When it comes to cannabinoids, most people are familiar with CBD—but there’s another compound gaining attention for its powerful wellness potential: CBG (cannabigerol).
Often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG is the precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD. While it’s been less studied historically, new research is beginning to highlight its unique role in supporting the body—especially when it comes to inflammation and overall wellness.
Why Liver Health Matters More Than Ever
A growing condition called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)—a more advanced form of fatty liver disease—is on the rise in the U.S.
MASH is associated with:
- Chronic inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Fat accumulation in the liver
- Fibrosis (scarring)
According to recent research, the prevalence of MASH has increased significantly over the past decade, and treatment options remain limited—often focusing only on lifestyle changes or expensive medications with side effects (Joly et al., 2025).
What the Research Says About CBG
A recent preclinical study published in Nutrients (Joly et al., 2025) explored how CBG impacts liver health in female models of MASH—and the findings are promising.
-Reduced Inflammation
CBG significantly decreased immune cell infiltration in the liver, including monocytes and T-cells—both of which are known to drive inflammation in MASH.
This aligns with earlier cannabinoid research showing anti-inflammatory effects across multiple conditions (Horváth et al., 2012).
-Lower Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress—essentially cellular damage caused by free radicals—is a major factor in liver disease progression.
In this study, CBG reduced markers of oxidative DNA damage, suggesting it may help protect cells at a deeper level (Joly et al., 2025).
-Decreased Liver Fibrosis
Fibrosis (scar tissue buildup) is one of the most serious aspects of liver disease. Researchers found that CBG reduced collagen deposition and slowed the activation of cells responsible for scarring.
Other studies have similarly highlighted the importance of targeting fibrosis pathways to improve long-term outcomes (Schwabe et al., 2020).
-Targeting a Key Inflammatory Pathway
One of the most compelling findings: CBG appears to inhibit TGF-β1, a protein that plays a major role in inflammation and fibrosis.
By reducing this pathway, CBG may help interrupt the cycle that leads to long-term liver damage (Joly et al., 2025).
-Immune System Modulation
CBG also reduced overactive immune responses by lowering levels of specific inflammatory cells.
This is important because MASH progression is closely tied to immune system imbalance and chronic inflammation (Li et al., 2020).
What Does This Mean for Everyday Wellness?
While this research is still in early stages (and conducted in animal models), it adds to a growing body of evidence that CBG may support:
- A healthy inflammatory response
- Cellular protection against oxidative stress
- Overall balance within the body
It also highlights something important: wellness isn’t about a single ingredient—it’s about how different compounds work together to support your body over time.
How We Use CBG at Basic Jane
At Basic Jane, we’re always looking at emerging research to guide our formulations—and CBG is one ingredient we’re especially excited about.
That’s why both our Passion Chews and Refresh Chews include a thoughtful blend of cannabinoids—20mg of CBD and 5mg of CBG per serving—designed to support balance, recovery, and overall wellness.
The Bottom Line
CBG is still early in its research journey, but studies like Joly et al. (2025) are helping us better understand its potential—especially when it comes to inflammation and internal balance.
As science continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of wellness goes beyond just CBD—and CBG is helping lead the way.
References
- Joly, R. et al. (2025). Cannabigerol Alleviates Liver Damage in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Female Mice via Inhibition of TGF-β1. Nutrients.
- Horváth, B. et al. (2012). The Endocannabinoid System and Plant-Derived Cannabinoids in Diabetes and Diabetic Complications.
- Schwabe, R.F. et al. (2020). Mechanisms of Fibrosis Development in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis.
- Li, H. et al. (2020). Crosstalk between Liver Macrophages and Surrounding Cells in NASH.
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