Live Resin vs Distillate

Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or a newbie, you’ve likely heard of CBD—a popular non-psychoactive cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits. But what about CBG? As it gains more attention, it’s important to understand the differences between CBG vs CBD when choosing your cannabis products. In this guide, we’ll explore their unique characteristics and benefits, and how to decide which is right for you.

Introduction to Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are the compounds in the cannabis plant that interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. While THC is the most well-known for its psychoactive nature, non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and CBG also play vital roles. Though they won’t intoxicate you, both may offer therapeutic benefits.¹

What Is CBG, the Mother of Cannabinoids?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is often called “the mother cannabinoid” because it acts as a precursor to others like THC and CBD. Without CBG, many other cannabinoids wouldn’t exist.²

However, it’s less abundant in mature cannabis plants since most CBG is converted into other cannabinoids as the plant grows, making it harder to extract in large quantities. For example, CBG turns into CBDA (cannabidiol acid) and then into CBD, the active form.³ Chemically, CBG interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system. This is what gives CBG its distinct therapeutic potential.⁴

What Is CBD, the Popular Cannabinoid?

CBD (cannabidiol) has been studied extensively and is now a key player in wellness and medical circles. Found abundantly in both hemp and cannabis, CBD’s non-psychoactive nature makes it a popular choice for those seeking potential benefits without the high associated with THC.⁵ While CBD and THC share the same molecular structure, CBD has a hydroxyl group instead of a cyclic ring, preventing it from binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the same way, which keeps it non-intoxicating.⁶

Research into CBD began in the 20th century, and its popularity increased because of its potential to relieve anxiety and reduce seizures. Today, CBD is widely available in oils, capsules, edibles, and skin care products, thanks to its well-established market and legal status, making it much more accessible than CBG.⁷

Key Differences Between CBG and CBD

While CBD vs CBG share some similarities, they differ in their chemical structure and how they interact with the body.

Chemical Structure

One of the biggest differences between CBG and CBD is their molecular structure. CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, while CBD has a more indirect effect on the endocannabinoid system.⁸

Effects on the Endocannabinoid System

CBG interacts directly with cannabinoid receptors, potentially addressing conditions related to the nervous system, such as depression and anxiety. CBD, meanwhile, is praised for modulating the body’s response to stress and inflammation without binding directly to these receptors.¹⁰

Potential Therapeutic Benefits

CBD and CBG sound the same, but they have very different (potential) therapeutic benefits.

Potential Benefits of CBG

CBG has shown promise in addressing a range of health issues, including:

• Nervous system support: CBG may help relieve anxiety and depression.¹¹
  
  
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Research suggests that CBG may reduce inflammation.¹²
  
  
• Cancer treatment potential: Early studies have explored the cannabinoid’s role in decreasing cancer cell growth.¹³
  
  
• Antibacterial properties: CBG may be effective against bacterial infections.¹⁴
  
  

Known Benefits of CBD

CBD is widely recognized and has a well-documented track record, offering potential benefits that may include:

• Anxiety and stress relief: CBD is widely used to help manage stress and anxiety. 
  
  
• Pain management: The cannabinoid is popular for addressing chronic pain. 
  
  
• Epilepsy treatment: CBD is a well-known treatment for seizure disorders. 
  
  
• Inflammation reduction: Like CBG, CBD is also praised for its anti-inflammatory effects.¹⁵ 

Consumption Methods

CBD and CBG can be consumed in various ways. CBG is often found in oils, isolates, or full-spectrum products that combine multiple cannabinoids for a more holistic effect.16 CBD is available in isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum oils, edibles, topicals, and more.17 Proper dosing is important for both cannabinoids to ensure you use them safely and effectively. If you are unsure about the dosing, consult with your favorite budtender.

Combining CBG and CBD

There’s a growing interest in the potential synergistic effects of CBG and CBD when they are used together. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products, which may contain both cannabinoids and others, can benefit you because they activate the entourage effect—the idea that cannabinoids work better together than on their own.18 When considering CBD vs CBG products, look for full-spectrum options that include a range of cannabinoids for a more comprehensive experience.

