The world of cannabis is complicated. There are many compounds and extracts to choose from, and two of the most talked about are CBD and CBG. They are often sold separately, and some sellers claim that mixing them gives “far greater results” through the “entourage effect.” In this article, learn what CBD and CBG are, what the entourage effect means, and what is not proven.
What Are CBD and CBG?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD is not intoxicating like THC. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), cannabinoids are a group of substances found in the cannabis plant. The main cannabinoids are THC and cannabidiol (CBD). Besides THC and CBD, more than 100 other cannabinoids have been identified. Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of these minor cannabinoids, present in much smaller amounts. CBD is marketed as an ingredient in many consumer products, including supplements, foods, oils, and lotions. These products are not medicines. Their quality varies. Products have been found to contain different amounts of CBD than their labels show, and some products marketed as CBD have been found to contain THC.
The Entourage Effect: A Hypothesis, Not Proof
According to Harvard Health Publishing, the entourage effect is the idea that taking several cannabinoids together works better than taking one alone. It is a hypothesis, not a proven fact. The evidence is limited. According to the NCCIH, research on cannabis or cannabinoids for most conditions is in its early stages. Some evidence suggests modest benefits of cannabis or cannabinoids for chronic pain and multiple sclerosis symptoms. A person should not believe claims that combining CBD and CBG gives “far greater results.” That claim is not proven.
What Is Not Proven
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), only one CBD product has been approved as a medicine: Epidiolex, which is used for certain rare forms of epilepsy. The FDA has not approved cannabis for the treatment of any disease or condition, and there are no other FDA-approved drug products that contain CBD. The FDA has not approved CBD or CBG for pain, depression, cancer, seizures, or bacterial infections. Claims that CBD and CBG fight cancer, prevent bacterial infection, treat seizures, and reduce depression are not proven. No cannabinoid product can prevent cancer or cure depression. A person with pain, depression, seizures, or an infection should see a doctor.
Side Effects and Interactions
According to the FDA, CBD can cause liver injury. It can also affect how other drugs you are taking work, potentially causing serious side effects. CBD can cause drowsiness, decreased appetite, and changes in mood. According to Harvard Health, CBD can increase the level of blood thinning. People who take blood thinners or other prescription medicines should talk to a doctor before they use CBD or CBG. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should talk to a doctor before using these products. A product that has not been studied in people carries unknown risks.
How to Make a Safe Choice
First, talk to a doctor before you try CBD or CBG, especially if you take other medicines. Second, buy from a seller that shares lab test results from an independent lab. A lab report should show the amount of CBD, CBG, and THC in the product. Third, do not use CBD or CBG as a replacement for medical care. According to the NHS, CBD oil and hemp oil are available to buy legally as food supplements from health stores, but there is no guarantee these are of good quality or provide any health benefits. If a health problem continues, see a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are CBD and CBG?
According to NIDA, CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant. It is not intoxicating like THC. CBG is a minor cannabinoid. According to the NCCIH, the main cannabinoids are THC and CBD, and more than 100 other cannabinoids have been identified.
What is the entourage effect?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, the entourage effect is the idea that taking several cannabinoids together works better than taking one alone. It is a hypothesis, not a proven fact. The evidence is limited.
Do CBD and CBG treat cancer, depression, or pain?
No. According to the FDA, only one CBD product has been approved as a medicine: Epidiolex, for certain rare forms of epilepsy. The FDA has not approved CBD or CBG for pain, depression, cancer, seizures, or infections.
What are the side effects of CBD?
According to the FDA, CBD can cause liver injury, drowsiness, decreased appetite, and changes in mood. It can also affect how other medicines work.
Should I talk to a doctor before I use CBD or CBG?
Yes. According to the NHS, CBD and THC can affect how other medicines work, so always discuss possible interactions with a specialist. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should talk to a doctor before they use CBD or CBG.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. It is not medical advice and it does not replace care from a doctor. This guide gives no medical advice for readers. Talk to a doctor before you use CBD or CBG, especially if you take other medicines.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026