CBD vs CBG: Your Guide to CBD Oil & Cannabinoids

CBD products have exploded, and quickly, with many people finding relief from a variety of products on the market. But, for many practitioners and patients, it may feel like a secret language. Isolate? Full-spectrum? Broad-spectrum? CBG? It’s enough acronyms to make your head spin before you’ve even taken your first drop.

CBG is the “new kid” on the cannabinoid block, now showing up in oils, gummies, and even coffee blends. CBD and CBG have their unique personalities, potential benefits, and best uses, so understanding the differences can help you pick the perfect product for your needs.

Quick Links:

• What is CBD Oil?
• Glossary: Understanding Cannabinoids
• CBG vs CBD: Key Differences & Benefits
• Full‑Spectrum CBD Oil: CBG’s Role
• Uses & Potential Benefits of CBG vs CBD
• Other CBD Products
• FAQs Including CBG vs CBD

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid in the cannabis plant, especially abundant in hemp varieties bred for low THC content. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and is widely used in herbal dietary supplements, as well as added to a variety of products available on the market. Only one CBD prescription (Epidiolex) is FDA-approved for epilepsy treatment.

Even with its popularity, those wondering whether CBD oil should be part of their wellness regimen need to know that, like many supplements, not all oils are the same. A better question here might be “What is high-quality CBD oil?

CBD Extraction 

Creating high-quality CBD oil involves extracting CBD from the hemp plant using various methods, each with unique advantages in terms of purity, efficiency, and oil profiles. The extraction method is a major quality and branding factor, impacting:

1. Purity & Safety: Techniques like supercritical CO₂ ensure minimal residual solvents and higher safety profiles, which are vital for spa, clinic, and wellness studio use.
   
   
2. Full-Spectrum Benefits: Methods that preserve terpenes and minor cannabinoids, like ethanol extraction, help support the entourage effect, enhancing therapeutic potential.
   
   
3. Regulatory Oversight: Clean, third-party-verified extracts build trust in environments where cannabis-like products meet rigorous compliance standards.

As we’ll discuss, not all CBD oils are alike, and having a trusted source for the best CBD products means understanding their source. At SuperTrees, we focus on  CO₂ extraction for several key reasons.

When CBD is extracted using high heat, the oil can oxidize, which may lead to an inflammatory response upon consumption. For individuals relying on CBD oils to combat inflammation, heat extraction may exacerbate the problem rather than alleviating it. Ethanol extraction can bring unwanted molecules into the mix, resulting in a bitter taste.

In contrast, CO₂ extraction is considered the gold standard for producing high-quality CBD oils because it uses pressurized carbon dioxide to gently separate cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids without the need for harsh solvents.

This method not only ensures a pure and clean product but also preserves delicate terpenes, which contribute therapeutic value such as relaxation, focus, and mood support. Additionally, some flavonoids retained in the process may offer anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, and neuroprotective benefits.

Benefits of CO₂ extraction:

• Produces a clean, solvent-free extract
  
  
• Preserves delicate terpenes for added therapeutic effects
  
  
• Retains beneficial flavonoids with protective health properties
  
  
• Ensures consistency and high quality in CBD products.

Glossary: Understanding Cannabinoids

Before we delve deeper into the topic, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of some key terminology and CBD products we’ll be discussing.

Here are a few essential terms and components you’ll want to know:

Cannabinoid Basics

Cannabinoids – Naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help regulate mood, pain, sleep, immune response, and more.

CBD (Cannabidiol) – A non-intoxicating cannabinoid known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and wellness-supporting properties. Found in both CBD isolate and full-spectrum products.

CBG (Cannabigerol) – Often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the precursor to CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids. Known for potential benefits in reducing inflammation, supporting focus, and balancing mood.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. In hemp-derived CBD products, THC levels are legally limited to 0.3% or less in the U.S., which is too low to produce a “high” but may contribute to the entourage effect.

CBC (Cannabichromene) – A non-intoxicating cannabinoid studied for its possible role in mood support, anti-inflammatory activity, and supporting healthy brain function.

