If you’ve recently discovered cannabigerol (CBG) and want to give it a try, the first step is determining your ideal dosage.
But this isn’t exactly straightforward – the amount of CBG you should take depends on why you’re using it, your weight, the severity of your symptoms, and other factors.
So to help, we’ve put together a CBG dosage chart, calculator, and guide based on our personal experiences and those of thousands of customers.
In this guide, we discuss factors that influence your ideal dose, the best dosage strengths for specific uses, and dosage tips for different types of CBG products.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- For pain and inflammation, start by taking 3mg of CBG per 10 lbs. of body weight
- For anxiety and depression, start by taking 3mg of CBG per 10 lbs. of body weight
- For sleep, start by taking 1mg of CBG per 10 lbs. of body weight
- A variety of factors will influence your CBG dosage, including why you’re taking it, your body weight, the severity of symptoms, and whether you’ve built up a tolerance to cannabinoids
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of more than 100+ naturally occurring cannabinoids in the cannabis sativa plant (hemp is a federally-legal variant of cannabis sativa containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight).
Research suggests CBG has a variety of potential therapeutic benefits; it’s been studied for pain, inflammation, anxiety, and many other use cases.
Many people prefer CBG for therapeutic uses because it’s more uplifting than CBD, but doesn’t create a high like THC does.
The Benefits of CBG
Research suggests CBG has therapeutic benefits for the following use cases:
- Inflammation & pain: A 2021 research review found that a combination of CBD and CBG may have inflammation-reducing effects [1].
- Weight loss: A 2021 study found that CBG may reduce appetite and induce weight loss by blocking the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system [2].
- Skin health: A 2022 study looked at the topical effects of CBG on skin irritation in 20 people. The researchers found that CBG caused improvements in the amount of transepidermal water loss and appearance of redness, both of which occurred less with CBG compared to a placebo [3].
- Anxiety: Recent research suggests CBG may promote mental relaxation and potentially offer support for those with anxiety. A 2024 study found that people who took a 20mg dose of CBG showed fewer signs of anxiety than people who took a placebo [4].
- Stomach & GI health: A 2016 study found that the activation of both CB1 and CB2 receptors (which CBG does) in the endocannabinoid system has beneficial effects on inflammation and pain in the stomach and intestines [5].
- Energy & focus: In a 2021 survey, 70.8% of respondents with ADHD saw an improvement in their condition after using products containing a mix of CBG and CBD [6].
- Neurological health: CBG has been studied for use with Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease, two conditions that erode the function of the nervous system and brain. Research suggests CBG may slow the progression of these diseases [7,8].
- Appetite: A 2016 study concluded that CBG may have therapeutic potential for conditions involving malnutrition due to its appetite-stimulating properties [9].
- Eye health: A study found that CBG has vasodilating properties, meaning it may promote ocular blood flow, which keeps the eyes healthy and has a role in minimizing damage to the optic nerve [10].
- Nausea: A 2011 study done on rats found that CBG, by itself, suppressed acute nausea. However, the research also found that CBG may nullify the beneficial effects of CBD on nausea, which means these cannabinoids are most beneficial for nausea if used separately [11].
- Cancer: A 2021 study found that CBG may exhibit anti-tumor properties in certain types of cancer. However, it also acknowledged that more scientific exploration of this use case is needed [12].
How Much CBG Should You Take? Factors to Consider
When determining your CBG dosage, there are four main factors you’ll want to account for:
- Why you’re using it: Different uses require different starting dosage strengths (see next section) to see good results.
- Weight: Based on your weight, you’ll need a specific amount of CBG to ensure it works effectively throughout your body.
- Symptom severity: Though each condition has a specific starting dosage strength, you may find you need more or less CBG depending on how severe your symptoms are.
- Tolerance: If you already use other cannabinoids, especially psychoactive cannabinoids, you may need to take extra CBG for it to have the desired effect. Alternatively, you can take a tolerance break from all cannabinoids for 3-4 weeks, and then begin using CBG.
To calculate your exact daily dosage, we recommend using a formula that accounts for the first two factors: use and body weight.
Then, once you’ve begun taking CBG, you’ll want to consider the other two factors as you fine-tune your dose over time to achieve your desired result.
With this in mind, you can go to the next section to find your dosing formula, and then the section after for our chart to determine your final dosage.