FAQs About CBG

Curious about CBG and CBD and how one cannabinoid stacks up against the other? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you better understand CBG and CBD. Or ask your budtender the next time you visit a LivWell dispensary. 

What’s the main difference between CBG and CBD?
The main difference between CBG and CBD is that CBG interacts more directly with the cannabinoid receptors in your body, while CBD has a more indirect effect. 

Can I take CBG and CBD together?
You can consume CBG and CBD separately or together. When combined, they trigger the entourage effect, meaning you experience enhanced effects compared to using an individual cannabinoid. 

Which is better for sleep: CBG or CBD?
CBD and CBG may help you sleep better, but these two cannabinoids work in different ways. CBG is potentially more suited for addressing some underlying issues, like anxiety or pain, that are keeping you awake, while CBD helps promote relaxation and sleep.

How do I choose between CBG and CBD products for my needs?
It depends on your needs. It’s best to ask a budtender at your favorite dispensary for personalized recommendations and then decide whether CBD, CBG, or full-spectrum products are the best for you.

Are CBG and CBD psychoactive like THC? 
CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, so they don’t cause intoxicating effects. 

Choosing Between CBG and CBD

While CBD has long been a popular choice, CBG is quickly becoming a promising option for those seeking additional benefits. Both cannabinoids have their strengths, from CBD’s well-documented effects on anxiety and pain relief to CBG’s potential in neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory treatments. As more research continues to shed light on these cannabinoids, experimenting with different cannabis products could help you experience the best of both worlds. Be sure to ask your budtender for advice when you shop cannabis products and choose between CBG and CBD. 

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Sources:

1. “Is CBG the Next CBD? Here’s What You Should Know,” Real Simple, December 30, 2022, https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/cbd-versus-cbg

2. “What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)? Benefits, Uses, Dosages,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-cbg-cannabigerol-medicinal-benefits-use

3. “Pharmacological Aspects and Biological Effects of Cannabigerol and Its Synthetic Derivatives,” National Library of Medicine, November 8, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9666035/

4. “Cannabigerol: a biometric overview and review of research on an important phytocannabinoid,” Springer Link, January 24, 2022, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-021-09794-w

5. “What are the benefits of CBD - and is it safe to use?” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700

6. “Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Action of Cannabidiol,” National Library of Medicine, August 9, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10458707/

7. “ Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t,” Harvard Health Publishing, April 4, 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476

8. “Cannabinoids in the landscape of cancer,” ResearchGate, September 2021, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353259624_Cannabinoids_in_the_landscape_of_cancer

9. “Cannabigerol Action at Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptors and at CB1–CB2 Heteroreceptor Complexes,” National Library of Medicine, June 21, 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6021502/

10. “What is the endocannabinoid system and how does cannabis affect it?” GoodRx, October 24, 2023, https://www.goodrx.com/classes/cannabinoids/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system

11. “Is CBG the Next CBD?” Psychology Today, August 1, 2024, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/balanced/202408/is-cbg-the-next-cbd

12. “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cannabigerol in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Cultures Are Partly Mediated by TRPA1,” MDPI, January 3, 2023, https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/1/855

13. “Cannabigerol Is a Potential Therapeutic Agent in a Novel Combined Therapy for Glioblastoma,” National Library of Medicine, February 5, 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7914500/#:~:text=CBG%20was%20reported%20to%20reduce,reviewed%20by%20Ligresti%20et%20al

14. “Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study,” National Library of Medicine, August 6, 2008, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681481/

15. “Therapeutic benefits of CBD,” MedicalNewsToday, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cgb-vs-cbd#cbd-benefits

16. “What is CBG (cannabigerol) & what does this cannabinoid do?” Leafly, September 14, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-cbg-cannabinoid

17. “Meet CBG, the New Cannabinoid on the Block,” Healthline, February 28, 2020, https://www.healthline.com/health/cbg-oil#choosing-a-product

18. “Could the Combination of Two Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Counteract Neuroinflammation? Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Associated with Cannabigerol,” National Library of Medicine, November 18, 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6915685/

Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.  State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.