Endocannabinoid System (ECS) – A complex cell-signaling network in the human body that helps maintain internal balance (homeostasis) by regulating processes like pain sensation, immune response, mood, and sleep.

Entourage Effect – The synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, producing effects greater than any single compound alone.

Full-Spectrum CBD – CBD oil containing all naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC, is designed to maximize the entourage effect.

Broad-Spectrum CBD – Similar to full-spectrum, but with THC removed to undetectable levels while retaining other cannabinoids and terpenes.

CBD Isolate (pictures)– Pure CBD with all other cannabinoids and plant compounds removed; offers targeted CBD benefits without THC exposure.

Now that we’ve got the basics, let’s dig a little deeper into the two cannabinoids we’re focused on today: CBD and CBG.

Take me to the FAQ

CBG vs CBD: Key Differences & Benefits

Cannabinoids can get confusing, but each cannabinoid has a unique interaction with the body. Therefore, understanding two of the key players is essential, especially their roles in full-spectrum CBD oils.

Both CBG and CBD are synthesized from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). As the plant matures, CBGA primarily converts into CBDA and THCA, which limits the CBG content in mature plants. For that reason, whenever discussing CBG, it’s important to know that, in CBD products, it is usually present in small amounts.

What Are CBD and CBG?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of the most abundant non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in hemp. It’s widely respected for its calming and balancing properties, making it a great option for oils, tinctures, topicals, and supplements. 

CBG (Cannabigerol) is a minor cannabinoid, but as the mother of all cannabinoids, it is the precursor to both CBD and THC. CBG is known for the following benefits: 

• Focus and mental clarity — sometimes referred to as the “energy” or “daytime” cannabinoid.
  
  
• Gut health — may help with digestive discomfort and inflammation in the GI tract.
  
  
• Healthy mood — potential influence on serotonin receptors.
  
  
• Eye health — studied for its impact on intraocular pressure.
  
  
• Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits — potential role in protecting nerve cells and reducing inflammation.

CBG typically appears in full-spectrum CBD oils, specialized CBG tinctures, capsules, and topicals designed to provide these benefits.

The Effects of CBD vs CBG

Perhaps the most critical concept when working with cannabinoids is that, despite being similar, their effects can be noticeably different.

• CBG is often described as uplifting and energizing, promoting focus and mental clarity, which makes it ideal for daytime use. CBG also has potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective abilities. Additionally, CBG has shown promise for antibacterial, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects. It is also being studied for its potential benefits to gut health, bladder support, and ocular pressure.
  
  
• CBD is better known for its relaxing, stress-relieving, and comfort-promoting effects, which make it especially helpful for sleep and overall balance. It’s also well-suited for stress relief, sleep support, and general calming wellness. 

CBD vs CBG for Holistic Businesses

For owners of holistic businesses, wellness centers, and clinics, understanding CBD vs CBG can help you tailor product recommendations to client needs. There’s a considerable difference between those seeking focus, relaxation, or performance support. Highlighting the subtle differences between these cannabinoids builds trust in your expertise and your ability to find natural solutions to support patients on their path to herbal wellness. 

Full‑Spectrum CBD Oil: CBG’s Role

What Is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?

Full-spectrum CBD oil refers to an extract that contains CBD and a range of other naturally occurring compounds, including minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, terpenes, flavonoids, and trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3% by law). While CBD isolate alone has benefits, full-spectrum CBD captures the plant’s therapeutic complexity.

In fact, research suggests that full-spectrum CBD products help harness the aforementioned entourage effect, where the combined efforts amplify the wellness benefits when compared to CBD alone. This is especially true when it comes to pain management.

CBG’s Role in Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

As mentioned, CBG is typically present in lower concentrations, but it still adds meaningful depth to full-spectrum formulations:

• CBG differentiates itself by primarily engaging with CB1 and CB2 receptors, as well as other parts of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). It's also recognized for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective potential, as well as its ability to block specific serotonin receptors.
  
