This summer's hot news: What is CBG9, what are its effects and how does it compare to HHC?

09. 09. 2024

1. What is CBG and how is it related to CBG9?
• What is CBG9, how is it made and what are its properties?
2. Effects of CBG9
3. Side effects
4. Comparison of CBG9 with HHC
5. What is CBG9's product offering, safety and legality?
• Available CBG9 products
• Safety and legality
6. Conclusion

 

 

 

What is CBG and how is it related to CBG9?

CBG (cannabigerol) is the chemical precursor for the development of other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. It is nicknamed the "mother of all cannabinoids" because without it there would be no CBD or THC.

The first cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant during the germination phase is CBG.

At the origin of all cannabinoids is CBGa, which is subsequently broken down into THCa, CBDa and CBCa. These substances are acidic forms of cannabinoids that are converted to THC, CBD, CBC and others when exposed to heat or ultraviolet light.

Because CBGa is converted into other cannabinoids, adult plants contain only low concentrations of CBG. And how does CBG relate to the latest addition to the cannabis family?

What is CBG9, how is it made and what are its properties?

CBG9 (CBG-9) is a derivative of CBG. The full name is cannabigerol-9, with the '9' denoting a specific variant that differs from cannabigerol (the original compound) in chemical structure and/or properties.

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) states that the official name of CBG9 is 2-[(2E)-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl]-5-pentyl-benzene-1,3-diol.

It is still not entirely clear whether CBG9 is a phytocannabinoid that can be directly extracted from cannabis or whether it is exclusively a (semi-)synthetic compound that scientists are synthesising from more readily available precursors such as cannabidiol (CBD).

 

But if we put together what we know about how commercial products are made from minor cannabinoids such as HHC, THCP, THCB, THCJD or THCH, the origin of CBG9 products is likely to be the same.

Although minor cannabinoids are found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant, their extraction is not only costly but also unable to meet demand. It is therefore produced (semi)synthetically.

In terms of unique properties, it is reported that CBG9 does not crystallise, just like CB9 (a CBD derivative). This property will make it less susceptible to deterioration (degradation) and give it a longer shelf life. And because it does not form crystals, it is easier to process and, due to its liquid form, may have a higher bioavailability.

Effects of CBG9

As it is a new cannabinoid, there is little data on how CBG9 works. For starters, we can tap into the Reddit discussion forum where users share their experiences and insights.

While one user claimed that CBG9 reminded him of a psychedelic variant of CBG - energising, energising with a slight 'stoned' feeling, another wrote that he felt no effects at all after taking CBG9 gummies and that pre-rolls felt similar to smoking large quantities of regular cannabis leaves.

In the experience of users, CBG9 may not have any psychoactive effects on some, whereas it may produce mild psychoactive effects comparable to HHC in others.

Furthermore, it can be assumed that cannabinoid derivatives usually have a similar type of effects as their parent compounds (precursors) but higher potency. Examples include HHCP, which acts as a strengthened version of HHC, or H4CBD, which acts as a stronger version of CBD.

Taking this hypothesis into account, it can be assumed that the effects of CBG9 will be similar to those of CBG, but most likely stronger.

These are the effects:

• Neuroprotective
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial
• Analgesic 

However, at the moment we lack studies to confirm/disprove the aforementioned properties attributed to CBG9.

 

Side effects

At present, we do not even have research on the side effects of CBG9. However, we do know from what we know so far about CBD and CBG that both of these cannabinoids are well tolerated substances.

Of course, further studies are needed to investigate the side effects of cannabigerol in particular in more detail.

Side effects may occur especially at high doses. Some individuals may experience unpleasant symptoms such as dry mouth, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea.

The effects mentioned above are usually mild and subside quickly. Their intensity will depend on several factors, including the dose and effectiveness of the product, age, body proportions, immunity and sensitivity of the individual.

Comparison of CBG9 with HHC

Now that we've established that CBG9 can have a similar effect on some people as HHC, let's also look at other differences/similarities between the two cannabinoids 👇.

	CBG9	HHC
Occurrence in the cannabis plant	There are currently differing opinions as to whether or not it is actually found in the cannabis plant.	Yes, only in low concentration
Specifications	Possibly a semi-synthetic cannabinoid; a derivative of CBG. Produced synthetically from more readily available precursors (CBD).	A semi-synthetic cannabinoid; originally a derivative of THC, now produced synthetically (e.g. by hydrogenation of CBD). Produced by the addition of hydrogen molecules.
Psychoactive properties	It is believed to have no or only mild psychoactive effects similar to HHC. There are no data to confirm this.	Yes
Effects	The effects are likely to mirror those of CBG, but are likely to be more intense.	Euphoria, promoting relaxation, improving sleep and more energy
Legality	In most countries, the permitted substance	Already banned in most countries

What is CBG9's product offering, safety and legality?

CBG9's popularity is skyrocketing, so it's no wonder that cannabis e-shops and stores are stocking up on CBG9 products.

Available CBG9 products

At the moment, the following products can be purchased:

• CBG9 vape pens: for immediate use, can be purchased either as disposable or refillable devices with liquid or replaceable cartridges
• Cartridge: pre-filled cartridges with CBG9 distillate
• Liquids: liquids intended for vaporisation
• CBG9 flowers: sticks of technical cannabis infused with CBG9 distillate
• Pre-rolls: pre-packaged joint containing CBG9 flowers
• Dabs: concentrated forms of cannabis, such as hash, which are vaped through a vaporizer or dab rig.
• Edibles: for example, snacks and gummy candies infused with CBG9 spirit
• Oils: CBG9 "extract" mixed with carrier oil

 

Safety and legality

Unfortunately, we do not yet have enough clinical trials to say that CBG9 is risk-free. Every substance has a natural risk of side effects, that is simply a fact.

It should be added that hemp products are not yet regulated in any way, which increases the risk of products contaminated with undesirable and possibly harmful substances entering the market.

That's why it's always best to buy from trusted companies that have their products tested by independent laboratories. Some vendors post a "Certificate of Analysis" (COA) for each product, if one is not available, don't be shy about asking for one.

In terms of legality, if we take into account the amount of THC contained, it can be argued that CBG9 is legal as most commercially available products contain less than 0,2-0,3 % THC.

At the moment CBG9 is a legal high in most European countries, although it is a little more complicated than that and could be said to be in a legal grey area in most parts of Europe for the time being.

Conclusion

CBG9 is a derivative of CBG. Experience with other minor cannabinoids suggests that commercial products are made (semi)synthetically from more readily available precursors, usually CBD.

CBG9 may not have psychoactive effects on some individuals, but may produce mild psychoactive effects similar to HHC in some users.

Although there is a lack of research on CBG9, its popularity is still rising and the most common CBG9 vapes and cartridges, liquids, flowers, pre-rolls, oils, hash and edibles are appearing on the market.

Approach similar products with respect and consideration. Never get behind the wheel or operate any machinery after taking CBG9.

 

Author: HotHouse Cucumber

 

   

Photo: ChatGPT

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