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CBD gets most of the attention, but it is far from the only cannabinoid in hemp. CBG, sometimes called the mother cannabinoid, is one of the most interesting. This guide explains what CBG is, where it comes from and how it relates to CBD. It is information only, and we make no medical or health claims.
What is CBG?
CBG stands for cannabigerol, one of the many natural cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. It is often called the mother cannabinoid because its acidic form, CBGA, is the chemical starting point from which other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, are formed as the plant grows. In most mature hemp, CBG is present only in small amounts, because most of it has already converted into other cannabinoids.
Why is CBG called the mother cannabinoid?
As a hemp plant develops, CBGA acts as a precursor. Enzymes convert it into the acidic forms of CBD, THC and other cannabinoids. By the time the plant is fully mature, most of the original CBG has been used up, which is why it usually appears in low concentrations in finished flower. Understanding this helps explain how the plant's cannabinoid profile forms in the first place.
CBG vs CBD
CBG and CBD are different cannabinoids, though they share some similarities and both come from hemp. The main practical difference is abundance: CBD is typically present in far higher amounts in CBD-rich hemp flower, while CBG is usually a minor cannabinoid. Neither is intoxicating in the way THC can be. For the CBD and THC comparison, see our guide, CBD vs THC.
Is CBG in CBD flower?
Yes, in small amounts. Full spectrum products like CBD flower and hash naturally contain a range of minor cannabinoids alongside CBD, which can include CBG. This is part of the whole-plant profile discussed in our guides on full spectrum vs broad spectrum vs isolate and the entourage effect. Browse whole-plant options in our CBD flower range.
Is CBG legal in the UK?
CBG, like CBD, is not itself a controlled substance. However, hemp flower and products derived from the cannabis plant sit in a legal grey area regardless of their cannabinoid mix. See our guide, Is CBD Flower Legal in the UK? Information only, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBG the same as CBD?
No. They are different cannabinoids. CBG is the precursor from which CBD and others form, and it usually appears in much smaller amounts.
Does CBG get you high?
CBG is not associated with the intoxication linked to THC. We make no claims about its effects, and research is ongoing.
Is there CBG in hemp flower?
Usually in small amounts, as part of the plant's full range of minor cannabinoids.
The bottom line
CBG is the mother cannabinoid, the precursor from which CBD, THC and others form as hemp grows. It usually appears in small amounts in finished flower. Like CBD, it is not itself controlled, though hemp products sit in a legal grey area. Research into CBG continues.
Written and reviewed by the Easygreen CBD team, UK hemp specialists. Reviewed and updated: July 2026. General information only. We make no medical or health claims about CBG or any cannabinoid, and research is ongoing.