CBG Dosage Strength By Use
Depending on your condition or use, here’s the CBG dosage strength you’ll need:
CBG dosage for pain & inflammation
Pain and inflammation require a medium-strength dosage of CBG, which can be calculated using this formula:
(0.3) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for anxiety & depression
You’ll need a medium-strength dosage of CBG for anxiety and depression:
(0.3) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for ADHD
For ADHD, start with a low-strength dosage of CBG:
(0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for energy & general wellness
For energy and general daily wellness, start with a low-strength dosage of CBG:
(0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for sleep
For sleep support and nighttime use, start with a low-strength dosage of CBG:
(0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)
Start with a medium-strength dosage of CBG for IBS:
(0.3) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
CBG for neuroprotective benefits
For general neuroprotective benefits, use a medium-strength dosage of CBG:
(0.3) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for nausea
For nausea, start with a low-strength dosage of CBG:
(0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your CBG dosage in mg.
CBG dosage for cancer
If you’re using CBG for cancer, we recommend you consult with a doctor beforehand about how much you should be using, if at all.
CBG and other cannabinoids aren’t always the right fit for some conditions, and these types of specialized use cases benefit from expert guidance.
CBG Dosage Calculator
With your strength in mind, you can calculate your dosage using the associated formula. Or, you can just use our calculator:
- In the top field, enter your body weight in pounds (lbs.)
- In the bottom field, select your CBG dosage strength based on your condition or use
- Click the calculate button to determine your daily CBG dosage
CBG Dosage Chart
Calculating your dose precisely using our calculator or one of the formulas above is necessary for therapeutic use.
However, you can also use our chart below to estimate your dosage — it’s not an exact science, and being a few mg above or below your recommended CBG dosage won’t cause any problems:
How to Take CBG: Recommendations By Product
Now that you’ve determined your ideal CBG dosage, the next step is to choose a delivery method. Here’s a bit about each major CBG product option.
For reference:
- Average bioavailability: The percentage of the CBG you take that your body can use (in other words, how “efficient” a delivery method is. All of our dosage formulas are already adjusted for approximately 20% bioavailability).
- Onset time: How quickly you’ll feel the effects after using a product.
CBG edibles
Average bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts working in: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Dosage information: CBG edibles come in a variety of forms, the most common being CBG gummies. Edibles offer a consistent, fixed-dose way to take CBG, as each piece will contain the same amount. Most gummies contain 10-30mg of CBG per piece, so in many cases, your starting dose will require you to take anywhere from half a gummy to 2 gummies.
CBG capsules
Average bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts working in: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Dosage information: CBG capsules, like edibles, offer a consistent, fixed-dose delivery method. The one downside to capsules is that they aren’t convenient if you need a very small dose. Most capsules contain a midsize dosage of CBG (think 20-30mg), and you can’t easily split one in half if you need a smaller amount.
CBG oil
Average bioavailability: 20-30%
Starts working in: 10 to 15 minutes
Dosage information: CBG oil is taken sublingually (under the tongue), not swallowed. As a result, it works faster and is slightly more bioavailable than other products. CBG oil also allow you to measure very precise doses.
But the dosing can be a bit confusing: how much CBG is in each dropper?
Here’s what you need to know:
Generally, oils come with 1-milliliter droppers. Based on the strength of your product (our full-spectrum CBG and CBD oil comes in 500mg, 1000mg, 1500mg, or 3000mg per bottle), here’s how much CBG will be in each dropper of oil:
100mg bottle = 3.3mg CBG per 1 ml.
250mg bottle = 8.3mg CBG per 1 ml.
500mg bottle = 16.7mg CBG per 1 ml.
1000mg bottle = 33.3mg CBG per 1 ml.
1500mg bottle = 50mg CBG per 1 ml.
3000mg bottle = 100m CBG per 1 ml.
5000mg bottle = 166.6mg CBG per 1 ml.
What if my product contains both CBG and CBD?
If you’re using a product that contains both CBG and CBD, simply ensure that the total amount of cannabinoids you’re taking is equal to your predetermined CBG dosage.
So if you’re taking a 1:1 CBG and CBD gummy that contains 25mg of each cannabinoid per piece, if you’ve decided your perfect CBG dosage is 50mg, simply take 1 gummy.
