CBG (cannabigerol) has increasingly been the attention of scientific research in the past couple of years, and, as a result, we’re learning more about what this cannabinoid has offer from a therapeutic standpoint.
One potential use case that’s particularly promising is anxiety.
Research indicates that CBG promotes mental relaxation without creating any significant adverse side effects. CBG creates energizing, clarifying effects without being psychoactive, which means it has massive therapeutic potential for supporting daytime mental balance.
In this article, we’re going to look at the research on CBG for anxiety, talk about how it works, and discuss how CBG compares to CBD and CBN for anxiety.
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What is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of the 100-plus naturally-occurring cannabinoids in the cannabis sativa plant (hemp is cannabis containing less than 0.3% THC).
While CBG hasn’t been researched as much as CBD or THC, studies so far indicate that it may have therapeutic potential for pain, inflammation, anxiety, and ADHD, and it’s also been researched for glaucoma, Huntington’s disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
CBG is non-psychoactive and will not get you high, but it does create an energizing, uplifting mental sensation.
Does CBG Help With Anxiety?
While CBG isn’t a proven treatment for anxiety, recent research suggests it may have therapeutic potential for promoting mental relaxation and balance.
CBG may also indirectly promote mental balance by addressing physical discomfort, which often negatively impacts sleep, which then negatively influences anxiety levels.
Anecdotal evidence suggests CBG has uplifting, yet not psychoactive effects that are comparable to those of caffeine. This means CBG may promote daytime cognitive performance while taking the edge off.
Benefits of CBG for Anxiety, According to Research
Below, we take a look at the research on CBG for anxiety, as well as studies on CBG for pain, energy, and focus, all of which are related to anxiety.
Research on CBG for anxiety
Two studies have been done on CBG for anxiety, starting with a 2022 survey that sought to discover the therapeutic potential of this cannabinoid.
The researchers surveyed 127 participants, all of whom had used CBG-predominant cannabis products in the last 6 months.
Of everyone surveyed, 51.2% were using CBG for anxiety-related reasons, and 33.1% were using it for depression.
The effectiveness of CBG was “highly rated” by respondents, and many reported that their conditions were “very much improved” as a result of CBG.
The survey also asked participants whether or not they preferred CBG over conventional treatments. 78.3% of respondents preferred CBG over conventional medicine for anxiety, and 80% preferred it for depression [1].
Two years later, in 2024, the same researchers did a field trial to further investigate CBG’s potential for anxiety.
The trial involved 34 healthy adults and looked at the anxiety levels of the participants (measured via several surveys and tests) before and after taking a 20mg dose of CBG, delivered via an oil tincture.
They compared the effectiveness of CBG oil to a placebo dummy oil.
The researchers observed positive results, stating that “there was a significant main effect of CBG on overall reductions in anxiety as well as reductions in stress,” relative to the placebo [2].
This study indicates CBG has therapeutic potential for anxiety. While CBG isn’t yet a proven treatment for anxiety, early research is promising, and it’s clear that future studies are warranted.
Research on CBG for pain
Physical discomfort and pain are closely related to anxiety. Not only can pain cause anxiety as a result of worrying about your physical condition, but it can also worsen sleep, which can increase any anxiety that’s already present.
Research indicates CBG has therapeutic potential for pain and inflammation, which suggests it may support mental relaxation in more than one way.
A 2013 research review found that CBG may help with the inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) [3].
A 2021 research review found that CBG may have beneficial effects on arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and other inflammation-based conditions for which NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and opioids are commonly prescribed [4].
In the survey referenced above that looked at 127 people using CBG-predominant cannabis and cannabis products, 73.9% of respondents reported that CBG was superior to prescription medications for pain [5].
Anecdotally, many people prefer CBG for pain over other cannabinoids.
While it isn’t yet a proven treatment for pain and shouldn’t be used as a replacement for prescription drugs, research indicates that CBG can promote physical comfort.
By helping you maintain your physical health, CBG may also help you maintain your mental health.
Research on CBG for energy and focus
In addition to addressing mental and physical imbalances directly, CBG may generally promote a good mood by positively impacting energy, focus, and mental clarity.
Because of this, many people use CBG for ADHD.
In a research survey from 2021, 70.8% of respondents with ADHD saw an improvement in their condition after using products containing a mix of CBG and CBD [6].
CBG’s effects are very different from most other cannabinoids. Rather than having a sedative effect (like CBN) or a deeply relaxing head high effect (like THC), CBG tends to be uplifting and energizing.
Many people describe CBG’s effects as being similar to coffee: energizing, but in a smooth way that helps them focus without being too overwhelming.
By promoting focus and helping you tackle each day head-on, CBG may bring overall mental relaxation.