Our budtenders get this question all the time: how long does it take for edibles to kick in? For most people, edibles can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to start working. Unlike smoking, where the effects are almost immediate, edibles take longer because the THC has to be digested and processed by your body.

If you’re new to consuming cannabis edibles, this delay can sometimes be confusing or frustrating. However, understanding how edibles work can help you manage your expectations and get the most out of the experience. In this guide, you’ll learn all about edibles, how they work, what’s the onset time, and more.

How Do Edibles Work?

The way cannabis edibles work is quite different from smoking. When you consume an edible, it passes through the gastrointestinal tract and is absorbed into the bloodstream. From there, it travels to the liver, where it’s metabolized into 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinol (11-hydroxy-THC or 11-OH-THC), which interacts with the endocannabinoid system and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. This form of THC is not only more potent but also appears in higher concentrations in the bloodstream compared to smoking, which explains why edibles can feel stronger and last longer.¹

When you smoke or vape cannabis, it enters the lungs and is absorbed directly into your bloodstream, leading to near-immediate effects. This difference in how the body processes edibles vs smoking explains why edibles take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping cannabis.²

Why Do Edibles Take Longer to Feel Than Smoking?

The delay in feeling the effects of edibles compared to smoking cannabis comes down to the digestion process. When you smoke or vape THC products, it quickly enters your bloodstream through the lungs, leading to almost immediate effects. On the other hand, edibles require THC to pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver, resulting in a slower onset.³ This is why some people feel the effects of edibles 30 to 90 minutes after consumption.⁴ So it’s important to be patient, especially if you’re new to edibles, as it’s easy to take too much if the effects haven’t kicked in right away.

How Long Does It Take for Edibles to Work?

In general, edibles take between 30 to 90 minutes to work, but several factors can influence how quickly you feel the effects. The maximum effect usually hits around two to three hours after consumption, and the overall duration of the high can last several hours.⁵ Your experience depends on a variety of factors, including the dosage, your stomach contents, and your cannabis tolerance.⁶

Dosage

The dosage of an edible plays a significant role in how quickly it takes effect. A higher dose may kick in faster, but if you’re a beginner when it comes to consuming cannabis, it’s best to start with a microdose (2.5-5 milligrams or less) and work your way up. This helps you gauge how your body reacts without overdoing it and ensures you have a positive experience.⁷ 

Stomach Contents

What you’ve eaten before consuming edibles can also impact how quickly the cannabis takes effect.⁸ Eating a meal before having an edible can delay the onset, while high-fat foods can enhance the effects by helping your body absorb the THC more efficiently.⁹ If you’re aiming for a fast-acting experience, it’s best to avoid large meals right before your edible.

Tolerance

Your cannabis tolerance plays a role in how fast edibles kick in. Regular cannabis enthusiasts may have a higher tolerance, which can delay or reduce the intensity of the effects. This happens because the CB1 receptors in your brain become less sensitive to THC over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Your personal biology and metabolism also affect how quickly edibles work and how long they last.¹⁰

How Long Do the Effects of Edibles Last?

Once edibles kick in, the effects can last anywhere from 4-12 hours, which is much longer than the effects of smoking cannabis. This longer duration is one of the main reasons many people prefer edibles over smoking. The exact length of time the effect lasts depends on your dose and tolerance. If you take a higher dose, you can expect the effects to last longer. For those with lower tolerances, even a small amount of THC can result in long-lasting effects.¹¹

Tips for Taking Edibles for the First Time

If you’re new to edibles, it’s crucial to approach them with care and patience. Here are a few tips to ensure you have a positive experience:

Start Low

If it’s your first time trying edibles, start with a microdose of roughly 2.5-5 milligrams of THC until you know how your body reacts. Low-dose edibles like mints or drops are a great starting point. The effects can take time to set in, but starting low helps prevent you from having an overwhelming experience.¹²

Be Patient

Edibles can take up to 90 minutes to start working. So resist the urge to take more if you don’t feel the effects right away. Patience is key to consuming edibles safely, especially for cannabis newbies.¹³

Pick the Right Setting

When consuming edibles for the first time, make sure you’re in a comfortable, familiar environment. The right setting can help ease any anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable.