  
• The entourage effect, even if CBG levels are low, may enhance the therapeutic quality of full-spectrum CBD. Users often report effects like improved focus, clarity, and immune support, which CBD alone may not reliably deliver.

For those interested in and providing herbal wellness through clinics, studios, or holistic healthcare, CBG is a critical component when selecting CBD products. Full-spectrum CBD demonstrates broader therapeutic benefits, addressing inflammation, relaxation, pain, and cognitive clarity. CBG contributes to this by targeting immune and neuromodulatory pathways.

Similarly, clinics and wellness studios offering full-spectrum CBD blends with CBG can uniquely position themselves as providing advanced, naturally synergistic products.

However, it’s important to note that a quality full-spectrum CBD oil isn't just about CBD vs CBG; it's also about harnessing the lesser-known but equally important natural constituents. CBG, though minor in quantity, plays a meaningful and multifaceted role.

CBD Isolate Tincture vs Full‑Spectrum: Role of CBG

With so many products available, it's easy to become overwhelmed by all the options. One of you may see is CBD Isolate Tincture, which contains only pure CBD. This means it’s quite distinct from full-spectrum CBD, as it does not include any of the other beneficial cannabinoids (including CBG). 

It is, however, ideal for users who want precise dosing without any exposure to THC or other cannabinoids. This makes it especially useful for patients who may be sensitive to THC or those with workplaces that require drug testing.

Uses & Potential Benefits of CBG vs CBD

We’ve touched on some of the benefits of these cannabinoids. Still, when comparing CBG and CBD, it can be helpful to think of them as occasionally overlapping partners that meet different needs. Both should, however, be included in the herbal wellness toolkit, as each has unique advantages.

Here’s a quick breakdown, in simple terms:

• CBD is best known for helping with stress relief, relaxation, and discomfort, from everyday unease to more challenging types of pain. It's also used for better sleep and has even been approved in a prescription formulation for certain seizure conditions.
  
  
• CBG is gaining attention for its more focused, energizing qualities. Early findings suggest it may support mental clarity, gut health, and anti-inflammatory processes. It may also help protect brain health and has shown promise in targeting harmful bacteria.

In short:

• Consider using a CBD isolate when you’re aiming to unwind, soothe discomfort, or support restful sleep.
  
  
• Consider CBG if you're looking for daytime focus, digestive support, or a boost in overall clarity and immune support.
  
  
• And if you want the best of both worlds? Full-spectrum CBD oils, which include both cannabinoids, may offer a more balanced, holistic effect.

Other CBD Products

We’ve briefly touched on some of the available CBD products, but we’ve largely discussed oils and tinctures. There’s a whole world of products out there, each with distinct advantages. 

Below is a quick overview of popular CBD formats as well as their advantages and things to consider:

• Tinctures (Sublingual Liquids):
  These are CBD oils, often administered under the tongue (sub-lingual) for faster absorption into the bloodstream. They offer precise dosing and generally work quicker than edibles. Great if you want flexibility and control over how much you take.
  
  • Pros: Fast-acting, easy to adjust dose, discreet.
  • Cons: Taste may be strong; effects can vary if swallowed instead of held briefly under the tongue.
    
    
• Capsules or Pills:
  CBD in a pill form, like more traditional herbal supplements, for those who prefer a tasteless, no-fuss option.
  
  • Pros: Convenient, pre-measured servings, easy for multi-supplement regimens.
  • Cons: Slower to take effect because they must be digested.
    
    
• Edibles (e.g., Gummies, Chocolates):
  These tasty treats offer a familiar and discreet way to take CBD. They're often preferred by those who dislike oils or capsules.
  
  • Pros: A variety of flavors. A bit more fun/gimmicky, often appealing to people new to CBD.
  • Cons: Effects take longer to kick in (up to 90 minutes); may contain sugar or artificial ingredients.
    
    
• Topicals (Creams, Lotions, Balms):
  Applied directly to affected areas, such as joints or muscles, CBD topicals can be especially helpful for localized relief from discomfort, pain, or inflammation.
  
