CBG vs. CBD vs. CBN vs. CBC - The Ultimate Comparison Guide

The quick answer: CBD, CBN, CBG, and CBC are all non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Each one interacts with the body differently and is associated with a different primary use.

• CBD is the most researched and most versatile; it’s used for everyday calm and discomfort. 
• CBG is typically associated with daytime focus and inflammation . 
• CBN is often most associated with sleep support. 
• CBC, the least studied cannabinoid, is usually used alongside the others for mood and inflammation.

However, these cannabinoids may work together through the entourage effect, so many people combine them rather than choosing just one.

Understanding CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC 

Cannabis plants have come a long way, from being tied to old stereotypes to being recognized for their potential wellness benefits. Most people know the two most famous cannabinoids, THC and CBD, but the plant produces over one hundred more. In recent years, non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and CBC (cannabichromene) have arrived alongside CBD (cannabidiol), each with its own properties and potential uses.

This guide compares CBG vs. CBD vs. CBN vs. CBC so you can decide which one fits your goals, whether that’s sleep, focus, everyday discomfort, or mood support. We’ll cover:

• How each cannabinoid works
• What research suggests about its potential benefits
• How they may work better together

At-a-Glance 

Here is how these four non-intoxicating cannabinoids compare at a glance. Use this table as a quick reference, then read on for more details about each one.

Introducing CBG: The Rising Star of Cannabinoids

CBG is found in all cannabis plants and is gaining popularity as a potential wellness compound. It is associated with potential pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, and some studies suggest CBG may also have anti-cancer and antidepressant potential.

CBG is often called the “stem cell” of cannabinoids because it converts into other cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, or THC through an enzymatic process. Unlike the others, CBG is usually derived directly from plants that are bred to produce high concentrations of it, rather than being converted from another cannabinoid.

Like CBD, CBG is non-intoxicating, and many hemp users report that the effects feel almost identical. Under the hood, though, CBG interacts with the body through different mechanisms. At the receptor level, CBG may act at the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and early research suggests CBG may offer a few unique benefits. 

Many people find CBG useful for supporting inflammatory discomfort, mood, and focus without the sleepy effect they may notice with regular CBD products.

Potential Pain and Inflammation Benefits

Researchers are continuing to explore the potential role of CBG in supporting the body's response to pain and inflammation. Early findings suggest that CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system in ways that may influence discomfort and inflammatory processes, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Interest in CBG's potential applications for pain management remains an active area of study.

Potential Digestive Benefits

Limited preliminary research has looked into the potential digestive benefits of cannabigerol. For instance, scientists have investigated the impact of this cannabinoid on colitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Potential Antibacterial Benefits

Preliminary research has also looked into the potential antibacterial properties of CBG. Scientists believe there are sufficient grounds to further investigate the usefulness of this cannabinoid for bacterial infections.

Kine offers CBG on its own in our CBG Drops and combined with CBD to help you lean on the effects of both. For people who want CBG and CBD together, we offer a CBD/CBG Tincture and CBG/CBD 1:1 Drops.

 

However, the world of cannabinoids goes beyond just THC and CBD. In recent years, other non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and CBC (cannabichromene) have emerged on the market, each with its own unique properties and potential benefits.  Cannabidiol (CBD) may be the talk of the town, but as the saying goes, variety is the spice of life.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of non-intoxicating cannabinoids and explore the similarities, differences, and potential uses of CBG, CBD, CBN, and CBC. Whether you're new to cannabinoids or looking to expand your knowledge, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about which cannabinoid may be right for your specific needs.

Mature Cannabis sativa flower contains hundreds of different compounds and the majority of these substances are either flavonoids, terpenes, or analogs (copies) of a few central cannabinoids. Depending on who you ask, there are either six or eight important, chemically distinct cannabinoids, and each of these cannabinoids has unique properties.

Starting with the widespread realization that CBD may have potent therapeutic value in the early 2000s, it took nearly 10 years for breeders to develop high-quality Cannabis sativa phenotypes that are high in CBD instead of THC. It’s rather remarkable, therefore, that efforts to breed hemp strains that are high in CBG, CBN, and CBC have evolved at such a rapid pace.

