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In recent years, cannabinoids have taken over the health and wellness supplement market. Cannabinoids are active compounds in the cannabis plant; they have been associated with a variety of potential benefits, including reducing inflammation, relieving chronic pain, easing anxiety, and boosting sleep quality.
CBD and CBG are two popular cannabinoids. They are often used together in cannabinoid supplements as this can trigger the “entourage effect,” a phenomenon whereby the effects of cannabinoids are amplified beyond what they would be alone. Plus, each cannabinoid brings with it its own unique potential benefits.
With so many CBD and CBG supplements on the market — including gummies, oils, capsules, vapes, and more — it’s not easy to know where to start.
We’ve rounded up some of the best CBD and CBG supplements for 2023 and provided more information about the hemp extracts so you can make an informed decision about the products you buy.
- Best Overall CBD and CBG Product for 2023: CBDfx CBD + CBG Oil Wellness Tincture
- Best Tasting CBD and CBG Oil: Batch CBG Oil
- Best Organic CBD and CBG Oil: Joy Organics CBD + CBG Tincture
- Best CBD and CBG Gummies: Extract Labs CBG Gummies Cognitive Support
- Best Full-Spectrum CBD and CBG Oil: CBDistillery Daytime Synergy CBG + CBD Tincture
- Best CBG Gummies for Relaxation: Medterra Relax Now Fast-Acting Gummies
- Most Potent CBG Oil: Lazarus Naturals CBG Tincture
- Most Potent CBG Gummies: Slumber Sleep Aid Extra Strength CBG Gummies
- Best Budget-Friendly CBG Gummies: Koi CBG + CBC Gummies
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol, i.e., CBG, is one of the cannabinoids — and active compounds — found in cannabis and hemp. Unlike THC (the cannabinoid responsible for causing a “high”), CBG is not overtly psychoactive and has no intoxicating effects for most people.
CBG is often called “the mother of all cannabinoids,” and it is the cannabinoid from which all others are derived. Therefore, since CBG is the starting compound of the hemp and cannabis plants, it’s the young plants that are used to source CBG, as once the plant has matured, there isn’t much left.
Benefits of CBG
CBG and CBD are often combined in supplements as they work in synergy to produce better perceived results.
When it comes to the benefits of CBG alone, there needs to be more scientific research since it is currently lacking. Early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest the potential benefits of CBG include:
- Easing chronic pain
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving sleep quality and quantity
- Boosting appetite
Research studies into CBG have been primarily carried out on animals, but they have suggested that CBG may be able to improve several health conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, bladder dysfunctions, glaucoma, Huntington’s disease, and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
Furthermore, researchers are currently investigating whether CBD may be beneficial in protecting against certain types of cancer when used in combination with CBD, although human trials are scarce.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, otherwise known as CBD, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in the hemp and cannabis plants. Like CBG, CBD is also mostly non-psychoactive, although everyone is different
CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoids on the supplement market due to its association with several potentialwellness benefits, the multiple ways it can be applied or ingested, and its favorable legal status.
Benefits of CBD
CBD research is still growing, but early studies suggest CBD may benefit your mental and physical health in a variety of ways, including:
- Easing anxiety and depression
- Relieve pain and reducing inflammation
- Inhibit arthritis symptoms
- Reducing PTSD symptoms
- Treat withdrawal symptoms
- Protect against neurological disease
Furthermore, CBD can be used in the treatment of epileptic seizures. In 2018, the FDA approved the use of the CBD drug, Epidolex, to treat seizures resulting from Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome — two rare forms of epilepsy — in those over two years of age. Studies into the drug have shown that Epidolex decreases the frequency of patients’ seizures when compared to a placebo.
CBG vs CBD
CBG and CBD are similar compounds, but there are slight differences in the molecular makeup, which can lead to differences in the effects each cannabinoid has on the body. Let’s take a look at some of the similarities and differences between CBD and CBG.
Similarities
CBG and CBG are both:
- Non-psychoactive i.e. don’t produce a “high,” at least for most people
- Believed to have possible anti-inflammatory action
- Hypothesized to work by interacting with the same receptors in the brain and nervous system.
- May counteract THC’s psychotropic effects
Differences
There are a couple of ways in which these two cannabinoids differ, including:
- CBD is believed to act as an appetite suppressant, while CBG is more likely to be an appetite stimulant
- CBD is a major cannabinoid, while CBG is a minor cannabinoid, which basically means that CBD is found in much higher concentrations
Best CBG and CBD Products in 2023
These are some of our favorite products that you can get to reap the benefits of CBD and CBG.