How CBG Works for Anxiety
CBG works by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a receptor system in your body that regulates your vital functions, including your sleep-wake cycle, emotional processing, mood, learning, memory, and more.
The main function of the ECS is to keep your mind and body in a state of mental and physical homeostasis, or balance.
There are two main types of receptors in the ECS: CB1 and CB2.
CBG interacts with the CB2 receptors in your ECS, which research says are “therapeutic targets for the treatment of anxiety and depression” [7,8].
This interaction is thought to be the source of CBG’s potential benefits for anxiety, as well as other benefits it has for mental health.
CBG vs. CBD vs. CBN for Anxiety: How Do They Compare?
While there is new research showing CBG’s therapeutic promise for anxiety, how does it stack up to cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN), two other naturally-occurring cannabinoids in the cannabis sativa plant?
CBG vs. CBD for Anxiety
Compared to CBG, CBD’s effects are less noticeable. While CBG creates energy and clarity, CBD produces few obvious effects, and instead works by taking the edge off of negative sensations.
But while CBD works differently, research suggests it has vast therapeutic potential for anxiety. CBD may promote physical comfort and restful sleep, both of which can contribute to overall better mental well-being.
When it comes to choosing between CBG and CBD for anxiety, we recommend you decide based on the nature of your anxiety:
- If your anxiety is fatiguing and makes you feel generally deflated, an energizing cannabinoid such as CBG might be the better option.
- If your anxiety creates overthinking, extreme worrying, and hyperactivity, a more calming cannabinoid like CBD may be the best choice.
You can also use CBG and CBD together for anxiety. Combining the two cannabinids makes them more effective; each cannabinoid balances out the other’s effects, while combining to render greater therapeutic benefits for the mind and body.
CBG vs. CBN for Anxiety
Whereas CBG is energizing and uplifting, CBN is sedative and relaxing. CBN is also slightly psychoactive – it creates a drowsy high that’s roughly ¼ as potent as that of delta 9 THC.
While CBN’s main use is sleep, anecdotal evidence suggests it may also be useful for anxiety due to its mentally relaxing effects.
If you’re dealing with anxiety that’s impeding your ability to sleep or that primarily occurs at night, CBN may be a good option.
On the other hand, if you’re trying to promote mental relaxation during the day, CBG is the better option since it’s not inebriating.
Side Effects of CBG
While CBG may promote mental relaxation and is generally well-tolerated, it has a few potential adverse effects.
Side effects of CBG may include:
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness
- Increased appetite
- Dry eyes
- Digestive upset (nausea, diarrhea)
- Dizziness
- Headache
It’s worth noting that many people won’t feel these side effects at all, and your chance of feeling them is greatly reduced with proper dosing.
CBG Dosage for Anxiety
Starting out, we recommend a low-strength dosage of CBG for anxiety.
You can use this formula to calculate your initial dose:
(0.1) x (your body weight in lbs.) = your daily dose of CBG for anxiety in mg.
For example, if you’re 150 lbs, you’d start by taking 15mg of CBG each day. If you’re using a product with both CBG and CBD, this number should be your total cannabinoid consumption.
Once you get used to this dose, add or subtract 2-3mg each day until you achieve the effects you’re looking for.
How to Take CBG for Anxiety: Product Types
There are many different ways you can take CBG. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of CBG products so you can choose the right one for your situation.
For reference, bioavailability is the percentage of CBG you take that your body can use – in other words, how “efficient” a certain delivery method is.
Gummies
Average Bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts Working In: 45 minutes to 1 hour
CBG gummies are one of the most popular CBG products due to their taste, but another major upside they have is that they’re fixed-dose, meaning each piece contains the same amount of cannabinoids.
This makes them great for routine-building, as you can easily take the same amount of CBG every time.
The downside of gummies is that, since they’re digested, they can take 45 minutes to 1 hour to start working.
For more, see our guide to the best CBG gummies.
Oil
Average Bioavailability: 20-30%
Starts Working In: 10 to 15 minutes
CBG oil is taken sublingually, or under the tongue, and it delivers cannabinoids straight to your bloodstream via the blood vessels in your mouth.
Due to their sublingual absorption method, oils work quickly – you’ll begin feeling their effects in just 10-15 minutes.
CBG oil is also a great option if you want to take very small or precise doses, as you can measure the amount you take down to the drop using the metered dropper.
The downside of oils is that you have to measure your dosage each time, as opposed to just popping a gummy or capsule and being done.
For more, see our guide to the best CBG oil.
Capsules
Average Bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts Working In: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Like gummies, CBG capsules can be taken in a fix-dosed manner.