Introducing CBG: The Rising Star of Cannabinoids

Let's begin our exploration of non-intoxicating cannabinoids with cannabigerol (CBG). CBG is found in all cannabis plants and is gaining popularity as a potential therapeutic compound. It is known for its potential pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Some studies suggest that CBG may also have anti-cancer and antidepressant effects.

CBG is considered the "stem cell" of cannabinoids as it can convert into other cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, or THC through an enzymatic process. Unlike other cannabinoids, CBG is derived directly from plants that naturally produce high concentrations of CBG, rather than being derived from other cannabinoids through conversion processes.

While CBG breeding is still in its early stages, hemp strains with high CBG concentrations are becoming more available. Although CBG flower strains with concentrations above 15% are rare, even small amounts of CBG can provide a glimpse into its potential benefits. 

A 2008 review of the available evidence covered studies indicating that CBG may act as an agonist at the CB1 and CB2 receptors without causing any intoxicating effects. This review also pointed out that CBG may additionally act as a GABA reuptake inhibitor.

These results indicate that CBG may have a relationship with both neuropathic and inflammatory pain. The usefulness of CBG for neuropathic pain was further explored by a 2018 study, indicating that interest in CBG for pain remains strong within the scientific community.

Potential Digestive Benefits

Limited preliminary research has been conducted into the potential digestive benefits of cannabigerol. For instance, scientists have investigated the impact of this cannabinoid on colitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Preliminary research has been conducted into the potential antibacterial properties of CBG. Scientists believe that there are sufficient grounds to further investigate the usefulness of this cannabinoid for bacterial infections.

Kine offers multiple products with CBG alone and combined with CBD to maximize the effects of both (the entourage effect).  

CBG vs. CBD: Exploring Similarities and Differences

CBG and CBD share structural similarities and have overlapping effects, but they also have distinct characteristics. While CBD primarily acts on the central nervous system, CBG's effects are more focused throughout the body's periphery. For example, CBG has shown potential for digestive benefits, which is not a primary target of CBD research.

While some of the effects of CBG overlap with the effects offered by CBD, these cannabinoids are different enough to merit using them together. In addition, combining two or more cannabinoids appears to provide the entourage effect, an as-yet unexplained phenomenon that appears to enhance the effects of cannabinoids when more than one of these unique compounds are ingested at the same time. Rather than choosing between CBD and CBG, using both cannabinoids simultaneously may offer the best results for individuals seeking a comprehensive cannabinoid experience.

Kine offers 1:1 ratio CBD/CBG in a sublingual lozenge, a clean MCT oil-based tincture, and our ultra-popular topical Kine Balm.

Understanding CBN: The Sleep Support Cannabinoid

Cannabinol (CBN) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that has gained attention for its potential sleep support properties. While there are cannabis strains high in CBG or CBD, high-CBN strains are not as prevalent. Most CBN on the market is derived through a chemical conversion process that transforms CBD into CBN.

CBN was extensively researched alongside THC and CBD in the early days of cannabis studies but lost focus over time. However, the recent CBD revolution has revived interest in CBN and its unique benefits.

While scientific research on CBN's sleep support properties is ongoing, many users have reported impressive results when using CBN for sleep. CBN also offers potential antibacterial, neuroprotective, and appetite-stimulating benefits.

Like CBG, CBN has been researched for its potential antibacterial qualities. A 2008 study showed, for instance, that CBN eliminated certain types of MRSA bacteria, but these results have not been corroborated by further research. Since these two cannabinoids have different activity profiles, using CBG and CBN in tandem to fight bacterial infections should be a target of future research.

A 2004 study found that CBN delayed the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a type of neurodegenerative disease. Based on this research, scientists suspect that CBN may be useful as a general neuroprotective agent, which would be a reasonable assumption since every other cannabinoid is also believed to have at least some neuroprotective activity.

THC has been used for years as an appetite stimulant, but the intoxicating qualities of this cannabinoid make it undesirable for this purpose. A 2012 pre-clinical study found that CBN increased appetite, which has led some cannabinoid experts to believe that this cannabinoid could serve as an adequate replacement for THC that doesn’t induce significant psychoactive effects.