FAQs About Edibles

Trying cannabis edibles for the first time or need a refresher on how they work? We’ve got you covered! Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about edibles:

Can I eat raw marijuana?
While you can eat raw marijuana, it won’t produce any psychoactive effects unless it’s been decarboxylated (heated) to activate the THC.

How long do tinctures take to work?
Tinctures typically work faster than edibles if you consume them sublingually (place the drops under your tongue) as they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. You may feel the effects in 15-30 minutes, compared to 30-90 minutes for edibles.

Does it take two hours to feel edibles?
It can take up to 90 minutes for edibles to kick in, but the exact time depends on various factors like dosage and your metabolism. So wait at least 90 minutes before you take more.

Choosing Edibles for You

When it comes to choosing edibles, the key is to find products that match your preferences and tolerance level. Whether you prefer fast-acting edibles, low-dose products, or specific flavors, there’s something out there for every cannabis enthusiast. Remember to start low, be patient, and enjoy the experience. And chat with your favorite LivWell budtender if you have any edible questions. 

Find a Dispensary

Sources:

1. “Tasty THC: Promises and Challenges of Cannabis Edibles,” National Library of Medicine, January 24, 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5260817/

2. “Edibles 101: How to consume edibles, benefits, effects, & more,” Leafly, February 4, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles

3. “How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects of Cannabis?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-high

4. “Why Do Edibles Give You A Different High Than Smoking?” Vice, February 9, 2018, https://www.vice.com/en/article/edible-high-vs-smoke-high/

5. “Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids,” National Library of Medicine, 2003, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12648025/

6. “How Long Do Edibles Take to Kick In?” Healthline, February 7, 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-do-edibles-take-to-kick-in#onset-time

7. “How long do edibles take to kick in?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/how-long-do-edibles-take-to-kick-in

8. “How Food Intake Impacts Cannabis Consumption and Effects,” Veriheal, November 24, 2020, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/how-food-intake-impacts-cannabis-consumption-and-effects/

9. “Human Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Orally Administered Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Capsules Are Altered by Fed Versus Fasted Conditions and Sex Differences,” National Library of Medicine, December 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6922062/

10. “THC tolerance: what is it and why does it happen?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/cannabis-and-your-body/thc-tolerance

11. “How long will a weed high last?” Leafly, September 23, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/how-long-will-a-weed-high-last

12. “Edible dosing for beginners: with dosage chart by milligrams,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/edible-dosing

13. “What are cannabis edibles and how do you consume them?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/edibles

Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.  State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.

If you have ever taken a look at the label on the back of your cannabis products, you may have seen an unfamiliar acronym: TAC. TAC stands for ‘total active cannabinoids,’ and it refers to the combined percentage of all active cannabinoids present within that product. TAC accounts for cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and more, which can understandably lead to acronym overload!

In this article, we’ll break down TAC vs THC, the differences, and examine why the total active cannabinoids matter.

Total Active Cannabinoids (TAC): Everything You Need to Know

TAC–or total active cannabinoids–is a number you’ll often find on a cannabis product label that indicates the total number of active cannabinoids present in the product. The term “active” refers to the cannabinoids in the product that have already undergone decarboxylation, or exposure to heat or light. This is important because it determines the potency and overall effect of the cannabis products you consume.¹

Still confused? Here’s even more detail about TAC.

What is a Cannabinoid?

