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CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) plays a crucial role in cannabis plants by performing a protective function. It is produced in the plant’s trichomes and triggers targeted necrosis in plant cells, leading to natural leaf pruning. This process enables the plant to allocate its energy primarily towards flower production.
The precursor molecule to all Cannabis plants, CBGA is considered a foundational compound as many other cannabinoids wouldn’t exist without it. It’s often referred to as the “Granddaddy” or “Mother” of cannabinoids. It acts as the precursor to three major cannabinoid lines: THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), and CBCA (cannabichromenic acid). Due to this massive responsibility, the cannabinoid known for Endocannabinoid Balance Control is also the parent, grandparent, and great-grandparent to just about all the Cannabinoids you’ve heard of.

The acidic compounds that CBGa makes eventually convert through enzymatic processes into THC, CBD, or CBC, respectively. While CBGA can also convert into CBG, in most Cannabis Cultivars, it tends to transform into THC or CBD. CBGa, in its concentrated form, is currently considered one of the most versatile cannabinoids by investigative researchers who have discovered how to harness its powers.
CBGA’s discovery dates back over 50 years, with Israeli researchers being the first to isolate CBG. Japanese researchers later revealed that CBGA serves as the precursor to CBG. Despite its long history, research on CBGA remains limited, with much of it focused on the sustainable production of THCA for pharmaceutical and research purposes.

Preliminary studies provide some insights into the potential medical benefits of CBGA. For instance, CBGA has shown promise in research studies inhibiting aldose reductase, an enzyme associated with oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease. This research suggests a potential application for CBGA in managing complications related to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The promising future of this cannabinoid is incredible; it’s likely to be one of the next pharmaceuticals we see developed from CBGA due to the intensive research conclusions.
In silico studies have also suggested that CBGA may play a role in activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which regulate metabolism. Dysfunctional PPARs are associated with metabolic disorders such as diabetes and dyslipidemia, making these preliminary findings necessary to further the future of cannabinoid medicines in pharmacies – something many of us would love to see again. Most are aware that before prohibition, the shelves of Drug Stores were always stocked well and loaded with THC extracts, and for quite some time, it was a leading choice of doctors.

CBGA has also demonstrated significant potential in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Research indicates that CBGA extracted from cannabis exhibited promising cytotoxic effects on colon cancer cells, leading to cell death and arresting the cancer cell cycle. These findings are preliminary, but they suggest that CBGA could be a valuable component in targeting colorectal cancer cells and potentially preventing the growth of polyps, which can develop into carcinomas if left untreated.
While none of these findings are medical claims, they suggest that the Mother Major Cannabinoid has powers far beyond what many, or any, thought it did. Before its discovery as the precursor molecule to CBG, and then THCa, CBCa, and CBDa, science paid very little attention to CBGa. Even after such an intensive finding, the cannabinoids of choice for the industry remained to be THC and CBD, with THC always leading the way as the most effective and potent.
It’s essential to note that further research is needed on the consumption of CBGA in various aspects. However, its emergence into the marketplace has given it some popularity, particularly after an Oregon State University study reported that it had value within the Petri Dish in stopping the replication of the COVID-19 virus in human cells.
This single study, on its own, sparked a surge of hype, driving the cost of CBGa up and making it less accessible, with many making exaggerated medical claims about cannabinoids that we’ll likely never substantiate. We need human studies and investigative trials that consider dose-response to fully understand how these plant constituents interact with the Endocannabinoids our body produces. We’re just now delving into Endocannabinoid Balance and Tone, exploring this subject beyond tolerance to THC. We’re finding that the system requires a diverse protocol of nature, exercise, and a balanced diet to achieve homeostasis rather than relying solely on a dropper bottle of plant extract.

We must continue to rely on the world of Cannabis Science, Plant Science, and the global medical research community to expand our understanding of studies and learn more. At the same time, many enjoy using the cannabinoid now to help enhance how THC works, and some find that CBGa balances their Endocannabinoid System to allow the benefits of THC they were once getting to return.
While some anecdotal reports discuss ingesting CBGA from hemp, using concentrates, or other forms, have given them great relief, those with medical issues should consult a healthcare professional for treatment options. We do not intend to be any replacement for that.
Overall, CBGA’s role as a precursor to other cannabinoids and its potential therapeutic benefits make it an area of interest for further research and exploration in cannabis science.
But, the number one reasons I personally love this cannabinoid is it’s ability to kickstart our day and let the Sunshine in – just like the awesome song from the 60’s. This is the dawning of the age of Genevieve’s Dream and Researcher Brands – both brought to you with CBGa and CBG!
Keep your ECS Balanced, lower your THC Tolerance, and reduce your risks of issues that we all want to avoid in life. Stay healthy, stay happy, and most of all – stay balanced!

© Mike Robinson, The Researcher, Founder of Genevieve’s Dream
(Reprints of our blog are allowed with proper linkback to this website)
“We’re captive on the carousel of time, we can’t return we can only look behind.” -Joni Mitchell