How To Shop for CBG: Buying Tips
Because the hemp industry isn’t heavily regulated, you have to do your due diligence while buying CBG online to ensure you’re getting high-quality products. Here are some tips:
Check lab reports
Make sure the product you’re planning on buying has been 3rd-party lab tested and the report is available on the vendor’s website.
Check the lab report to verify the potency of the product and ensure that it passes tests for heavy metals, molds, and other contaminants.
If you can’t find a 3rd-party lab report for a product, don’t buy it. (To view our lab reports, click here.)
Read reviews
The best way to determine whether a product is effective is to read reviews from real people that have bought and used it.
Needless to say, if a product has received poor reviews, it probably isn’t worth buying.
Opt for full-spectrum products
Generally, products containing other cannabinoids in addition to CBG are more beneficial because the cannabinoids will work together to create stronger effects (this is known as the entourage effect). CBD and CBG in a 1:1 ratio, are especially beneficial when used together.
There are many different types of CBG extract, and it’s important to know what they are so you know what you’re buying.
- Full-spectrum CBG contains other cannabinoids, too, including a bit of THC, as well as terpenes.
- Broad-spectrum CBG is the same as full-spectrum but without THC.
- CBG isolate products only contain CBG.
Conclusion: How Much CBG Should You Take?
Finding the right CBG dosage takes some trial and error. Our formulas, calculator, and chart provide a starting point, but you’ll need to experiment a bit to find the amount that’s right for you.
If you’re on any prescription medications, be sure to talk to your doctor before using CBG. Cannabinoids like CBG may interact with some prescriptions, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and ask a medical professional.
Our CBG dosing advice in one sentence? Start with your recommended dosage, and then gradually increase it until you get the feeling you want.
CBG Dosage: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we frequently get asked about CBG dosage.
How many mg of CBG should you take?
Generally speaking, you should start by taking 10-25mg of CBG daily. You can calculate your exact weight-based dose using this formula (0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
How many mg of CBG is safe?
A safe starting point for CBG oil and other products is 5mg, taken 1-3 times daily. For a more precise dosage suited for your body type, you can use this formula: (0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage mg. Ensure you speak to your doctor before taking CBG if you’re using any prescription medications.
What happens when you take too much CBG?
Though CBG is generally considered safe to use, taking too much may cause adverse side effects, including dry mouth, reduced appetite, drowsiness, fatigue, and diarrhea. As with any cannabinoid, it’s important that you start with a low dose and work your way up gradually.
How much CBG should a beginner start with?
If you’re new to CBG, we recommend you start by taking 5mg of CBG 1-3 times per day. This will give you a feel for how CBG works in your body without taking so much that you feel overwhelmed. You can calculate your exact weight-based dose using this formula (0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily CBG dosage in mg.
Does CBG make you feel high?
Using CBG will not cause you to feel high. However, it will create a smooth, energizing lift comparable to caffeine that some may compare to a “high.” CBG won’t cause the deep, “stoned” high that THC does, though, nor will it cause mental impairment or disorientation of any kind.
How long does it take for CBG to work?
CBG oil taken sublingually (under the tongue) will begin working in just 10-15 minutes. However, CBG edibles or capsules take longer to start working (more like 45 minutes to 1 hour) as they have to pass through your digestive system before reaching your bloodstream.
How long does CBG last?
The effects of CBG will last 4-8 hours after they kick in. Sublingual products, such as CBG oil, last 4-6 hours, while CBG edibles and gummies will last 6-8 hours.
What are the side effects of CBG?
Potential CBG side effects include dry mouth, sleepiness, increased appetite, dry eyes, digestive upset, dizziness, and headache.
Will CBG show up on a drug test?
No, CBG by itself will not show up on a drug test. However, full-spectrum CBG products and CBG flower, both of which contain THC, will.
Sources
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[3] Perez, Eduardo et al. “In Vitro and Clinical Evaluation of Cannabigerol (CBG) Produced via Yeast Biosynthesis: A Cannabinoid with a Broad Range of Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Health-Boosting Properties.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 27,2 491. 13 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3390/molecules27020491
[4] Cuttler, C., Stueber, A., Cooper, Z. D., & Russo, E. (2024). Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial. Scientific reports, 14(1), 16163. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0
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[8] Valdeolivas, Sara et al. “Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in Huntington’s disease: studies in R6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice.” Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics vol. 12,1 (2015): 185-99. doi:10.1007/s13311-014-0304-z
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