One of the many applications of CBG that we may see more of in the future is treating addictions to various drugs. And one of the addictions that CBG may be able to help with is cannabis itself. It may sound ironical that CBG, a cannabinoid, may help with addiction to cannabis but it is true and the possibility has already been scientifically proven. Read on to learn more.
How prevalent is the addiction to Cannabis?
It is estimated that 10% of all cannabis users are addicted to the drug. In medical terms this is referred to as cannabis use disorder. Another 17% or so of the people who use cannabis experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using it. So in all, almost 30% of all cannabis users have some sort of use disorder. It is estimated that in 2020 about 5million people in the US alone are addicted to cannabis. Signs of addiction include withdrawal symptoms, not being able to stop using, using more and more over time, choosing a lifestyle that favors cannabis use, and depending on cannabis to relax or to have a good time.
What is THC?
When talking about cannabis it is important to talk about THC as well. THC stands for tetrahydracannabinol. This is the addictive compound in cannabis. It is also the compound responsible for getting you high. Other cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG do not contain THC and therefore cannot get you high.
How does CBG help with cannabis addiction?
- By evening out the effects of THC in cannabis: It has been observed that CBG, just like CBD, has the potential to neutralize the psychoactive effects of THC found in cannabis. This means that CBG could help undo the high that one may be under after consuming cannabis. This is apparently made possible by CBG activating the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and thereby blocking off the psychoactive effects of the THC from kicking in.
- By providing a non-THC option for cannabis medication: Millions of people in the US and across the world rely on cannabis to treat or remedy a growing number of ailments. Such ailments include anxiety, pain, sleep, appetite, inflammation, cancer, glaucoma, etc. And cannabis has been found to have effects that help with all the conditions.
However, CBG which contains no THC, can provide a way for people to enjoy all the healing effects that cannabis offers without getting addicted.
What solutions are there for curbing cannabis addiction at the moment?
As Addictions & Recovery states, every day people sign up for 12-step rehab programs with the goal of kicking a cannabis addiction. This can be said to the main way out for cannabis addicts.
Do you or someone you know have an addiction problem with cannabis? Would you try to use CBG as a way to counterbalance the effects of THC, especially if you’re taking cannabis for medical reasons?