Apart from the onset time (just as with gummies), the downside of capsules is that they can’t reasonably be split in half if you need a smaller dose than the amount contained in each piece.
Most capsules contain 25mg or more of CBG, so they may not be the best option if you want to take very small doses in the beginning.
Flower and Vapes
Average Bioavailability: 50-60%
Starts Working In: 10 to 15 minutes
There are a variety of hemp flower strains that contain high amounts of CBG, and there are also CBG vapes available.
There are two main upsides to inhalable products:
- You can take small amounts of CBG throughout the day, making them ideal for daytime therapeutic use, which is often needed for anxiety.
- They have a high bioavailability and short onset time since they deliver cannabinoids straight to the lungs.
The downside of inhalable CBG delivery is the obvious health risk to your lungs and overall health. It’s all a trade-off.
Conclusion: Should You Use CBG for Anxiety?
To promote mental balance on a daily basis, you might find that CBG (or a CBG:CBD combination) can help you relax and maintain a healthier headspace.
But for severe anxiety or dpression, you should seek medical or psychological assistance. CBG and other cannabinoids are not a substitute for professional treatment; use them as supplements, not replacements.
Overall, early research suggests CBG has great therapeutic promise for anxiety. The recent study done indicates that scientists are still very much interested in the benefits this cannabinoid has to offer, and that the role of hemp in creating better mental health will only continue to grow.
CBG for Anxiety: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions our customers frequently ask us about CBG for anxiety.
Can CBG help with depression?
Research suggests CBG has therapeutic potential for depression, however, it isn’t a proven treatment and more studies are needed to examine the efficacy of CBG for depression.
Can CBG cause anxiety?
While CBG promotes energy, anecdotal evidence suggests it won’t create the mental hyperactivity associated with anxiety. However, THC, another cannabnioid in the hemp plant that’s commonly present in CBG flower, may cause anxiety and paranoia in some people.
Is CBG or CBN better for anxiety?
CBG is better for promoting mental relaxation during the day, due to its uplifting and mentally clarifying benefits. On the other hand, CBN, with its sedative effects, is better for managing mood at night.
Why does CBG make me feel good?
CBG promotes mental and physical relaxation by supporting overall balance via your endocannabinoid system. By balancing your vital functions, CBG promotes normal states of health.
Is CBG more relaxing than CBD?
No. CBG is more uplifting than CBD, but CBD tends to create a mellower effect.
Who should not take CBG?
People who are currently using certain types of prescriptios shouldn’t use CBG due to the contraindications many cannabinoids have with these medicines.
Sources
[1] 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
[2] Russo, E. B., Cuttler, C., Cooper, Z. D., Stueber, A., Whiteley, V. L., & Sexton, M. (2022). Survey of Patients Employing Cannabigerol-Predominant Cannabis Preparations: Perceived Medical Effects, Adverse Events, and Withdrawal Symptoms. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 7(5), 706–716. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0058
[3] Borrelli, Francesca et al. “Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease.” Biochemical pharmacology vol. 85,9 (2013): 1306-16. doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017
[4] Kogan, Natalya M et al. “Novel CBG Derivatives Can Reduce Inflammation, Pain and Obesity.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,18 5601. 15 Sep. 2021, doi:10.3390/molecules26185601
[5] Russo, Ethan B et al. “Survey of Patients Employing Cannabigerol-Predominant Cannabis Preparations: Perceived Medical Effects, Adverse Events, and Withdrawal Symptoms.” Cannabis and cannabinoid research vol. 7,5 (2022): 706-716. doi:10.1089/can.2021.0058
[6] Peters, Erica N et al. “A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeated-dose pilot study of the safety, tolerability, and preliminary effects of a cannabidiol (CBD)- and cannabigerol (CBG)-based beverage powder to support recovery from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition vol. 20,1 (2023): 2280113. doi:10.1080/15502783.2023.2280113
[7] Navarro, G., Varani, K., Reyes-Resina, I., Sánchez de Medina, V., Rivas-Santisteban, R., Sánchez-Carnerero Callado, C., Vincenzi, F., Casano, S., Ferreiro-Vera, C., Canela, E. I., Borea, P. A., Nadal, X., & Franco, R. (2018). Cannabigerol Action at Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptors and at CB1-CB2 Heteroreceptor Complexes. Frontiers in pharmacology, 9, 632. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.00632
[8] Bahi, A., Al Mansouri, S., Al Memari, E., Al Ameri, M., Nurulain, S. M., & Ojha, S. (2014). β-Caryophyllene, a CB2 receptor agonist produces multiple behavioral changes relevant to anxiety and depression in mice. Physiology & behavior, 135, 119–124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.06.003
