Have you heard of CBG Flowers yet? They’re the newest trend of the year and are taking the cannabis industry by storm.
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD-rich hemp flower has gone mainstream. Available in nearly all 50 states, it’s popularity has revealed a huge demand for non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Now everyone is talking about CBG flowers…
But fast on the coattails of CBD is a lesser-known but equally interesting cannabinoid known as CBG. As the precursor to all other cannabinoids, CBGa has been rightfully dubbed the “Mother of Cannabinoids”. Its ability to synthesize all known cannabinoids makes it of interest to researchers and consumers alike.
Additionally, CBG strains have a naturally lower THC content than CBD-rich varieties. This could make CBG genetics very valuable over the coming seasons as the new USDA hemp rules, which limit total THC to 0.3% tighten up testing procedures, come into play
CBG Flowers and the New USDA Hemp Rules
As CBG is synthesized into other cannabinoids including THC, strains high in CBG are generally very low in other cannabinoids. That means high-CBG strains are consistent in producing less than 0.3% total THC, which is now the limit under the recently-released USDA rules for growing hemp.
Many CBD-rich varieties of hemp – especially ones with over 10-15% CBD – produce well over 0.3% THC. While this has been loosely regulated up until now, starting next year, all hemp plants must test below the reinforced limit of 0.3% total THC. This will mean many of the genetics currently used are no longer compliant with law. As a matter of fact, most of the CBD strains on the market today are not compliant based on these standards.
As a result, CBG-rich varieties may be a safer bet for many farmers to grow in coming seasons. As breeders will have more room for experimentation developing CBG strains, it’s looking likely that a large percentage of compliant genetics for future growing seasons will be CBG-dominant.
Benefits of CBG
CBG has many potential medicinal benefits. Research has found it to be neuroprotectant, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory. It’s also believed to help treat gastrointestinal disorders, glaucoma, and might also have a positive effect on cancer – although more research is needed to fully verify these statements.
A 2008 study found CBG to be beneficial in the treatment of MRSA due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its neuroprotective properties may help people with Huntington’s disease, while further research has looked into its potential to treat bladder dysfunction. A more recent study has found CBG to be effective for increasing appetite.
CBG is also being used as a safe and effective antidepressant and its effects mimic those of SSRI medications. It’s also believed that CBG can boost production of the endocannabinoid Anandamide, which naturally increases dopamine levels as well as regulates various functions such as sleep, mood, and appetite.
Effects of Smoking CBG Flower
When consumed, CBG produces body relaxation, a boost in energy, and improved focus. Some have compared the effects to that of green tea. Some people also report an increased appetite, similar to that of THC.
Many CBG strains are quite dry compared to CBD/THC strains. This is because they generally have a lower moisture content, which may be due to how CBG varieties grow. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t of high quality, as many CBG strains are well-coated in trichomes and offer potent aromas combined with smooth smoke.
Final Thoughts
Between the medical benefits and compliance ease, it’s no surprise these flowers are becoming increasingly popular. So if you’re looking for flowers that are effective, consistently enjoyed among consumers, and above all else – legal; then consider taking at look at CBG flowers.
Written By: Jack Woodhouse
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