  • Pros: Targets specific areas without systemic absorption; typically safe, even when used alongside other CBD formats.
  • Cons: Doesn’t offer benefits you’d get systemically—like promoting calm or sleep.
    
    
• Vapes & Inhaled CBD (if applicable/regulated):
  When legal and available, inhalation delivers CBD quickly through the lungs.
  •  Pros: Fastest onset of effects.
  •  Cons: Harder to dose precisely; potential respiratory concerns

Why Choose One CBD Product Format Over Another?

• Tinctures: quick onset and adjustable dosing.
  
• Capsules and pills: straightforward and discreet.
  
• Edibles: pleasant experience and easy use.
  
• Topicals: Focused, external relief post-workout or to relieve joint tension.
  
• Inhalables/vapes: Immediate effects, but only suitable for areas where vape pens may be legal. 

Tip for practitioners: Offering multiple CBD product formats in your clinic or studio ensures you can address varying client needs from sleep support and stress relief to targeted comfort and travel-friendly options.

FAQs Including CBG vs CBD

Looking for the quick answers to your questions? Here’a a brief FAQ!

1. What’s the main difference between CBD and CBG?
CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) are both cannabinoids from the hemp plant, but they interact differently with the body’s endocannabinoid system. CBD is more researched and widely used for relaxation, mood support, and discomfort, while CBG is being studied for focus, gut health, and neuroprotective potential.

2. Can I take CBD and CBG together?
Yes. Many full-spectrum CBD oils naturally contain small amounts of CBG, and some products are formulated with higher CBG content to enhance effects through the “entourage effect.”

3. What is a CBD isolate tincture?
A CBD isolate tincture contains only CBD—no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. This can be ideal if you want to avoid THC entirely or prefer a single-compound approach.

4. What is full-spectrum CBD oil?
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains CBD plus other cannabinoids (like CBG, CBC, and trace THC), along with terpenes and flavonoids. This combination offers more balanced effects compared to CBD alone.

5. Is CBG stronger than CBD?
“Stronger” depends on the desired outcome. CBG isn’t necessarily more potent, but it may be better suited for specific uses, like supporting focus, gut health, or a balanced inflammatory response.

6. Are CBD and CBG products legal?
In the U.S., hemp-derived CBD and CBG products containing less than 0.3% THC are federally legal, though state laws can vary. Always check your local regulations before making a purchase.

7. What are common CBD product types?
CBD is available in various forms, including tinctures, capsules, gummies, topicals, beverages, and vapes. The best choice depends on how quickly you want it to work, how long you want effects to last, and your personal preferences.

8. Are there side effects from CBD or CBG?
Both are generally well-tolerated but can cause mild side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite, in some people. It’s best to start with a low dose and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

9. Can CBD or CBG make you high?
No. Neither CBD nor CBG is intoxicating. However, full-spectrum products may contain trace THC, which is not enough to cause a “high” but could appear on a sensitive drug test.

10. How do I choose between CBD and CBG products?
Consider your wellness goals. For broad relaxation, mood, or sleep support, CBD-dominant products are often chosen. For focus, gut health, or more targeted wellness needs, a formula with higher CBG content may be a better fit.

While CBD oils and products have become ubiquitous, in many cases, education has accompanied product availability. For that reason, many practitioners may be reluctant to share products with patients who may benefit from CBD oil and other CBD products.

Another concern is the quality of the products. As healthcare practitioners, consumers, and producers of CBD products, the SuperTrees team puts quality at the forefront of our production and product development.

Our CBD oils are sourced from organic sources, ensuring we extract and produce some of the cleanest and highest-quality CBD oils and other products on the market. You don’t need to take our word for it; see what our customers have to say.

Whether you’re looking to purchase botanical products for personal use or wholesale bundles for your holistic wellness center, clinic, or other wellness business or program, we’re here to help!

Reach out to the SuperTrees Botanicals team today and let us help you continue on your path to wellness!