CBN is typically touted as a sleep aid, and many people turn to CBN products for their calming effects for a melatonin-free, natural sleep support supplement.  While there’s only a very limited amount of scientific evidence indicating that CBN may be useful for sleep, consumers have used this cannabinoid extensively as a sleep aid, which has provided a lot of compelling anecdotal evidence. CBN has also been investigated for its analgesic qualities. 

Kine offers CBN in both our Kine Drops and Kine Tincture formulations.

CBN vs. CBD: What Is The Difference Between CBD and CBN?

If CBD is the dependable elder sibling, then CBN and CBG are the adventurous younger twins, climbing up the popularity charts quicker than you can say "cannabinoid." But are these emerging stars really all that, or is this another case of marketing smoke and mirrors?  While CBN shares some similarities with CBD, it also exhibits characteristics that differentiate it from other cannabinoids. In terms of chemical structure, CBN is more similar to THC than CBD, which has led to extensive research on the effects of CBN in combination with THC.

CBN has shown potential as a sleep aid, with many users reporting significant improvements in sleep quality. In contrast, CBD's effects on sleep are more varied and less consistent. Additionally, CBN and CBG share antibacterial properties, while CBD and CBC do not. CBN occupies a unique space between intoxicating and non-intoxicating cannabinoids, offering potential benefits without inducing significant psychoactive effects.

You can get a CBD/CBG/CBN 1:1:1 ratio Kine Tincture here.

CBN vs. CBD: Chemical Structure and Origin

The big differences between CBN vs CBD are in their chemical structures. CBN is formed when THC is exposed to heat and oxygen. Over time, THC gradually breaks down to form CBN. On the other hand, CBD is directly produced by the cannabis plant. This difference in origin is crucial because it implies that CBN contains remnants of THC's properties, albeit without its psychoactive effects.

CBN vs. CBD: Effects on the Body

If you are assessing the effects of CBN vs CBD, both interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, but they do so in slightly different ways. CBD primarily interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors indirectly, while CBN interacts more directly, especially with the CB2 receptor. 

CBD vs. CBN: Side Effects Explored

While both are lauded for their potential therapeutic benefits, it’s important to understand the different side effects of CBN vs CBD. For instance, CBD is generally well-tolerated, but some users have reported experiencing dry mouth, reduced appetite, and feelings of drowsiness. Alternatively, CBN is recognized for its possible sedative properties, which often lead to users noting drowsiness or mild sedation, especially at higher doses. It's also worth noting that since CBN is a degradation product of THC, there's a need to ensure the CBN source has minimal THC content to avoid unwanted psychoactive effects, which Kine does by using CBN isolate - 0% THC.   Additionally, CBD has been known to interfere with certain medications, emphasizing the importance of monitoring any interactions. As always, starting with a lower dose and being aware of one's body reactions is crucial, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable when adding new supplements or medications to one's regimen.

CBD vs. CBN: Pricing

When comparing the pricing of CBD vs CBN - CBD products generally tend to be more affordable due to their widespread cultivation and longer presence in the market. CBN, on the other hand, often commands a higher price. This is attributed to its complex extraction process, its status as a byproduct of THC degradation, and its emerging demand in the wellness market for its distinct properties, especially its potential sedative effects. However, as the market continues to evolve and extraction techniques improve, CBN prices may become more competitive.  Kine always adjusts its pricing to reflect lower cannabinoid prices.

Is It Safe to Mix CBD and CBN?

Every person is different and, therefore, may experience different results.  Having said that, some people have opted to mix CBD and CBN with safe and promising results.  Moreover, many products on the market already combine these cannabinoids to leverage the "entourage effect," amplifying their therapeutic properties. One may want to mix these two because of the different outcomes they provide. While CBD offers relaxation and potential anti-inflammatory benefits, CBN is prized for its possible sedative qualities. When trying such combinations, start with a lower dose to gauge reactions and consider consulting a healthcare professional to ensure safety.  

Is CBN Better Than CBD?

There isn’t a cut-and-dry answer when it comes to the difference between CBD and CBN in terms of which is “better.” It largely depends on the specific needs and outcomes an individual is looking for: 

For Sleep: While considering CBD and CBN for sleep, CBN is gaining recognition for its potential sedative effects. This may make it more effective than CBD for those specifically seeking improved sleep quality.