Cannabinoids, technically called phytocannabinoids since they are plant derived, are the chemical compounds in cannabis that give it its unique effects. This includes THC, CBD, and more than 150 others! These compounds interact with your endocannabinoid system, a biological system in your body that regulates various physiological processes, including mood, memory, and pain perception.²

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol–i.e. THC–is the most well-known cannabinoid, recognized for its psychoactive effects. It binds to the body’s endocannabinoid receptors to produce the “high” associated with consuming cannabis. THC content is heavily regulated, with various laws determining the allowable limits in cannabis products and where it’s sold.³

What Cannabinoids Are Included In TAC?

TAC includes a variety of cannabinoids, each with its own properties and effects, that contribute to the overall experience of cannabis products.⁴ While there are hundreds that we know of, the most widely known include THC, CBD, cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabinol (CBN), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).

How Does TAC Measure Cannabis Potency?

TAC is a comprehensive measure of cannabis potency. By accounting for all the active cannabinoids, TAC provides a more accurate presentation of a product’s strength compared to focusing solely on THC. This can be particularly useful for consumers looking to understand the full potential effects of a product.⁵

Differences Between TAC and THC

Imagine that TAC is the whole symphony, while THC represents only one musician and their instrument. All the instruments playing together, or even in groups, produce different results than the solo musician.

TAC encompasses all active (decarboxylated) cannabinoids in a cannabis product, which provides a broader measure of its potency. In contrast, THC is only one cannabinoid and isn’t an accurate measure of a product’s strength–unless it’s a THC-only product and not a broad-spectrum one.⁶

Two products with the same THC percentage won’t yield the same effects because the other cannabinoids also contribute to the product’s potency and effects. It’s essential to look at a product’s TAC because it gives you a comprehensive understanding of what you consume.

Impact of TAC on the Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is the synergy or combined interaction between compounds, including cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes. TAC plays a significant role in this effect by providing a holistic look at the active cannabinoids, which can boost the overall experience and therapeutic benefits of cannabis products. Considering TAC when choosing products can help you manage and achieve the desired effects more effectively. 

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s always best to ask your budtender if you have questions about a product’s potency and its potential effects. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about TAC and THC.

How are TAC and THC related?
TAC includes THC as part of its total measurement. While THC is a single cannabinoid, TAC represents the sum of all the active cannabinoids in a marijuana product.

What is the entourage effect, and how does TAC influence it?
The entourage effect is the combined effect of different cannabis compounds working together. TAC influences this by measuring how the active cannabinoids contribute to the overall impact. 

In what parts of the cannabis plant are TAC and THC found?
Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, are primarily found in the plant’s trichomes, which are small, crystal-like structures on the surface of cannabis flower and leaves. TAC measures all the active cannabinoids that are produced in the trichomes.⁷

Are some cannabis strains higher in TAC or THC?
Strains vary widely in their cannabinoid profiles. Some may have a higher THC content, while others may have a broader spectrum of cannabinoids that contribute to a higher TAC. The non-THC cannabinoid content is often less than the overall THC levels, but when you add all the compounds, they may comprise a high percentage of a product’s TAC profile. 

Understanding THC vs TAC

Understanding THC vs TAC is essential for making informed choices about the cannabis products you want to consume. Consider both to appreciate the full range of effects and benefits that cannabis may offer. Always check the cannabis product label for the THC and TAC percentages, and if you’re unsure, ask your favorite budtender for help.

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Sources

1. “What Are Total Active Cannabinoids (TAC) in Cannabis?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-are-total-active-cannabinoids-tac-in-weed

2. “Cannabinoids,” National Library of Medicine, February 23, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556062/

3. “What is THC?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-thc-tetrahydrocannabinol

4. “What Exactly Is the Entourage Effect?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/entourage-effect

5. “TAC vs THC,” Marijuana Packaging, September 11, 2023, https://marijuanapackaging.com/blogs/resources/tac-vs-thc

6. “Everything You Need to Know About THC Vs. TAC,” Veriheal, July 27, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-thc-vs-tac/

7. “What are trichomes?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/trichome

Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.  State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.