CBGA’s Efficient Metabolism and Bioavailability

What’s so special about the metabolism and bioavailability of CBGA that makes it more efficient than other cannabinoids in several use cases?

Naturally grown, hemp-derived CBGA is quickly becoming a favorite for many with customers often preferring it over CBD for certain applications.

CBGA’s unique enzymatic conversion into key cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC during metabolism demonstrates its potential for highly optimized applications. Its bioavailability varies greatly with the consumption method – sublingual and inhalation provide higher absorption compared to oral routes.

Let’s understand how CBGA's metabolism and bioavailability appreciates its potential and the pharmacokinetics of many hemp-derived compounds.

What is CBGA?

Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA) – or what many like to call the ‘sweet mother of all that is good and pure’, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, and it’s the origin of most commercially available cannabinoids.

In the plant's lifecycle, it is what decides the chemical complexity and concentrations. CBGA is the brick for building tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA) through enzymatic reactions.

These acid derivatives later form some of the most widely recognized compounds with physiological effects.

CBGA users and different research also indicate the pathways through which it balances mood, appetite, and immune responses. It would even perform better than CBD when used for pain, depression and brain health.

Several studies point it as a viable cannabinoid for addressing metabolic disorders, neuroinflammation, and even specific cardiovascular issues.

The Metabolism of CBGA

CBGA comes by condensing olivetolic acid and geranyl pyrophosphate. Metabolism breaks down substances to make them usable or disposable by the body.

CBGA undergoes many enzymatic transformations in the liver. It eventually dictates how effectively CBGA is absorbed and distributed throughout the system.

How CBGA is Metabolized

CBGA undergoes enzymic activity facilitated by liver-based cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2J2, once it’s inside the body. Enzymes modify CBGA into metabolites such as 6′,7′-epoxy-CBG and cyclo-CBG.

Interestingly, studies show that cyclo-CBG is produced at significantly higher levels compared to its counterpart, and that makes it metabolically dominant

In plants, CBGA’s enzymatic pathways convert it into several cannabinoid acids, which are generally precursors.

Several variables shape how CBGA is processed:

• Genetics: Variations in individual genetic makeup can alter the efficiency of enzymes responsible for CBGA metabolism.
• Lifestyle Choices: Factors like diet, physical activity, and health significantly influence metabolic rates.
• Co-consumption of Substances: Concurrent intake of medications or other cannabinoids can either inhibit or enhance CBGA metabolism.

Bioavailability of CBGA

Simply stated, bioavailability measures how much of something your body would absorb when you take it.

CBGA isn’t easily soluble in water, and that slows down its absorption when you take it orally. Moreover, cannabinoids are subject to first-pass metabolism in the liver, further reducing their bioavailability.

For cannabinoids, this metric directly influences their effectiveness.

How CBGA’s Bioavailability Varies by Consumption Method

• Oral Intake: Consuming CBGA orally subjects it to quickly reach the liver, which decreases its bioavailability. It’s not efficiently absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Sublingual Administration: Placing CBGA under the tongue allows for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. It bypasses the digestive system entirely.
• Inhalation: Smoking/vaping CBGA delivers the compound directly to the lungs. You’ll see a rapid and highly effective absorption.
• Topical: It doesn’t make it significantly bioavailability on a systemic level.

Raw cannabinoid acids like CBDA and CBGA are absorbed by the body more easily than their decarboxylated forms.

Enhancing CBGA Absorption

Strategies to improve CBGA bioavailability include:

1. Nanoemulsion Technologies: Reducing CBGA particle size increases its solubility and absorption rates.
2. Lipid Carriers: You can combine CBGA with lipids to enhance its ability to traverse biological membranes and improve uptake.
3. Synergistic Combinations: Take CBGA alongside other cannabinoids to create an entourage effect.

Legality of CBGA in Minnesota

 

In Minnesota, cannabinoids like CBD and CBGA are regulated under stringent state guidelines. However, as a non-intoxicating compound, CBGA can be legally sold if products meet quality and labeling standards established by the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management.

Crested River offers federally compliant CBGA products that also meet Minnesota standards. For instance, our 1000 mg Full Spectrum CBGA Drops are fairly priced at $25. It’s grown, extracted, and manufactured within the state.

We also give you a Certificate of Analysis, which you should always get to ensure quality and transparency.

CBGA Products: Types and Market Availability

CBGA products are available and quite popular in Minnesota – you can find tinctures, pre-rolls, face creams, and CBGA isolates at local dispensaries and online platforms. Accessibility is there, and interest in CBGA continues to rise as consumers explore its potential.

Minnesota’s expanding cannabis market reflects this demand. Both established and emerging businesses are catering to an increasingly informed customer base.

• Tinctures and Oils: Ideal for sublingual administration. Provides precise dosage control.
• Capsules: Convenient for those seeking a standardized intake method.
• Edibles: Offers a palatable option. Particularly appealing to newer users.

Potential Uses and Benefits

Preliminary research highlights CBGA’s potential in several areas due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Its interactions with PPAR receptors suggest roles in metabolic health, while its neuroprotective effects indicate possible applications in managing neurological conditions.

Here’s a table highlighting its potential uses in comparison with its counterpart CBD.

Source: Crested River

 

 

The Future of CBGA Research

Global trends indicate that the hemp economy is here to stay, or even grow in the coming years. People and societies are opening up to its use, and the scientific community continues to explore CBGA’s metabolic pathways and applications.

Recent studies also emphasize its potential role in addressing chronic conditions, ranging from neurodegeneration to metabolic disorders.

With deadlier diseases and pandemics as the new norm, research is progressing, new discoveries about CBGA’s mechanisms and effects promise to broaden its applications. There are many more clinical trials underway, and the cannabinoid’s full potential is a compelling area of study for many.

Final Thoughts

CBGA offers unique pathways for applications, and the stigma associated with psychoactive cannabinoids is not there to stop its popularity.

As its availability grows, particularly in regions like Minnesota, consumers stand to benefit from its diverse uses. CBGA also presents an option worth exploring further for natural wellness solutions.

Disclaimer: “This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any cannabinoid product, including CBGA.”