Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is a non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis and hemp plants. Existing in its acidic form, CBGA is concentrated in the trichomes of young, developing plants, where it serves as a foundational element in their chemical makeup.
CBGA as the Cannabinoid Precursor
CBGA is often called the “mother of all cannabinoids” due to its role as the initial compound from which other cannabinoids are synthesized. Within the plant, specific enzymes convert CBGA into acidic forms like tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). The specific enzymes present in a cannabis strain determine which acidic cannabinoids are produced in higher quantities.
For these acidic forms to become active compounds like THC, CBD, and CBC, a process called decarboxylation is necessary. This occurs through exposure to heat, such as when cannabis is smoked, vaped, or cooked. Decarboxylation removes a carboxyl group from the molecule, transforming the acidic precursor into its neutral, active form.
Potential Therapeutic Effects of CBGA
Scientific investigations into CBGA have explored its effects on various biological systems, primarily in preclinical laboratory or animal studies. One area of focus for CBGA is its potential influence on metabolic disorders, particularly its effects on lipid metabolism. Studies suggest that CBGA may contribute to supporting cholesterol and cardiovascular health.
CBGA has also shown promise in studies investigating its anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates that this compound could help in alleviating soreness and supporting recovery processes within the body. While these findings are preliminary, they suggest a role for CBGA in modulating inflammatory responses. Furthermore, preliminary research has explored CBGA’s effects on colon cancer cells. Some studies have indicated that CBGA may exhibit antiproliferative effects against these cells. These studies provide valuable insights into its potential, but further human trials are necessary to confirm these effects and determine appropriate applications.
Differentiating CBGA and CBG
Understanding the distinction between CBGA and CBG is important, as they represent different stages of the same cannabinoid. CBGA, or cannabigerolic acid, is the raw, acidic precursor found in the living cannabis plant. It contains an extra carboxylic acid group, denoted by the “A” in its name.
Cannabigerol (CBG), on the other hand, is the “activated” non-acidic cannabinoid. CBG forms when CBGA is exposed to heat, a process known as decarboxylation. This chemical reaction removes the carboxylic acid group from the CBGA molecule, changing its structure and allowing it to interact differently within the body.
Because of this chemical difference, CBGA and CBG interact with the body’s systems in distinct ways. CBGA primarily functions as a building block within the plant’s cannabinoid synthesis pathway. CBG, after decarboxylation, is bioactive and can exert more direct effects on the body’s endocannabinoid system. While CBGA is currently being investigated for potential benefits related to cardiovascular health, CBG is often explored for its diverse applications, including neuroprotection, antibacterial properties, and pain relief. This highlights that despite their close relationship, their unique chemical structures lead to different biological activities.
Sources and Forms of CBGA
CBGA is present in raw cannabis and hemp plants, but its presence in consumer products depends on how the plant material is processed. Since heat causes CBGA to convert into CBG or other cannabinoids through decarboxylation, products that involve smoking or vaping typically contain very little, if any, CBGA.
Consumers looking for CBGA will typically find it in specialized products designed to preserve its raw, acidic form. These often include tinctures, oils, and capsules made from raw cannabis or hemp extracts. These products are processed without significant heat to maintain the integrity of the CBGA molecule. Another theoretical way to consume CBGA is through juicing raw cannabis or hemp plant material. This method bypasses the heating process entirely, allowing for the direct intake of the acidic cannabinoid.