Best Overall CBD and CBG Product for 2023: CBDfx CBD + CBG Oil Wellness Tincture
Pros:
- 2:1 ratio of CBD to CBG
- Antioxidants curcumin and coenzyme Q10
- Vegan and gluten-free
Specs:
- Size: 60mL
- Strength: 1000mg of CBD + 500mg of CBG, 2000mg of CBD + 1000mg of CBG, 4000mg of CBD + 2000mg of CBG, and 6000mg of CBD + 3000mg of CBG
- Flavor: Unflavored
Containing a 2:1 ratio of broad-spectrum CBD to CBG, the Wellness Tincture from CBDfx also contains extra cannabinoids, including CBC and CBN, to stimulate the “entourage effect” (which is a phenomenon where the therapeutic compounds work synergistically to boost the overall effects). Plus, a proprietary terpene blend helps increase absorption and efficacy.
The tincture also includes two powerful antioxidants: curcumin and coenzyme Q10. Curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric, which has possible anti-inflammatory benefits potentially helping with chronic pain conditions. Our levels of coenzyme Q10 decrease as we age, so supplementing with the antioxidant can help prevent free radical damage within the body.
Available in four strengths, the Wellness Tincture is made from all-natural ingredients, and the formulation is gluten-free and 100% vegan. Third-party lab testing confirms the potency and purity of the tincture, but if you’re unsatisfied for whatever reason, you’re protected by a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Best Tasting CBD and CBG Oil: Batch CBG Oil
Pros:
- 1:1 CBD to CBG ratio
- Vegan formula
- No GMOs, pesticides, or parabens
Specs:
- Size: 30mL
- Strength: 1000mg of CBD + 1000mg of CBG and 2000mg of CBD + 2000mg of CBG
- Flavor: Citrus
Batch crafted its 1:1 blend of CBG and CBD for those who want to experience all the benefits the hemp plant has to offer. The two powerful cannabinoids are blended with a terpene blend of limonene, caryophyllene, and pinene, which may help promote relaxation, and potentially provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.
The formulation is simple and all-natural, boosted with orange and lemon oil to give a fresh, citrus-like taste. Suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements, Batch’s CBG Oil is vegan, non-GMP, and free of gluten, dairy, soy, and seed oils.
Available in two potencies, each bottle comes with a graduated dropper, so you can deliver a precise dose under your tongue. If you enjoy the effects of the CBG oil you can save 25% with a subscription.
Proudly crafted in Wisconsin with extracts from American-grown hemp, each batch is third-party tested to verify the potency of cannabinoids is as advertised and that it is free of contaminants and impurities, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and microbes.
Best Organic CBD and CBG Oil: Joy Organics CBD + CBG Tincture
Pros:
- 1:1 ratio of CBD to CBG
- Organic formulation
- Vegan
Specs:
- Size: 30mL
- Strength: 450mg of CBG and 450mg of CBD
- Flavor: Mint
Melt away the stresses of the day and find calm for a good night’s sleep with Joy Organics’ CBG + CBD Tincture. The two cannabinoids work in tandem to support physical and mental well-being.
The sweet mint flavor makes this oil extremely versatile. It can be taken directly under the tongue, or added to your favorite dessert or nighttime beverage for a tasty and relaxing treat. You don’t need to worry about artificial flavors, as the minty taste comes from organic peppermint essential oil. In fact, the entire formulation is made up of organic ingredients.
Each bottle contains 30 servings of 15mg of CBG and 15mg of CBD. Like all the products from Joy Organics, each batch of the CBG + CBD Tinctures is extensively third-party tested by third-party labs for both potency and purity.
If you’re not satisfied with the products from Joy Organics, you can take advantage of a 90-day money-back guarantee. On the other hand, if you love how the CBG oil makes you feel, you can save 20% on a subscription.
Best CBD and CBG Gummies: Extract Labs CBG Gummies Cognitive Support
Pros:
- 1:1 ratio of CBG and CBD
- Certified organic ingredients
- Vegan and non-GMO
Specs:
- Size: 30 count
- Strength: 33mg of CBD and 33mg of CBG per gummy
- Flavor: Lemonade, mixed berry, and orange cream
Add some focus to your day with the Cognitive Support CBG Gummies from Extract Labs. Each gummy contains a convenient dose of 33mg of CBD and 33mg of CBG, which work together to potentially sharpen the mind, relieve tension, and improve your overall sense of wellness.
