannabigerol (CBG) has earned the title “ultimate innovator” because it serves as a building block for other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Even though CBG is found in smaller amounts compared to its well-known counterparts, it possesses unique benefits. Studies suggest that CBG may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising option for conditions like arthritis, joint stiffness, and sore muscles. Furthermore, CBG shows promise in inhibiting certain cancer cell growth and may have protective effects on our precious neurons. Exciting possibilities lie ahead for CBG’s therapeutic applications! CBN: The Sleep Champion: Cannabinol (CBN) takes the stage as the “sleep champion” among cannabinoids. It comes into play as the plant ages and undergoes oxidation. CBN is renowned for its sedative properties and is often associated with promoting restful sleep. For those struggling with insomnia or sleep disorders, CBN might be a game changer. Research also suggests CBN helps relieve pain and has antibacterial properties. While more studies are needed to fully understand CBN’s potential, its sleep-inducing and pain-relieving qualities make it an intriguing cannabinoid worth exploring.
How They Interact with Your Body’s Endocannabinoid System
So, how do these compounds actually work? Both CBN and CBG interact with a complex network in your body called the Endocannabinoid System, or ECS. Think of the ECS as your body’s master regulator; it helps maintain balance in essential functions like mood, sleep, appetite, and even how you perceive pain. According to experts at Neurogan, this interaction is key to their supportive effects. By engaging with the ECS, cannabinoids like CBG and CBN can help support your body’s natural processes, which is why they are such valuable additions to wellness routines aimed at comfort and recovery. Understanding this system helps clarify how adding cannabinoids can complement the fast-acting relief of ingredients like menthol and camphor.
The Effects of CBG: What to Expect
CBG is often highlighted for its potential to support the body’s response to discomfort and inflammation. Research suggests that CBG has properties that may help soothe everyday aches and pains. In fact, one survey found that nearly 74% of people using CBG-dominant products reported it was more effective for their pain than traditional medications. This makes it a fantastic supporting ingredient in topical formulas designed for recovery. When combined with proven pain-relievers like menthol and camphor, CBG provides an extra layer of plant-based support, making products like our Extra Strength and Maximum Strength balms a go-to choice for athletes and anyone dealing with muscle soreness after a long day.
The Effects of CBN: What to Expect
While CBG is known for its supportive role in managing discomfort, CBN is often associated with relaxation and calm. It’s popularly recognized for its potential to promote restful sleep, but its benefits don’t stop there. Studies suggest that CBN also interacts with receptors in the body that play a role in reducing pain and inflammation. This dual-action potential makes it an excellent partner to CBG. The calming properties of CBN can be especially helpful for those whose aches and stiffness make it difficult to unwind. By including it in our formulas, we aim to provide not just targeted relief from menthol and camphor, but also a soothing experience that helps your body relax and recover more effectively.
CBN & CBG: The Power of the Entourage Effect
Super Team-Up: CBG, CBN, and the Entourage Effect: What’s even more fascinating about CBG and CBN is how they team up with other cannabinoids and compounds found in the cannabis plant. This collaboration, known as the “entourage effect,” suggests that cannabinoids work better together than on their own. Studies show that combining CBD with CBG and CBN provides greater relief from symptoms than CBD alone. With over 100 discovered cannabinoids, scientists are only beginning to uncover the many health benefits of this naturally growing plant. Exploring the entourage effect opens exciting avenues for developing cannabinoid-based therapies that can maximize its incredible potential.
Why You Should Use CBN and CBG Together
CBG and CBN enhance the entourage effect by contributing their unique benefits to the mix. Their combined use with CBD and THC creates a tailored experience that maximizes relief while minimizing potential downsides. For example:
- A formulation with CBG, CBD, and THC might provide focus and pain relief without overwhelming psychoactivity.
- A blend of CBN and CBD can be ideal for promoting restful sleep while calming the mind.
