If you have been keeping up with the times, you know what CBD and THC are. What you may not know about, but should, is CBG. This is just one more of the hundreds of compounds in a cannabis plant. More is being discovered about this exciting compound every day. Here are some quick facts about what is CBG?

What is CBG?

The first thing is first. What is CBG and why are you just now hearing about it. CBG stands for cannabigerol. It is a parent compound found in cannabis.

CBG starts out as CBGA – the acid version that converts into CBG. From this state, CBG then converts into THCA and CBDA among other compounds. It is the reason why some in the community refer to it as a cannabis stem cell.

Because most plants are cultivated for high CBD and THC levels, CBG levels are very low. By beginning to understand the benefits this compound has to offer, more research is being invested in.

What Are the Benefits of CBG?

Luckily, such organizations as NCBI have conducted studies utilizing CBG. They have evidence to suggest CBG offers a host of health benefits. The physiological benefits are similar to that of CBD. This is due in part to the fact that, according to NCBI, CB1 and CB2 receptors are affected by CBG.

There is evidence to suggest CBG can help with conditions such as:

• Colitis
• Neurodegeneration
• Cancer

This is based on information gleaned from a study from NCBI. The benefits are enhanced when utilized along with CBD or THC. This combined enhancement is what is known as the entourage effect.

A different study from NCBI from 2013 suggests it is possible to reduce inflammation. This was related specifically to inflammatory bowel disease. It was shown to have an effect on lab mice, and therefore may be beneficial to humans as well.

Yet one more study from NCBI in 2014 used rats to show the possibility of reducing the growth rates of cancer cells. This was related to rats with colon cancer. It makes it possible there may be a link between CBG and reducing colon cancer.

Enjoying the Benefits of CBG

You may enjoy the benefits of CBG rather easily. A number of different products are hitting the market. This includes everything from edibles to flowers to cartridges for an oil cartridge vape pen.

The method by which you utilize CBG will depend on what you are most comfortable with. Things like extracts can be added to food or drinks much the same way CBD is. This way, you can get the benefits you desire in a discreet manner.

For those looking to utilize CBG on the go, it is possible to find an oil vape pen. You can discreetly inhale the vapor with no scent, or a pleasing scent. This way, you can maintain your usage wherever you go.

What to be Careful of with CBG?

As mentioned above, CBG is not in plentiful supply. There are those in the industry seeking to find ways to produce more. This is accomplished through cross-breeding different plants. The idea is to generate more plants with higher levels of CBG that are not converted into other compounds.

In the meantime, non-regulation of the market can create problems. Some may inadvertently offer products without safety concerns addressed. Others may consciously attempt to take advantage of people. It is best to stick to products which have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency.

Keep in mind there are, as of yet, no official endorsements from the FDA of the efficacy of CBG. It is important to speak with your doctor before starting to use CBG. It is possible doing so without a conversation could cause problems. Interaction with medication is always a possibility.

The Future of CBG

While the research is ongoing, there is still a lot we do not know about CBG. More research will be conducted as more people, like you, get interested. The explosion in the marketplace is causing the necessary buzz to drive research.

Dosage calculations, as well as FDA endorsement, may be on the way. This will help us to know better about how much we should use and why. More of the scientific community is willing to identify the health benefits of CBG. This is due in large part to the easing of the stigma attached to cannabis. As THC is legalized in more places, more cannabis can be cultivated. This will also help us to discover more information.

We know about the possible health benefits CBG may offer. It is easy to see the potential for this compound. As the parent of so many other understood and beneficial compounds, it is likely we will discover more.

Take the time to do your research on any product you are thinking about taking. Talk with your doctor. As always, start with a low dosage and increase gradually until you find the dosage that works best for you.

You don’t need a medical marijuana card to buy cannabis in California. However, there are benefits to getting an MMIC card if you are eligible for one because of a health condition. These include paying less tax on the cannabis you buy, and higher limits on the amount of cannabis you are allowed to buy and grow.

Where can I apply for an MMIC?

You cannot get a California medical marijuana card from your regular doctor or at a clinic or doctor’s office. Instead, you have to get an MMIC through your county’s medical marijuana program. If you apply for a medical cannabis card, you will need to visit your county’s Public Health Department offices in person to attend an appointment and provide the necessary forms and applications.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in California

To get a medical marijuana identification card in California, you can apply at your county public health office by scheduling an in-person appointment and providing some paperwork, including a form completed by your doctor.