The sugar-coated gummies are made with natural ingredients and come in various fruity flavors, making them a great choice if you have a sweet tooth.
Made with broad-spectrum hemp extract from American-grown plants and thoroughly third-party tested for potency and purity, you can be sure you’re getting a product with these CBD gummies. If you agree, you might consider signing up for a subscription and saving between 15 and 25%.
Best Full-Spectrum CBD and CBG Oil: CBDistillery Daytime Synergy CBG + CBD Tincture
Pros:
- 1:1 CBG and CBD
- 100% clean ingredients
- Vegan
Specs:
- Size: 30mL
- Strength: 500mg CBG and 500mg of CBD per bottle
- Flavor: Unflavored
Achieve mental clarity with CBDistillery’s Daytime Synergy CBG + CBD Tincture. Each bottle contains 1000mg of full-spectrum hemp extract, which includes 500mg of CBG and 500mg of CBD, as well as plant terpenes and omega oils. Packed full of natural compounds, the tincture may help calm and clear the mind by possibly reducing stress and easing the symptoms of anxiety.
CBDistillery’s tinctures also contain fractionated coconut oil (MCT), which improves the bioavailability of CBD and CBG for faster and better results. The simple formulation is 100% natural and unflavored, for those who are happy with a no-frills, yet top-quality, cannabinoid supplement.
The brand is completely transparent about the manufacturing process and its products, offering comprehensive lab testing to ensure purity, quality, and consistent serving sizes on its entire line of cannabinoid supplements.
Best CBG Gummies for Relaxation: Medterra Relax Now Fast-Acting Gummies
Pros:
- CBG and other calming ingredients
- Natural formulation
- Nanotechnology for fast-action
Specs:
- Size: 30 count]
- Strength: 5mg of CBG per gummy
- Flavor: Citrus or topical
If you’re looking for a way to relax quickly when times are tough, check out the Relax Now Fast-Acting Gummies from Medterra. Advanced nanotechnology delivers soothing CBG, amino acids, and calming plant extracts into your system quickly for effects you can feel in as little as 10 minutes.
GABA helps to calm the brain and slow down the central nervous system, L-theanine may help improve mood and maintain normal sleep, and Skullcap may help reduce inflammation and promote sleep.
The gummies are packed full of natural flavors, and you can choose from fresh and zingy citrus or sweet and exotic tropical. If you enjoy the confectionary-grade taste and the swift action of the gummies, you can save 30% with a regular subscription, which you can pause or cancel at any time.
Most Potent CBG Oil: Lazarus Naturals CBG Tincture
Pros:
- Simple, natural formulation
- Vegan and gluten-free
- MCT oil for fast absorption
Specs:
- Size: 30mL or 60mL
- Strength: 50mg of CBG per 1ml
- Flavor: Unflavored
For those days when you need an extra boost of energy throughout the day or some extra help to wind down in the evening, reach for the CBG Tincture from Lazarus Naturals.
In every 1mL of the tincture, you get a potent dose of 50mL of CBG and nothing else. The formulation is as simple as it gets made up of two ingredients, CBG isolates and organic MCT oil, to help boost absorption and give a subtle coconut flavor. Plus, CBD isolate guarantees that there will be absolutely no THC present.
Each batch of CBG tincture is tested in independent labs to ensure that the potency is as advertised and that the oil is free of contaminants and toxins such as heavy metals, pesticides, and potentially harmful microbes.
Most Potent CBG Gummies: Slumber Sleep Aid Extra Strength CBG Gummies
Pros:
- Sustainably-grown hemp
- All-natural formulation
- 100% vegan
Specs:
- Size: 30 count
- Strength: 30mg of CBG per gummy
- Flavor: Green apple
Packed with high potency CBG, the CBG gummies from Slumber Sleep Aid are designed specifically to enhance cognitive function, uplift mood, and promote a healthy inflammation response.
Each apple-flavored gummy contains 30mg of CBG to help potentially boost your focus, ease pain, and improve your sense of well-being. Plus, as they are crafted with minimal sugar and natural ingredients, these gummies are a great guilt-free indulgence.
