While many people research cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) separately, these cannabinoids are often used together because they may complement one another through what’s known as the entourage effect.
Some people find that taking CBG alongside CBD helps balance out the drowsiness that can come with higher doses of CBD, making it easier to stay relaxed but alert during the day.
Together, they may support focus, physical comfort, mood, and overall wellness, although research is still developing.
Here’s what current research says about using CBD and CBG together, including how they work in the body, their potential benefits, and what to know before trying them.
How CBD and CBG Work Together
CBD and CBG both interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network that helps regulate functions such as mood, sleep, discomfort, inflammation, and immune response. By supporting the ECS, both cannabinoids may help promote overall balance, although they do so in different ways.
CBD doesn’t strongly bind to the body’s primary cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). Instead, it influences how your ECS functions by interacting with multiple receptor systems and helping support the body’s naturally produced endocannabinoids.
CBG, on the other hand, interacts more directly with CB1 and CB2 receptors, although not in the same way as THC. Researchers believe these different mechanisms may help explain why many people choose to use CBD and CBG together.
This complementary relationship is often referred to as the entourage effect: the theory that cannabinoids and other compounds found in cannabis may work better together than in isolation. While more human research is needed, early findings suggest CBD and CBG may complement one another by supporting a combination of relaxation, physical comfort, and mental clarity.
Benefits of Taking CBD and CBG Together
CBD and CBG are commonly used together because they each interact with the body differently.. Here’s what current research says about their potential benefits.
Stress
CBD is commonly used to promote relaxation, while CBG is often associated with mental clarity and focus. When taken together, many people describe the combination as calming without feeling overly tiring.
While research on CBD and CBG together is still limited, studies on each cannabinoid have shown promising results. In a 1993 study, participants who took CBD before a simulated public speaking test reported lower anxiety levels than those who received a placebo [1].
More recently, a 2024 clinical trial found that a single 20 mg dose of CBG significantly reduced self-reported anxiety and stress compared to a placebo without causing intoxication or cognitive impairment [2].
Pain
Many people use CBD and CBG together to help manage everyday pain and discomfort. Because the two cannabinoids work differently in the body, researchers are continuing to study how they may complement one another.
Topicals such as CBD skin cream may be a good option for targeting specific areas of discomfort, while oils, gummies, and capsules work throughout the body.
A 2021 study found that CBG demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, although more human research is still needed [3]. In another study, 59% of CBD users reported improvements in pain, while 67.6% said they were able to reduce their use of pain medications after using CBD [4].
Focus
Many people prefer taking CBD and CBG together during the day because the combination may promote a sense of calm without feeling overly relaxed.
Some people also find that CBG helps balance the more calming effects they experience with higher doses of CBD, making the combination a popular choice for daytime use.
In a 2021 survey of people using CBD:CBG products for ADHD, 70.8% of respondents reported improvements in their energy, attention, and thinking [5].
Sleep
CBD is commonly used to help people relax before bed. While CBG is often considered better suited for daytime use, we’ve also heard from people who enjoy combining the two in the evening when they’re trying to unwind after a long day.
If stress or physical discomfort makes it difficult to unwind, this combination may help you feel more relaxed before bed.
A 2017 research review found that CBD has therapeutic potential for insomnia [6]. While some sleep products pair CBD with melatonin or CBN, others prefer CBD and CBG as part of their nighttime routine. The right combination depends on the effects you’re looking for and how your body responds.
Side Effects of CBD and CBG Together
CBD and CBG are generally well tolerated, and taking them together is associated with many of the same potential side effects as taking either cannabinoid on its own. Most side effects are mild and are more likely to occur with higher doses.
Potential side effects of CBD include:
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
Potential side effects of CBG include:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Increased appetite
- Dry eyes
- Digestive upset (such as nausea or diarrhea)
- Dizziness
- Headache
If you’re new to CBD or CBG, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. If you take prescription medications, talk with your healthcare provider before adding cannabinoids to your routine.
How to Take CBD and CBG Together
CBD and CBG come in several forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals. The best option depends on your preferences, how quickly you want the effects to begin, and whether you’re looking for whole-body or targeted support.
Oils
CBD and CBG oils, also called tinctures, combine cannabinoid extracts with a carrier oil such as MCT or coconut oil. They are easy to measure, and you can adjust the serving drop by drop.
Oils may begin working sooner than gummies or capsules when held under the tongue, but their earthy hemp flavor is not for everyone.
One thing we’ve noticed is that first-time users often prefer oils because they’re easy to adjust serving by serving, while gummies tend to become a favorite once people settle into a routine.
