The Anti-Cancer Benefits of CBGa (Cannabigerolic acid)

Learn about the anti-cancer benefits of Cannabigerolic acid (CBGa), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.

Written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, and Retired Pharmacist

The world of health and wellness is continually evolving, with new research and discoveries coming to light regularly. One such breakthrough is the potential anti-cancer benefits of Cannabigerolic acid (CBGa), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. This blog post explores the potential benefits of CBGa, its sources, and possible concerns and side effects, all backed by medical journal references.

Understanding CBGa

CBGa, often called the "mother of all cannabinoids," is the precursor from which other cannabinoids are made in the plant. It's sourced from the cannabis plant, specifically from young, immature plants. CBGa is non-psychoactive, meaning it won't cause the "high" associated with cannabis use. Its previous research has been hampered because the plant Cannabis sativa L. was classified as a Schedule 1 narcotic and challenging to obtain for research. Now that the narcotic restrictions have eased, researchers are studying the more than 120 cannabinoids in the plant.[i]

Other Uses of CBGa

CBG-predominant cannabis is used for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, depression, and insomnia/disturbed sleep. Users report their conditions were “very much improved” or much improved” by CBG. The most common side effects include dry mouth, sleepiness, increased appetite, and dry eyes. This CBG-predominant cannabis does contain some THC, and 13.7% of users reported sleep difficulties as the most common withdrawal symptom.[ii]

How CBGa Works

CBGa interacts with our body's endocannabinoid system. This complex cell-signaling system regulates various functions and processes, including sleep, mood, appetite, and immune response. CBGa's interaction with this system is believed to have potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-cancer properties. CBGa decreases the Cox-2 inflammatory activity also known as a risk for cancers.[iii] CBGa may also have some benefit for elevated blood glucose and diabetes concerns.[iv]

The cannabinoid system in the body is so crucial that drug companies are creating synthetic analogs for future patented medication use.[v] [vi]

CBGa and Cancer: What Research Says

Several laboratory studies have explored the potential anti-cancer benefits of CBGa. At the time of this summary's publication, Colon Cancer[vii] and Colorectal Cancer[viii] were the only cancers studied. It's important to note that these studies are preliminary and conducted in laboratory settings. More research is needed to fully understand CBGa's potential as a cancer treatment, particularly in animals and humans.

CBGa was found to decrease the damage to kidneys caused by the chemotherapy drug cisplatin.[ix]

Potential Concerns and Side Effects of CBGa

Like any substance, CBGa may have potential side effects and concerns. Some people may experience mild side effects like changes in appetite or mood. However, these effects are typically mild and temporary.

 One of the main concerns about CBGa is its source - the cannabis plant. Despite its non-psychoactive nature, there's still a stigma associated with cannabis and its derivatives. It's also worth noting that the legal status of cannabis varies widely, which can impact the availability and use of CBGa.

CBG’s Potential Interaction with Other Medications

Before using CBG for cancer, you should understand how it interacts with other drugs and whether these interactions pose any adverse side effects. Individuals who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment should especially take heed.

So, some drugs CBG can interact with include:[x]

• antibiotics and antimicrobials
• anticancer medications
• antihistamines
• antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
• blood pressure medications
• blood thinners
• cholesterol medications
• corticosteroids
• erectile dysfunction medications
• gastrointestinal (GI) medications
• heart rhythm medications
• immunosuppressants
• mood medications, such as those used to treat anxiety, depression
• pain medications
• prostate medications

Work with a healthcare provider or cancer coach who is familiar with these potential interactions.

Look for Terpenes

Other substances in the cannabis plant enhance the activity of CBGa. Please verify that the product lists that it contains terpenes to obtain better activities.[xi]

Conclusion of Cancer and CBGa

The potential anti-cancer benefits of CBGa are promising, but it's crucial to approach this topic with a balanced perspective. More research is needed to fully understand CBGa's potential and how it can be safely and effectively used. Always consult with a healthcare professional and cancer coach before starting any new treatment.

For more information on health and wellness, stay tuned to Prevail Over Cancer. Our mission is to provide the latest information and resources to help you lead a healthier life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. 

My favorite brand of CBGa is Onco-Adjunct Pathway 1 drops. You may use a discount code of PREVAIL5 (if you don't already receive a discount) with both of these sources: 

• UltraBotanica
• Flourish Nutraceuticals 

References:

[i] Walsh KB, McKinney AE, Holmes AE. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. Front Pharmacol. 2021;12:777804. Published 2021 Nov 29. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.777804 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8669157/

[ii] Russo EB, Cuttler C, Cooper ZD, Stueber A, Whiteley VL, Sexton M. Survey of Patients Employing Cannabigerol-Predominant Cannabis Preparations: Perceived Medical Effects, Adverse Events, and Withdrawal Symptoms. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2022;7(5):706-716. doi:10.1089/can.2021.0058 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9587780/

[iii] Ruhaak LR, Felth J, Karlsson PC, Rafter JJ, Verpoorte R, Bohlin L. Evaluation of the cyclooxygenase inhibiting effects of six major cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa. Biol Pharm Bull. 2011;34(5):774-778. doi:10.1248/bpb.34.774  https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/34/5/34_5_774/_article

[iv] Smeriglio A, Giofrè SV, Galati EM, et al. Inhibition of aldose reductase activity by Cannabis sativa chemotypes extracts with high content of cannabidiol or cannabigerol. Fitoterapia. 2018;127:101-108. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2018.02.002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0367326X17317598?via%3Dihub

[v] Tanaya R, Kodama T, Lee YE, et al. Catalytic Potential of Cannabis Prenyltransferase to Expand Cannabinoid Scaffold Diversity. Org Lett. 2023;25(48):8601-8605. doi:10.1021/acs.orglett.3c03410 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.orglett.3c03410

[vi] Tanaya R, Kodama T, Maneenet J, et al. Substrate-Dependent Alteration in the C- and O-Prenylation Specificities of Cannabis Prenyltransferase. Biol Pharm Bull. 2024;47(2):449-453. doi:10.1248/bpb.b23-00868 https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/47/2/47_b23-00868/_article

[vii] Bęben D, Siwiela O, Szyjka A, et al. Phytocannabinoids CBD, CBG, and their Derivatives CBD-HQ and CBG-A Induced In Vitro Cytotoxicity in 2D and 3D Colon Cancer Cell Models. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2024;46(4):3626-3639. Published 2024 Apr 19. doi:10.3390/cimb46040227 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11048930/

[viii] Nallathambi R, Mazuz M, Namdar D, et al. Identification of Synergistic Interaction Between Cannabis-Derived Compounds for Cytotoxic Activity in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines and Colon Polyps That Induces Apoptosis-Related Cell Death and Distinct Gene Expression. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2018;3(1):120-135. Published 2018 Jun 1. doi:10.1089/can.2018.0010  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6038055/

[ix] Suzuki S, Fleig A, Penner R. CBGA ameliorates inflammation and fibrosis in nephropathy. Sci Rep. 2023;13(1):6341. Published 2023 Apr 18. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-33507-2 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10113213/ 

[x] https://healthmed.org/cbg-for-cancer-everything-you-need-to-know/ accessed 01/19/2025

[xi] Li D, Ilnytskyy Y, Ghasemi Gojani E, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Analysis of Anti-Cancer and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of 25 High-THC Cannabis Extracts. Molecules. 2022;27(18):6057. Published 2022 Sep 16. doi:10.3390/molecules27186057 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9506243/