CBG vs CBN: What’s the Deal?

By Harry B. Nuggs

CBG vs CBN: What’s the Deal?


Having its tremendous benefits, CBD or cannabidiol already made its name in the industry for reducing stress, and pain, and giving better sleep for consumers. The cannabis plant contains 100 different cannabinoids including THC and CBD. We always talk about CBD and know you're already familiar with it. But, how about CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol)? Both offer potential health benefits. These two are not as popular as THC and CBD but these substances are beginning to attract attention because of the potential daily and long-term health advantages they may have.


What distinguishes CBG and CBN, then? Which one is the best for you? Let’s find out.

What is CBG?

The next on the list for popularity is cannabigerol or CBG. This strain is also known as the stem cell or mother of cannabinoids because of its versatility to convert from CBG to BD, THC, or CBC. Now, if you want CBGa to be converted into CBG, it will be stabilized and will not cause any changes in cannabinoids. Isn't that great? 


CBG is a minor substance from cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. It is believed to reduce inflammation, pain relief, and ease symptoms of chronic ailments. What's more is that CBGF is non-intoxicating and plenty of people say that the feeling or effects are similar to CBD. Basically, all cannabinoids started as CBG, proving its motherhood. 


Below are some of the positive effects of CBG: 

  • pain reduction

  • easing depression and anxiety

  • reduction of glaucoma-related hypertension

  • a neuroprotective quality

  • antibacterial qualities that might combat types of bacteria resistant to antibiotics

  • decrease in inflammation

  • Increase in appetite


What is CBN?

Next is CBN, if CBG is known as a stem or mother weed, CBN is known as an old weed. It is specifically the byproduct of Delta-9 THC breakdown and is created when THC oxidizes. Now, how does it happen? When the D9 THC starts to break down because of the light or temperature changes, it will instantly turn into CBN. This strain is responsible for making you feel drowsy. 


Moreover, it is the degradation of THC which is normal because the plants actually mature. Actually, cannabis only has traces of CBN most of the time in young or freshly dried cannabis. While both CBG and CBD are present in the plant separately, CBN is actually the product resulting from the activation process. If CBG has energizing, mood-enhancing, and stimulating effects, CBN offers a natural sleeping aid effect.


Below are some of the positive effects of CBG: 

  • Antibacterial effects

  • Neuroprotective benefits

  • Can also boost your appetite

  • Significantly improves your sleep

CBN vs CBG

Now you already know that THC and CBD are not the only substance available on your product, but CBG, CBN, and hundreds of strains as well. CBG and CBN are both present in cannabis but only in small amounts. However, they can be found in full-spectrum CBD products which can be in the form of oils, tinctures, and topicals. Having CBD present in the product gives another level of quality, but what if it has CBG and CBN? The quality standard will definitely increase as well. 


When it comes to the availability of CBG and CBN products, it depends. Because of its origin, and less popularity, it will be hard to find products that will contain either. Given its rareness, products with these strains will be more expensive compared to other cannabinoids that are more commonly found in higher concentrations. 


The only similarity they have? They are both cannabinoids. Talking about the effects and potency, both have unique chemical compounds. CBN and CBG are different from THC just to clarify because it does not have the same intensity and intoxicating effects. Most of the time you'll have the euphoric feeling after having CBD or THC but generally expect that you won’t feel “high” after consuming CBN or CBG.

Which is Better?

In a nutshell, CBN and CBG are only minor parts of cannabinoids that are slowly gaining popularity. Knowing what's better is the main purpose of this blog. However, it's difficult to identify what suits the best for our consumers because of preferences in effects and what might work better for you. Basically, if you want to boost your energy, stable health, and reduce inflammation, grab some products with CBG. On the other hand, if you value your sleep and pain management, get some CBN-infused products. 


Make the value of conducting research and do some reading before purchasing products. Smokeland offers different types of cannabis-infused products and is one of the trusted companies in the industry. Visit their website to find out more.