Cannabis has had its ups and downs in terms of its legality over the years and has jumped from freely used, to completely banned, all the way to partially legalized. The main reason behind the legal controversy of marijuana is its possession of THC or the psychoactive element responsible for the “high” sensation most people associate the herb with. Although this compound has some medical uses, THC can be a risky element as it can cause a number of negative effects, such as paranoia or the unlocking of mental disorders.
However, THC is not the only compound found in the magical plant. Cannabis is rich in a wide range of valuable cannabinoids, which have shown positive effects on the body. One of the most popular ones is CBD or cannabinoid, which is closely associated with the treatment of conditions such as depression, obesity, and even cancer. A number of U.S. states who have legalized cannabis for medical purposes freely sell products such as CBD oil, CBD tinctures, CBD edibles, and more. Although the plant is tolerated, its products must contain no more than 0.3% percent of THC in order for it to classify as legal.
But what about the other cannabinoids and their effect on the human body? Although some cannabinoids such as CBGM, for example, remain unpopular, they too play an essential role in the plants’ makeup. Let’s look at what CBGM is and how it can be of benefit to consumers.
The nature of CBGM
CBGM or cannabigerol monomethyl ether is a naturally found cannabinoid in cannabis, which falls under the same group of CBG or cannabigerol. This group of cannabinoids is mostly found in hemp and more specifically plants from north-east Asia. The cannabinoid was first announced in 1968 in Japan where scientists from Kyushu University discovered the compound. In attempts to extract certain elements from cannabis, the scientists noticed a substance resembling syrup colored in pale-yellow. This substance is what we call CBGM today.
CBGM along with one other cannabinoid is the only ether compound from the CBG group, meaning that it is made of an oxygen atom attached to two aryl or alkyl groups.
There is still insufficient research available on the cannabinoid to officially announce CBGM as a compound of medical use. However, the substance has been closely related to treating a range of health conditions and together with other cannabinoids is believed to have a significantly positive effect on the body.
CBGM and its medical effects on the human body
As mentioned, science has mainly focused on defining the molecular structure of the compound but little tests have been conducted to establish its health effects on the body. However, it has been assumed that the cannabinoid has a similar effect to other cannabinoids from the CBG group. On the other hand, as CBGM’s nature is that of an ether element, chances are that it may also possess completely unique traits.
What is certain is that CBGM is not a psychoactive compound, unlike THC, and will not produce a high effect once consumed. When looking at the relationship between other cannabinoids and their counterparts such as the bond between CBD and CBDV or THC and THCV, scientists uncover that each relationship brings forward different effects. While CBD and CBDV both provide a cure for anxiety, THC and THCV don’t act in the same way and THCV can even offset the psychoactive effects of THC.
Based on comparison and observation of the effects of CBGM, scientists have related the cannabinoid to the treatment of various conditions such as glaucoma, cancer, psoriasis, Alzheimer’s and Crohn’s disease, nausea, pain, and arthritis. However, patients suffering from these conditions and looking for an alternative remedy in the face of CBGM are advised to speak to a professional regarding the intake of the cannabinoid in order to receive legitimate and informed advice.
Potential side effects
The side effects of the consumption of cannabinoids remain a controversial territory. While some state that there are no severe side effects possible and no threat of developing an addiction for the compounds, others have suggested that they may lead to issues related to the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. Symptoms such as abdominal pain or vomiting have been related to the long-term consumption of cannabinoids. However, these symptoms are also typical for other conditions and it has not been established whether the cannabinoids have had a direct impact.
To avoid exposing your body to threat, speak to a professional regarding a cannabinoid treatment. CBGM and other cannabinoids can have a positive influence on a number of health conditions but must be approached with caution and care.
Sources:
https://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJM197510162931603
https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(16)00567-8/fulltext?cc=y=