However, you can also streamline the process by going through an authorized cannabis clinic that can provide access to doctors who are experienced with the medical marijuana certification process.

While some states allow you to apply for a medical cannabis card online, in California you will need to attend an in-person appointment at your county office regardless of the route you take.

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana ID Card in California

Applying for a medical marijuana card in California involves several steps:

Consult A Medical Professional

The first thing you need to apply for a medical marijuana ID card is to discuss your health condition with a doctor. You can do this in-person or via online cannabis telehealth platforms. These can quickly put you in contact with a doctor to talk about the medical condition you want to treat or manage with medical marijuana.

They will inquire into your medical history and ask you various questions about your health and your condition. You should also take the opportunity to ask any of the questions you might have about your condition, medical marijuana, or the application process.

Wait For Certification

If your doctor or telehealth clinic approves the use of medical marijuana for your condition, they will provide you with written documentation of their approval. This is usually in the shape of a completed CDPH 9044 form. This form confirms they have diagnosed you with having one of the medical conditions that can qualify you for medical marijuana use. It does not disclose which of the medical conditions you have, only that you are suffering from at least one of them, and that the doctor deems the use of medical cannabis as appropriate.

If you use a specialized cannabis clinic to consult a doctor about medical marijuana, you can get approval within minutes. However, taking other routes may involve more extensive discussion with your doctor and a longer wait to receive a physician’s approval for medical marijuana.

Apply At Your County Office

Once you have written documentation of a doctor’s approval for medical marijuana, you still need to apply to the medical marijuana program. You can only do that at the Department of Public Health office in your county. You have to do this in person.

Although cannabis clinics can greatly streamline this process or even do it for you in some states, this is not the case in California. You can only do this via an in-person appointment.

When you attend your medical marijuana application appointment, you will need to provide identification, various documentation and forms, and your doctor’s contact information and license number. You will also have to pay an application fee which varies from county to county. You will not get this fee back if your application is rejected.

What documents are required?

When you go to the county office to attend your appointment, remember to bring all of the following documentation, or you will not be able to complete the application process:

• A completed Medical Marijuana Program Application/Renewal form, CDPH 9042
• Written approval for medical marijuana from a doctor, and/or a CDPH 9044 form completed by a doctor
• A government-issued form of photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or veteran card
• Proof of residence in your county such as a rent or utility bill. This document must provide your full name and address
• If you have a Benefit Identification Card or Medi-Cal Card, you should bring these as well

If you are a primary caregiver of a person seeking a medical marijuana card, you should bring your own photo ID and proof of residence to the appointment.

How long does it take to get a medical marijuana card in California?

It can take up to 30 days for your application to be verified, and another 35 days to receive your medical marijuana card once your application has been approved.

How much does medical Marijuana card cost in California?

Fees vary by county, but they are usually under $100. If you receive healthcare through Medi-Cal, your application fee can be reduced by 50%.

How to Register

You can register for a medical marijuana card at your county office by scheduling an appointment and attending with all of the required documents and forms. Once you have registered for a medical marijuana card, it is valid for one year, after which you will need to apply for a medical marijuana card renewal through the same process.

Qualifying Debilitating Medical Conditions

Under the California Medical Marijuana Program you can qualify as a medical marijuana patient if you have one or more of the following qualifying conditions:

• Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
• Anorexia
• Arthritis
• Cachexia
• Cancer
• Chronic pain
• Glaucoma
• Migraine
• Persistent muscle spasms, including, but not limited to, spasms associated with multiple sclerosis
• Seizures, including, but not limited to, seizures associated with epilepsy
• Severe nausea

In addition to the above conditions, you may also be eligible for a medical marijuana card if you have any other chronic or persistent medical symptom that substantially limits your ability to conduct one or more major life activities as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or may cause serious harm to your safety or physical or mental health if left untreated.

California Medical Cannabis Card FAQ

Can I go to a dispensary without a card in California?

Yes.

Under California marijuana law, you do not need a medical card to buy recreational cannabis from a marijuana dispensary in California. However, some products are only sold to medical marijuana cardholders, and some dispensaries only cater to medical marijuana patients.

How to renew a medical card in California?

The process for renewing a medical marijuana card in California is the same as the application process.

Who are Caregivers?

A caregiver is anyone who provides support to an adult with a chronic or disabling health condition. This can include physical, emotional, financial, and logistical aid. When someone is registered as your caregiver, they can assist you with seeking appropriate medical treatment, collecting prescribed drugs on your behalf, and other tasks.

How many caregivers can I have?