For Anxiety and Stress Relief: CBD has been extensively researched for its potential anxiolytic effects, suggesting it may be more beneficial for those dealing with anxiety and stress.

For Broader Benefits: CBD, having been researched more extensively, is recognized for a wider range of potential benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotective qualities, and even possible antiseizure effects.

Synergistic Use: It's essential to understand that one isn't necessarily "better" than the other universally. In many cases, using both cannabinoids in tandem can provide comprehensive benefits. The combined use can tap into the 'entourage effect', where the presence of multiple cannabinoids can enhance the overall effectiveness of each.

Exploring the Potential of CBC: The Lesser-Known Cannabinoid

Cannabichromene (CBC) is a lesser-known cannabinoid that has received less attention compared to CBD and CBG. Currently, there are no high-CBC cannabis strains available, and CBC is typically derived from CBGa, the starting compound for many cannabinoids.

Like CBD, CBG, and CBN, CBC is non-intoxicating. While its effects may feel similar to CBD when ingested, CBC has a unique chemical structure and exerts different effects. Although research on CBC is limited, early studies suggest that it may have potential anti-cancer, neurological health, and analgesic benefits.  As an antibiotic, it’s been shown to help with infections that are resistant to other treatments, and may help protect the brain from neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s. It has also been shown to be an antidepressant, have anti-cancer benefits, and even help fight acne.

CBC was first investigated for its relationship with cancer in 2006 as part of a study designed to better understand the effects of cannabinoid other than THC on tumor size and cancer progression. Unfortunately, no further research has been conducted into CBC and cancer since then, making it difficult to assess this cannabinoid’s potential anticarcinogenic properties.

A 2013 study investigated CBC’s potential to promote the formation of adult neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs), which are important cells that your brain can transform into astroglial cells. These cells are used to handle the passage of neurotransmitters throughout your brain and nervous system, and it’s believed that increased concentrations of astroglial cells may reduce the likelihood that you’ll develop Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.

Based on initial research, CBC has a much higher affinity for your nervous system’s TRPV1 receptors than CBD, which could make this cannabinoid a highly useful analgesic. Your TRPV1 receptors control the sensation of inflammatory pain in your body, and the pain caused by arthritis and many other common conditions is inflammatory in nature.

CBC vs. CBD: Differentiating Characteristics

While CBC and CBD may share potential neurological health benefits, they have distinct characteristics. CBC has a higher affinity for TRPV1 receptors, indicating its potential as an analgesic for inflammatory pain. In contrast, CBD shows roughly equal affinity for TRPV1 receptors and 5-HT1A receptors, which are involved in neuropathic pain. This suggests that CBC may be more beneficial for inflammatory pain, while CBD or another cannabinoid may be more suitable for neuropathic pain.

Every cannabinoid we’ve listed has been investigated for its relationship with pain. There are many different types of pain, but upon thorough consideration of all the different cannabinoids it expresses, Cannabis sativa almost appears to be nature’s answer to pain and inflammation. Despite its intoxicating qualities, even THC appears to be useful for pain, which makes it clear that future research into cannabis will make this plant’s effects on human pain and suffering a major issue.

Despite the differences, cannabinoids derived from Cannabis sativa do not conflict with each other. In fact, they can work together synergistically to enhance their effects in what's known as the entourage effect. Rather than choosing just one cannabinoid, combining multiple cannabinoids may offer a comprehensive and holistic approach to wellness.

Instead of thinking about which cannabinoids you should use while excluding all others, think about how CBD, CBC, CBG, and CBN may work together. All of these cannabinoids were originally extracted or otherwise derived from Cannabis sativa, so they’re like pieces of a complex, natural puzzle that fit together in harmony.

Just because you’re interested in the effects of one particular cannabinoid, however, doesn’t mean you have to entirely exclude all others. In the end, you may want to concoct a cannabinoid regimen that contains, say, 70% CBG, 10% CBD, 10% CBN, and 10% CBC. Doing so would allow you to focus extensively on one cannabinoid without excluding the potential benefits that other Cannabis sativa compounds have to offer or missing out on the synergy that may be provided by the entourage effect.

Check out our combination of formulations and cannabinoids here!