What is CBGA & What Does it Do?

CBGA is a minor cannabinoid with the potential to be used in major ways. It is packed with benefits and is crucial to the formation of other cannabinoids that we know and love, such as CBD and THC. In this guide we will discuss what CBGA is, and what it does for us and the hemp and cannabis plant.

CBGA is known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” as it is the foundational acidic cannabinoid crucial to the formation of other cannabinoids, including THCA and CBDA. CBGA is the first cannabinoid in the hemp plant to be produced, leading the way for other cannabinoids to develop. Not only does CBGA create other cannabinoids, but it also helps to regulate plant growth including leaf size and shape. Additionally, CBGA protects the plant from outside stressors like UV radiation and pest. CBGA is crucial not only for the plant’s growth and development, but for its survival as well. CBGA is available in small quantities for extraction in the mature hemp plant, as most of CBGA has converted to other cannabinoids. Because of this some cultivators are using selective breeding to yield plants with higher concentrations of CBGA.

While there is less research on CBGA compared to other cannabinoids, research has shown CBGA may be a therapeutic for an array of conditions and ailments, including the potential to reduce inflammation and pain. CBGA does not bind directly with CB1 or CB2 receptors like most cannabinoids, instead it has important off target effects, such as activating PPARs, that are responsible for CBGA’s therapeutic benefits.

There are numerous ways you can use CBGA to improve your health. Here are some of the most common routes of administration:

Tinctures are one of the most popular ways to ingest cannabinoids. Tinctures are typically made with a carrier oil, such as MCT oil or olive oil, and blended with the cannabinoid extract. They are taken orally under the tongue or can be added to your favorite smoothies or beverages.

Isolates are a great way to get the benefits of CBGA. Isolates are the cannabinoid in its pure form, usually with 99% or higher purity. The microcrystalline powders have no taste and can be easily added into almost anything.

CBGA capsules are typically tinctures put into a capsule form to avoid the earthy flavor some have. Capsules are a quick and easy way to administer cannabinoids and make dosing easy and accurate.

Yes, CBGA that comes from hemp is legal in the United States. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, making it legal to grow and consume hemp products with less than 0.3% of Delta 9 THC.