By understanding and leveraging the entourage effect, researchers and consumers can create more personalized cannabinoid profiles to target specific health and wellness goals. As the science evolves, the potential for these combinations continues to grow, unlocking new opportunities for holistic healing. In essence, cannabinoids like CBG and CBN are vital players in the entourage effect, working in harmony with CBD and THC to provide enhanced therapeutic benefits tailored to individual needs.
What Does the Research Say About CBG and CBN for Pain?
While people have used cannabis for wellness for centuries, scientific research is just beginning to catch up and explain *how* it works. The initial findings on lesser-known cannabinoids like CBG and CBN are incredibly promising, especially for those seeking new ways to manage discomfort. As researchers explore these compounds, they’re uncovering a potential that could change how we approach everyday aches and long-term pain. Let’s look at what the science says and why so many people are paying attention to these powerful plant-based molecules.
The Need for Alternative Pain Solutions
Many people are looking for effective ways to manage pain without the side effects associated with some traditional medications. This has led to a growing interest in plant-based alternatives that can offer support for everything from post-workout soreness to chronic stiffness. A recent study from Yale highlighted this need, suggesting that cannabinoids could offer a safer and more effective choice for managing long-lasting pain compared to conventional options. This shift toward natural wellness is driving the exploration of compounds like CBG and CBN as key components in a modern approach to feeling your best.
Key Findings from Scientific Studies
Emerging research suggests that both CBG and CBN have unique properties that may help manage discomfort. Studies indicate that CBG has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving potential, with one study even suggesting it might be more effective for pain relief than THC. The Yale study found that CBG was particularly good at blocking a protein responsible for sending pain signals in the body. Meanwhile, research on CBN shows it may help reduce muscle pain by interacting with specific receptors in the body that regulate pain and inflammation, offering another targeted way to find comfort.
Reported User Experiences
Beyond the lab, real-world experiences are just as compelling. In one survey, nearly 74% of people using CBG-dominant products reported that it was superior to prescription medications for managing pain. Many users also feel CBG is the most effective cannabinoid for their specific aches. On the other hand, CBN is widely recognized for its calming effects, making it a go-to for those whose pain interferes with sleep. By promoting rest, CBN helps the body’s natural recovery process. This is why you’ll often find CBG and CBN working together in full-spectrum formulas, where they provide added support to proven pain-relieving ingredients like menthol and camphor.
How Are CBG and CBN Made?
Cannabigerol (CBG) and Cannabinol (CBN) are two of the many cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, but their sourcing and extraction processes are distinct due to their unique roles and natural concentrations. Let’s explore how these cannabinoids make their journey from plant to product.
CBG: The ‘Mother’ of All Cannabinoids
CBG is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it serves as a precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. However, its natural abundance in mature cannabis plants is typically less than 1%, making it rare and more challenging to source.
- Selective Breeding: Some cannabis strains are selectively bred to have higher concentrations of CBG, such as those harvested early in their growth cycle before CBG converts into other cannabinoids.
- Extraction Methods:
- CO₂ Extraction: This clean, solvent-free method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull CBG from the plant material.
- Ethanol Extraction: Ethanol acts as a solvent to extract CBG, followed by purification steps to isolate the cannabinoid.
- Purification and Isolation: The crude extract undergoes refinement processes, such as chromatography, to isolate pure CBG for use in products like oils, capsules, or topicals.
CBN: The Cannabinoid That Comes With Age
CBN is not directly synthesized by the plant but forms when THC degrades over time due to heat, light, or oxidation. This makes it unique among cannabinoids and often requires targeted methods to extract.
- Natural Aging: Plants rich in THC are allowed to age and oxidize, naturally converting THC into CBN. This process is sometimes expedited with controlled exposure to heat or UV light.
- Extraction Methods:
- Isolated Conversion: Modern extraction techniques can chemically convert THC into CBN without waiting for natural degradation.
- Solvent Extraction: Ethanol or other solvents may be used to extract CBN from aged plant material.
- Purification: Like CBG, CBN undergoes refinement to isolate the compound, ensuring high purity for product development.