Enjoy each gummy with confidence, knowing the gummies are completely vegan, made with quality CBG extracted from sustainably-grown hemp, and are independently tested for potency and purity. Plus, when taken as recommended, the gummies are non-habit forming and have no negative side effects. However, if the gummies don’t meet your standards, Slumber Sleep Aid offers a 30-day guarantee.
Best Budget-Friendly CBG Gummies: Koi CBG + CBC Gummies
Pros:
- CBG and CBC
- Third-party lab tested
- Vegan
Specs:
- Size: 20 count
- Strength: 15mg of CBG and 15mg of CBC per gummy
- Flavor: Fruit punch
These gummies from Koi CBD feature a blend of two beneficial cannabinoids: CBG for potential focus and mental clarity, and CBC for possibly calming the mind and boosting mood. Each gummy contains 15mg of each cannabinoid, as well as beneficial terpenes from the full-spectrum extract.
Deliciously flavored, the fruit punch taste and light sugar coating are likely to suit most palettes and the vegan and non-GMO formulation will fit in with the majority of diets. If the flavor isn’t to your taste, Koi CBD offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Transparency is important to Koi CBD, and therefore the entire product line is sent for independent lab testing to ensure the quality, potency of cannabinoids, and purity.
How We Picked the Best CBG and CBD Products
There are several factors we took into account to make sure we were recommending only the best CBG and CBD supplements.
Quality ingredients
A quality cannabinoid supplement starts with a quality hemp extract. Therefore, we only chose CBD or CBG supplements from brands that sourced their hemp extract from domestically grown hemp. We favored brands that used growers that use organic farming practices as it guarantees a non-GMO plant and a pesticide and herbicide-free product.
Plus, we made sure all the supplements we recommended have simple and natural formulations with no artificial bulking agents, fillers, colors, or flavors. Artificial additives can increase the risk of adverse or allergic reactions, so we erred on the side of caution.
Production Process
We only selected products from brands that are manufactured in facilities with cGMP (current good manufacturing practice). Adherence to cGMP regulations guarantees the quality, potency, and purity of products.
The way cannabinoids are extracted from the hemp plant can also impact the quality of a supplement. CO2 extraction is our preferred method as it is a clean and efficient process where pressurized CO2 is used to extract hemp extract.
Solvent extraction is a cheaper process, but there is the risk of residual solvents in the hemp extract. Therefore, if a product we selected included solvent-extracted hemp extract, we checked independent test results to ensure there were no solvents present.
Reviews
It’s important that we only recommend products from trustworthy brands, and customer reviews provide key insights into the reliability of a brand and the efficacy of its products. To accomplish this, we read through dozens of real reviews to check the benefits people experienced from CBD and CBG supplements, as well as looking into their thoughts of the flavor, texture, duration of effects, and even their experiences with customer service.
Testing
As the FDA doesn’t currently regulate cannabinoid supplements, it can be difficult to know you’re getting a clean and safe product. Therefore, for a CBG or CBD product to make it onto our list, it has to have undergone third-party lab testing, with the results made available as a certificate of analysis (CoA), which shows:
- The potency of CBD and/or CBG is as advertised
- The profile of other cannabinoids and terpenes
- Verification that the supplement is free of impurities, toxins, and microbes
What to Look For When Buying CBG and CBD Products
With thousands of CBD and CBG supplements on the market, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. We’ve put together some of the important factors to keep in mind when buying CBD and CBG products.
Form
Cannabinoid supplements are available in a huge variety of forms, which allows you to tailor your product to your specific needs. Some of the most common forms include:
- Oils and tinctures: These liquids are typically made up of a carrier oil infused with cannabinoids. They are administered under the tongue with a dropper, where the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream via a network of tiny capillaries for fast action. Oils and tinctures are a good option for those who find it difficult to take pills or capsules and don’t mind the natural, earthy taste of cannabinoids.
- Gummies: These edibles are a portable, discreet, and affordable way to take cannabinoids. There is no guesswork involved, as each gummy contains an exact dose. Furthermore, gummies usually feature sweet and fruity flavors, ideal if you don’t enjoy the natural cannabinoid taste.
- Capsules and pills: A convenient way to take an exact dose of cannabinoids on the go, whenever you need a boost. They tend to take a little longer to take effect than oils and tinctures as they have to go through the digestive system before the cannabinoids enter the bloodstream.