You can have as many caregivers as you need. However, only your primary caregiver can assist you with obtaining medical marijuana, and you can only have one primary caregiver. Your primary caregiver is the person you have legally designated as responsible for your health, housing, or safety.

How a caregiver can help me?

Your primary caregiver can help you get a medical marijuana card by attending your doctor’s appointment and card application appointment with you to help you answer questions and provide the right documents. Once you are registered, your primary caregiver can buy, grow, and transport medical cannabis on your behalf.

Where Can I Legally Buy Medical Marijuana in California

You can buy medical marijuana from your nearest California dispensary that sells medical cannabis products, which you can find on online directories like Leafly and Weedmaps. You can also buy both medical and recreational cannabis from online dispensaries and cannabis clinics.

Cannabis, and the products derived from it such as CBD oil, has a broad range of effects as it contains chemicals that interact with a system in the human body that regulates many vital processes. This system is called the endocannabinoid system.

Although it was only discovered within the last 30 years, understanding the endocannabinoid system could be key to understanding and utilizing the medicinal and therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabis extracts. But what exactly is the endocannabinoid system, and how does it work?

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system is a complex signaling system that the cells in your body use to communicate. The endocannabinoid system was only discovered in the early 1990s. As a result, experts are still studying the system to understand what it does and how it works.

While not yet fully understood, the endocannabinoid system is known to play a role in regulating a wide range of functions throughout the body, such as sleep, memory, appetite, and mood. Because of this, cannabinoid chemicals found in cannabis and other plants may have effects on the body due to their interactions with the endocannabinoid system.

Endocannabinoid System Structure

The endocannabinoid system is comprised of three main components. These are:

Cannabinoid Receptors

Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body. Cannabinoids in the body can bind to these receptors, signaling to the endocannabinoid system to perform different functions according to the cannabinoid chemical binding to the receptor.

There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors. CB1 receptors are mainly found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors mostly exist in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells.

Enzymes

Enzymes break down cannabinoids once they have completed their function of binding to cannabinoid receptors so that the receptors are available for further signals.

Endocannabinoids

Endogenous cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids, are cannabinoid chemicals that are produced by your body. Your body produces them as needed for various functions in the body, and researchers have yet to clearly establish what the healthy levels of the few known endocannabinoids should be.

What Does the Endocannabinoid System Do?

As previously mentioned, a full understanding of the endocannabinoid system and its various functions has not yet been fully established. It has been linked to many processes throughout the body, including:

• Appetite and digestion
• Metabolism
• Chronic pain
• Inflammation and other immune system responses
• Mood
• Learning and memory
• Motor control
• Sleep
• Cardiovascular system function
• Muscle formation
• Bone remodeling and growth
• Liver function
• Reproductive system function
• Stress
• Skin and nerve function

These functions all contribute to the stability of your body’s internal conditions, also known as homeostasis. If this balance is disrupted by illness or injury, the endocannabinoid system is part of the body’s response to restore the balance and return your body to healthy operation. It does more than just respond to damage or infection, however.

The endocannabinoid system is regulating your body in this way all the time. It decides when you need to sweat when you need to feel hungry, and many more details that keep your body in a healthy balance throughout the day.

This is currently believed to be the primary purpose of the endocannabinoid system.

Several health conditions are now believed to be a result of endocannabinoid deficiencies or dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system. As a result, cannabinoids from plants such as cannabis, known as phytocannabinoids, are the subject of medical research to investigate their uses in managing the endocannabinoid system.

How do phytocannabinoids work with ECS?

While endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that come from within the body, phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids that come from plants, most notably cannabis, from which they derive their name. Some phytocannabinoids can interact with the human endocannabinoid system to produce various effects depending on the particular chemical. The cannabis plant is a rich source of some of the more potent phytocannabinoids with effects on the human body, such as THC and CBD.

Much like with endocannabinoids, the effect that a phytocannabinoid has on your body when it binds to a cannabinoid receptor varies depending on the phytocannabinoid in question.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in cannabis and is responsible for most of its intoxicating effects. THC can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. As a result, it can have significant effects on both the body and the mind. Its effects include pain and nausea relief, improved sleep, and appetite stimulation.

THC has notable psychoactive properties, which may be desirable for recreational use but make it unsuitable as a long-term medicinal solution. As a result, people seeking the therapeutic effects of THC often prefer non-intoxicating alternatives such as THCA, CBD, and other phytocannabinoids found in cannabis plants.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another well-known phytocannabinoid found in cannabis. Unlike THC it has no intoxicating effects and is commonly used to tackle pain, inflammation, nausea, and anxiety. CBD does not bind to cannabinoid receptors.