Finding the Right CBG and CBN Products
While CBG and CBN are found in smaller quantities in most cannabis strains, advancements in cultivation and extraction techniques have made it possible to isolate and create products that focus specifically on these cannabinoids. Yet many hemp-based products on the market still only contain CBD. While there are many benefits in CBD isolate, it’s the broad and full-spectrum formulas that create the powerful entourage effect—especially when used topically to relieve pain. These formulas provide the best results when integrated into your wellness routine.
Common Product Types and How They Work
You can find CBG and CBN in various forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals. Each type works a little differently. Ingestible products like oils and gummies are absorbed through your digestive system, offering systemic effects throughout the body. Topicals, on the other hand, are applied directly to the skin for targeted support right where you need it. When you use a topical balm or lotion, the active ingredients get to work on the specific muscles and joints you’re targeting. For even greater support, look for full-spectrum products that contain a range of cannabinoids, including CBG and CBN. These compounds work together to create what’s known as the entourage effect, where each component enhances the properties of the others for a more comprehensive result.
Tips for Finding a Starting Dose
Figuring out the right amount of any new supplement is a personal journey, and the principle of “start low and go slow” is always a good rule of thumb. For ingestible CBG and CBN products, some sources suggest starting with a dose based on your body weight. One common recommendation for CBN is to start with a very low dose, while a medium dose is often suggested for CBG. However, when it comes to topicals, the approach is a bit different. Instead of a precise milligram dose, you’ll want to focus on application. Start by applying a thin layer of the product to the affected area and gently massaging it in. You can reapply every few hours as needed to maintain the soothing and cooling sensations from active ingredients like menthol and camphor.
The key is to listen to your body and see how you feel. You might find that a small amount is all you need, or you may prefer a more generous application for larger areas like your back or legs. The strength of the product also matters. If you’re new to cannabinoid topicals, starting with a regular strength formula can be a great entry point. For those with more persistent discomfort or active lifestyles, an extra or maximum strength blend might be a better fit. To help you decide, you can explore different options and choose the strength that aligns with your daily needs and wellness goals.
The Future of CBG and CBN Extraction
Due to their low natural concentrations, CBG and CBN require innovative approaches to maximize yield. Advances in plant genetics, efficient extraction methods, and synthetic techniques are making these cannabinoids more accessible and affordable for consumers. From careful cultivation to precise extraction, the journey of CBG and CBN highlights the ingenuity behind creating high-quality cannabinoid-based products. These methods ensure that consumers can experience the unique benefits of these cannabinoids in a variety of forms.
Important Considerations for Using CBG and CBN
As you explore the benefits of CBG and CBN, it’s helpful to have a complete picture. Like any wellness product, these cannabinoids come with a few considerations to keep in mind. Understanding potential side effects, the legal landscape, and other practical details ensures you can make informed choices that are right for your body and lifestyle. Being aware of these factors helps you use these powerful compounds safely and effectively, allowing you to focus on your wellness goals with confidence and peace of mind.
Potential Side Effects to Be Aware Of
While CBG and CBN are generally well-tolerated, it’s smart to know about potential side effects, which are often mild and related to dosage. According to Natural Ways CBD, taking too much CBN might lead to next-day grogginess, drowsiness, or dizziness. CBG, on the other hand, can sometimes cause dry mouth, an increase in appetite, or minor stomach upset. The key is to start with a low dose and pay attention to how your body responds. This approach allows you to find the right amount that delivers the support you need without unwanted effects, making your experience a positive one.
Understanding the Legal Status
Navigating the legality of cannabinoids can feel a bit confusing, but it’s pretty straightforward for CBG and CBN. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived cannabinoids are federally legal in the United States as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. CBG generally fits neatly into this category without issue. However, as Neurogan explains, CBN can be a bit more complex because it’s formed from the degradation of THC. Some states have specific regulations around it, so it’s always a good idea to check your local laws to be certain before making a purchase.