Gummies
CBD and CBG gummies contain a premeasured amount in each piece, making them easy to add to a daily routine. They are also a good option if you dislike the taste of hemp oil.
Because gummies must pass through the digestive system, they generally take longer to begin working than tinctures.
Learn More: Best CBG Gummies
Capsules
CBD and CBG capsules and softgels offer another convenient, tasteless option. Like gummies, they provide a consistent amount in each serving and are easy to take as part of an existing supplement routine.
The downside is that capsules take time to digest and cannot usually be divided if you want a smaller serving.
Topicals
CBD and CBG topicals, including creams, salves, and roll-ons, are applied directly to the skin. They may be a good choice when you want to target one specific area rather than take cannabinoids orally.
Because topicals are used differently from oils, gummies, and capsules, their effects are generally limited to the area where they are applied.abinoids and terpenes make this combination even more beneficial – an extension of the entourage effect.
Conclusion: Should You Take CBD and CBG Together?
If you’re already using CBD or are curious about trying CBG, combining the two may be worth considering. Because they interact with the body differently, many people find the combination offers a more balanced experience than either cannabinoid on its own.
While research on CBD and CBG together is still evolving, early studies and user experiences are encouraging. Whether you’re looking to support stress, discomfort, focus, or sleep, the right product ultimately comes down to your goals and how your body responds.
Ready to try CBD and CBG together?
Whether you’re looking for an easy-to-dose oil, convenient gummies, or a targeted topical, Natural Ways CBD carries a variety of third-party tested options to fit your needs.
CBD and CBG Together: Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about taking CBD and CBG together.
Can You Take CBD and CBG at the Same Time?
Yes. CBD and CBG can generally be taken together, and many people prefer using both because they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways. While researchers are still learning more about this combination, early studies suggest the two cannabinoids may complement one another through the entourage effect.
What Are the Benefits of Taking CBD and CBG Together?
Many people find that combining CBD and CBG offers a more balanced experience than using either cannabinoid on its own. CBD is commonly associated with relaxation, while CBG is often described as promoting mental clarity and focus. Together, they may complement one another through the entourage effect, although more human research is still needed.
How Many mg of CBD and CBG Should I Take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all serving size. One of the biggest mistakes we see is starting with too much. Beginning with a low serving and increasing gradually usually leads to a better experience. Following the serving suggestions on the product label is a good place to begin.
How Long Do CBD and CBG Take to Work?
How quickly you feel the effects depends on the product you choose. Oils taken under the tongue may begin working within 15 to 30 minutes, while gummies and capsules typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours because they must pass through the digestive system. Topicals are designed to target a specific area rather than provide whole-body effects.
Is CBG Stimulating or Relaxing?
Most people describe CBG as more uplifting than relaxing. While CBD is often associated with calming effects, CBG is commonly used during the day because it may help promote focus and mental clarity. That said, everyone’s experience can be different.
Can I Take CBD and CBG Every Day?
Yes. Many people take CBD and CBG every day as part of their wellness routine. If you decide to use them regularly, start with a low serving and adjust gradually based on how your body responds.
Can CBD and CBG Interact with Medications?
Yes. CBD, and potentially CBG, may interact with certain medications because they can affect how the liver processes some drugs. If you take prescription medications or have an underlying medical condition, talk with your healthcare provider before adding CBD or CBG to your routine.
Sources
1. Zuardi, A W et al. “Effects of ipsapirone and cannabidiol on human experimental anxiety.” Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) vol. 7,1 Suppl (1993): 82-8. doi:10.1177/026988119300700112
2. Cuttler, Carrie et al. “The acute effects of cannabigerol (CBG) on anxiety, stress, and mood: A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Scientific Reports. 2024. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-66879-0
3. Robaina Cabrera, C. L., Keir-Rudman, S., Horniman, N., Clarkson, N., & Page, C. (2021). The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabidiol and cannabigerol alone, and in combination. Pulmonary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 69, 102047. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pupt.2021.102047
4. Schilling, Jan M et al. “Cannabidiol as a Treatment for Chronic Pain: A Survey of Patients’ Perspectives and Attitudes.” Journal of pain research vol. 14 1241-1250. 5 May. 2021, doi:10.2147/JPR.S278718
5. Kaufmann, Robert. (2021). Nano-processed CBG/CBD effect on pain, adult attention deficit hyperactive disorder, irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome. International Journal of Complementary & Alternative Medicine. 14. 235-240. 10.15406/ijcam.2021.14.00567.
6. Babson, Kimberly A et al. “Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature.” Current psychiatry reports vol. 19,4 (2017): 23. doi:10.1007/s11920-017-0775-9