- Topicals: Creams and lotions containing cannabinoids are a great way to help treat joint and muscle pain, and skin conditions such as psoriasis and acne. They provide fast and targeted relief right where you need it.
- Vapes: Vape liquids are becoming an increasingly popular way to take cannabinoids as it is the fastest way to experience the effects. Vaporized CBD or CBG is inhaled and absorbed directly from the lungs into the bloodstream. Vape liquids come in a variety of flavors.
Potency
If you’re new to cannabinoids, it’s recommended that you look at a lower-potency of gummy, oil, or capsule. This will allow you to determine how well you tolerate CBG and/or CBD and help you to avoid any side effects. A good starting dose is between 2.5 and 5mg of cannabinoids, and over time, you can gradually build up your dose if needed.
Flavor
The natural flavor of cannabinoids is typically earthy and a little bitter. While it’s something you will get used to, you have options if it’s not to your taste. CBD and CBG gummies, oils and tinctures, and even vape liquids are available in a wide variety of sweet and fruit flavors, you are sure to be able to find something that suits your palette.
When choosing a flavored CBD or CBD supplement, we recommend steering clear of products with artificial flavors or colors.
Price
It’s worth remembering that quality costs. If the price of a CBG or CBD supplement seems too good to be true, it probably is i.e., low-quality cannabinoids, artificial ingredients, bulking agents, etc.
It’s not always easy to determine if you’re getting good value for money from a cannabinoid supplement. If a price seems high to you, check the ingredient list. A simple formulation made from 100% natural and organic ingredients is a good indicator of quality.
Plus, if you want to incorporate a CBD or CBG supplement into your daily routine, many brands offer subscriptions, which offer large savings on regular monthly shipments.
Potential Side Effects of CBG and CBD
Currently, very little is known about the side effects of CBG, but as CBG interacts with the body in much the same way as CBD, we can hypothesize that the side effect of the two compounds will be similar, which may include mild forms of:
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Appetite changes
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Generally speaking, CBD and CBG are typically well tolerated, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consume as advertised. Furthermore, it’s important you speak to your doctor before taking a CBD or CBG supplement if you have any pre-existing medical conditions as cannabinoids can interact with certain medications, including:
- Mood disorder medications
- Anti-epilepsy drugs
- Blood pressure medications and blood thinners
- Anti-cancer medications
- Immunosuppressants
- Corticosteroids
- Antihistamines
- Medications to treat gastrointestinal disorders
CBD may affect the way your body metabolizes these medications, which may impact their functionality. Plus, as cannabinoids can affect the regulation of certain reproductive hormones, it’s best to avoid CBD and CBG supplements if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
CBG vs CBD FAQs:
Are CBG and CBD legal?
The 2018 Farm Bell removed hemp from the legal definition of cannabis. This means that hemp-derived CBD and CBG products are legal at the federal level as long as they contain less than 0.3% by weight of THC.
However, while CBG and CBD are federally legal, they may not be legal in every state. Therefore, you should check individual state laws before buying and traveling.
Will CBG or CBD make me high?
For most people,CBD nor CBG will make you high. Neither of these cannabinoids is overtly psychoactive and, therefore will produce no intoxicating effects for the majority of consumers. However, every person reacts differently to these compounds so a light dose is always recommended to start.
Even full-spectrum CBD and CBG products will only contain a maximum of 0.3% of THC, which is not enough to produce a high, but just enough to trigger the “entourage effect” boosting the therapeutic benefits of the cannabinoids.
CBG vs CBD Final Thought
CBD and CBG are cannabinoids, which are compounds extracted from the hemp plant. They are associated with a number of possible wellness benefits, such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, improved mood, boosted sleep quality, and helping heal skin conditions.
The advantage of being natural and plant-derived means that cannabinoids — like CBD and CBG — typically don’t have the unpleasant side effects of prescription medications. The side effects of CBD and CBG are mild lethargy, appetite changes, and dry mouth. Plus, these side effects are typically temporary and can be avoided by starting with a low dose.
Cannabinoid supplements come in a wide variety, including gummies, oils and tinctures, vape juices, capsules, and more. Whatever form you choose, it’s advised you speak to your doctor before starting CBD supplements as they can interact with certain medications.
Hearst Newspapers participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission when you purchase products featured here. Please consult your doctor before starting any new supplement to see it is right for you.