How They Affect Drug Tests
This is a big question for many people, especially athletes and professionals in fields with regular testing. In most cases, CBG will not cause you to fail a drug test. CBN is a different story. Because it is chemically similar to THC, there is a chance it could trigger a positive result. It’s also crucial to remember that any product labeled “full-spectrum”—including our Maximum Strength formulas—contains trace amounts of THC by design to create the entourage effect. If you are subject to drug testing, you may want to opt for broad-spectrum or isolate-based products to be safe.
Why CBN Can Be More Expensive
If you’ve noticed that products containing CBN often have a higher price tag, there’s a good reason for it. CBN is considered a minor cannabinoid, which means it exists in very small quantities in the hemp plant. Unlike CBD, which is abundant, CBN must be carefully extracted from aged plant material or converted from THC, making the process much more complex and costly. According to GoodRx, the cost to produce CBN can be significantly higher than for CBD. This rarity and the intensive labor required to isolate it are reflected in the final price of premium wellness products.
So, CBN vs. CBG for Pain: What’s the Verdict?
CBG and CBN, the unsung heroes of cannabinoids, hold great promise in the world of plant-based therapies. From their unique properties and potential benefits to their collaboration with other cannabinoids, CBG and CBN are emerging as remarkable compounds worth exploring. As research continues to evolve, we can expect to see more CBG and CBN-based therapies, offering alternative avenues for those seeking natural solutions to support their health and well-being. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Want to experience the pain-relieving benefits of the entourage effect? Check out our Dragon Broad Spectrum topical, uniquely formulated with a blend of cannabinoids, herbal additives, essential oils, and terpenes. Feel the Power of Nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
So, which is better for my aches: CBG or CBN? It’s less about which one is “better” and more about what kind of support you’re looking for. Think of CBG as the go-to for physical discomfort; research suggests it’s great for supporting your body’s response to soreness and stiffness. CBN, on the other hand, is more associated with promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, which can be incredibly helpful when aches and pains are making it hard to rest. The best part is, you don’t have to choose just one.
Do I need to choose one, or can I use them together? You can, and probably should, use them together! That’s the whole idea behind the “entourage effect.” These compounds work best as a team. When you use a product that contains a variety of cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and CBD, they work in synergy to enhance each other’s supportive properties. This is why full-spectrum and broad-spectrum formulas can offer more comprehensive support than products with just a single cannabinoid.
Will using a topical with CBG or CBN make me feel high? No, you won’t experience any psychoactive effects. When cannabinoids are applied topically, they interact with local receptors in your skin and muscles without entering the bloodstream in significant amounts. Even our Maximum Strength formulas, which are full-spectrum and contain trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%), will not cause a high when used as directed on your skin.
If menthol and camphor provide the relief, why add CBG and CBN? Think of it as building a stronger support team for your body. Menthol and camphor are the heavy hitters—the FDA-approved active ingredients that provide that powerful cooling sensation and temporary relief you feel almost instantly. We include cannabinoids like CBG and CBN to complement that action. These plant-based compounds provide an additional layer of support, working with your body’s natural systems to create a more effective and well-rounded formula for comfort and recovery.
How do I know which product strength is right for me? Finding the right strength is all about matching it to your personal needs. If you’re dealing with occasional soreness or are new to cannabinoid topicals, our Regular Strength formula is an excellent starting point. For those with more active lifestyles or more persistent discomfort, our Extra and Maximum Strength options provide a higher concentration of cannabinoids for added support. It’s always best to start with your specific situation in mind and see how your body responds.
Key Takeaways
- Know Their Supportive Roles: CBG and CBN enhance topical formulas in different ways. Research suggests CBG offers support for physical stress and recovery, while CBN is recognized for its calming properties, making it ideal for helping you relax and recover.
- Choose Formulas with Multiple Cannabinoids: To experience the “entourage effect,” look for broad or full-spectrum products. This synergy means the various plant compounds work together to provide more comprehensive support than one cannabinoid can offer on its own.
- Consider Drug Testing Before You Buy: If you are subject to drug tests, be mindful that full-spectrum products contain trace THC and CBN may trigger a positive result. To stay in the clear, you may want to opt for broad-spectrum or CBD isolate formulas instead.