Instead, most researchers believe it interacts with the endocannabinoid system by preventing the breakdown of endocannabinoids, causing them to continue having an effect on your body for longer. Other experts studying CBD believe that it binds to a cannabinoid receptor which has not been discovered yet.

If you still have questions about cannabinoids and how to use them you can always consult with our friendly staff at your local marijuana dispensary.

These days, marijuana has far less of a negative social stigma than it used to. This is largely down to the recent trend of decriminalization and legalization of the plant across the USA.

The role of cannabis in sports is an often understated one, but not for long. There are now countless fitness gurus and sports stars who use weed as part of their training and athletic recovery process, trailblazing the way for its use in the mainstream and steering weed away from its social stigma of laziness and sedentariness.

Nowadays, you can head down to your local marijuana dispensary and pick up some cannabis legally in a variety of different products, opening the door for both medicinal and recreational users. But what if there is a third use?

You don’t have to look very far to find some famous athletes who advocate the use of cannabis in sports. One of the most high-profile events was back in 2016 when Nate Diaz smoked a vape pen containing CBD oil during his post-fight press conference after his loss to Conor McGregor in their high-profile rematch. This led to a full investigation by the USADA but did not eventually lead to any suspension.

When prompted about the vape pen that he was smoking, Nate responded:

“It helps with the healing process and inflammation. You can get these for before and after training. They will make your life a better place.”

With that being said, let’s take a look at the role of marijuana and athletic performance and how it can aid in recovery.

Sleep Quality and Quantity

As we all know, sleep plays a huge role in the athletic recovery process. There have been many studies that show its significance, with most showing a strong correlation between improved sleep and improved muscle recovery times, increased glycogen synthesis, and increased aerobic endurance.

Cannabis can help athletes to get a better night’s sleep by acting as a natural sleep aid without the need for harmful and addictive drugs. Cannabis contains many chemicals that help users get to sleep faster and stay asleep for longer, boosting their recovery times through improved sleep quality.

To improve athletes’ sleep quality, another option is CBD massages, it is a really helpful way to boost their sleep quality and quantity.

Sluggish Appetites

Like sleep, having the right diet is vital for athletic recovery. Protein plays a key role in muscle synthesis and must be consumed in high amounts if our bodies are to recover effectively post-exercise. For those of us that suffer from sluggish appetites, this can be a problem.

Fortunately, cannabis has appetite-inducing properties, commonly referred to as the munchies. It’s often prescribed as a treatment for appetite loss by doctors and can also be used by athletes who struggle to hit their daily calorie target. Just make sure you stay away from the candy!

Swelling and Inflammation

The swelling and information properties in cannabis are simply amazing. This is exactly the benefit that Nate Diaz was talking about when he mentioned CBD in his post-fight press conference.

CBD has extremely powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help with various conditions and problems that can arise from intense exercise. Injuries that occur during training are typically accompanied by swelling, so supplementing with CBD oil seems like an obvious solution to the problem.

A 2015 review published in Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry found that CBD reduces inflammation through several pathways in the body, representing an effective potential treatment for a range of conditions characterized by inflammation. On top of that, CBD may prove to be an option for managing anxiety and chronic pain, which can result from intense athletic exercise.

Recovery Methods and Time

The best way to use cannabis for athletic recovery is to supplement CBD as soon as possible after your workout is completed. This allows marijuana cannabinoids to get to work immediately, helping to reduce general pain, muscle spasms, stiffness, and inflammation that can arise post-workout.

The good news is that you cannot overdose on CBD. Even when you take too much, it very rarely feels uncomfortable. THC is the compound that is responsible for the psychoactive experience that users feel when they smoke weed. If you take pure CBD oil, then you will not experience any of these effects, leaving your mind clear and your body benefiting from the recovery-boosting properties in the CBD.

This goes to show that marijuana and athletic performance complement each other very well, especially as cannabis has been shown to have very few harmful side effects when consumed responsibly.

It’s no secret that cannabis is one of the most diverse plants in the world. It has a wide range of use cases across multiple industries, which truly makes it an extremely unique and versatile part of our flora.
With the recent changes in some State laws, cannabis products and the use of its by-product has taken off. We now have a whole industry dedicated to health and wellness products using CBD oil, as well as a wide range of medicinal benefits that can be enjoyed with CBD and THC too.

CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which make it great for treating medical issues and giving pain relief to sufferers. It’s for this reason that CBD massages have been on the rise as of late. Due to its great therapeutic properties, CBD helps in relieving muscle soreness, tension, severe pain, and stress. Who wouldn’t want that, right?
In this article, we will take a closer look at CBD massages and what sort of benefits one could expect to enjoy from a little alternative self-indulgence therapy.

Potential Therapeutic Properties Offered by CBD

• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-psychotic
• Anti-epileptic
• Bone stimulant
• Analgesic
• Vasoconstriction
• Anti-diabetic

How does CBD Work?

A little-known fact is that the human body naturally produces some cannabinoids on its own. These naturally occurring compounds have two receptors in our bodies; these are referred to as CB1 and CB2 receptors.

CB1 receptors are present in the brain, spinal cord, organs, tissue, and in many of the glands all over our body. CB2 receptors are common in the immune system and affect inflammation. When we ingest CBD as a supplement, whether that’s topically or orally, the CBD binds to these receptors to give us different effects, mainly anti-inflammatory responses.

Effects of CBD Massage

A CBD massage has a relaxing effect on the body. It helps in accelerating muscle recovery and helps to alleviate pain and stress.

Here are a few surprising benefits of receiving a CBD massage.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is linked with acute pain. A CBD oil massage reduces inflammation due to its ability to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Reduces Severe Pain

Many people suffer from severe pain for a number of reasons. By having a CBD massage routine, you can get rid of chronic pain, or at least reduce the intensity.
CBD also increases blood flow throughout the affected areas, loosening the muscles naturally, and further reducing inflammation.

Improves Skin

Many skin conditions are caused by inflammation, which can cause redness and itching. CBD skincare is considered a revolution in treating acne, eczema, and other skin problems.

CBD, when applied to the skin during massage, promotes healthy glowing skin and can reduce the negative effects of the aforementioned skin conditions. CBD contains linoleic acid, which helps in regulating oil production on the skin.

Reduces Anxiety and Stress

Getting a massage is already known to be a great way to reduce stress. But, adding CBD into your massage routine can help you relax even more. CBD has anti-anxiety properties, which can really help you to unwind.

How to Prepare For a CBD Massage?

Receiving a CBD massage is an incredibly relaxing experience. If you’re a fan of regular massages, then you would be hard-pressed to find a reason to not give a CBD massage a try.
Fortunately, there is no special preparation required for a CBD massage, simply turn up and enjoy! Easy.

Best CBD Topicals for Massage

Topicals are one of the best ways to use CBD. Topicals are lotions, creams, and oils that have been infused with CBD. We have compiled a list of the best CBD topicals in the market.

Spruce Topical CBD Cream

Spruce Topical CBD Cream uses natural, gluten-free ingredients. This topical cream contains 300mg CBD oil and less than 0.3% THC. The Spruce Topical CBD Cream is developed with a silky-smooth texture.

CBDFx Topicals

Tested for quality, CBDFx Topicals contains 50mg of 100% organically grown CBD. This topical is a great alternative to pain-relieving drugs. This CBD topical product contains menthol and white willow bark.

Medterra CBD Topical Cooling Cream

Medterra CBD Topical Cooling Cream contains CBD, Arnica, and Menthol, which makes it perfect for sore muscles. With 0% THC, this topical cream provides long-term relief.

CBDistillery Topicals

CBDistillery Topical is designed to deliver CBD oil through your skin to your body. This topical product is perfect for supporting your skin. Made with high-quality hemp-derived CBD, this product is the answer for those looking for something to ease pain in the body.

cbdMD CBD Freeze Topical

cbdMD CBD Freeze Topical combines the pain-relief properties of menthol with the power of CBD. This THC-free product has 375mg of CBD per oz. This topical product is perfect for chronic pain relief and athletic recovery.
Full-spectrum topicals containing the entire plant are superior to that of a single isolate containing only CBD. It is advisable to use full-spectrum topics for the best results.

Bottom Line

If you have ever tried a regular massage, then you will know just how therapeutic and relaxing an experience it can be, but adding CBD oil into the massage routine can enhance the benefits even further.

If you suffer from a skin condition, chronic pain, or even regular muscle soreness, then a CBD massage might go a long way towards alleviating these symptoms and giving some well-needed relief.

Want to buy high-quality cannabis products in Los Angeles? Choose the best Los Angeles Marijuana Store, which offers a wide range of cannabis products, from topical lotions to CBD supplements and more.