In the growing world of natural wellness, cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) have taken center stage. They’ve become key ingredients in many topical formulas designed to soothe, nourish, and support the body’s sense of comfort.
At The Wright Salve Co., these compounds play a vital role in how our products feel and perform. Both CBD and CBG are included in our formulations not just for their popularity, but for their unique chemistry and synergy when used together.
This post breaks down what CBD and CBG are, how they differ, how they interact with the body’s systems, and how they’re used in topical applications like The Wright Salve.
Understanding Cannabinoids
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). There are over 100 known cannabinoids, each with its own chemical structure and potential properties. Among them, CBD and CBG are two of the most studied non-intoxicating cannabinoids, meaning they do not produce a “high.”
Both interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and neurotransmitters that helps maintain balance (or homeostasis) in the body.3
CBD: The Calm and Balanced Cannabinoid
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in hemp. It is extracted from the aerial parts of the plant, mainly the flowers and leaves, and is known for its balancing and soothing qualities.
How CBD Works in the Body
CBD interacts indirectly with the body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. Instead of binding directly to these receptors like THC does, CBD influences how the body’s natural endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, are produced and broken down.8
In simple terms, CBD helps the body’s natural balancing processes operate more efficiently.
Topical Use of CBD
When CBD is applied topically, it doesn’t enter the bloodstream. Instead, it interacts locally with receptors found in the skin’s endocannabinoid system.7 This can help soothe areas of discomfort, ease tension, and promote a sense of calm in the skin and underlying muscles.
In The Wright Salve, CBD works in combination with other natural ingredients to:
· Support skin hydration and resilience.
· Help the skin feel calmer and more at ease.
· Enhance the relaxing, comforting sensation when massaged into areas of tension.
CBG: The “Mother Cannabinoid”
What Is CBG?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid.” This is because CBG is the precursor from which other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, are synthesized. In young hemp plants, most cannabinoids begin as CBG-A (cannabigerolic acid), which converts into other cannabinoids as the plant matures.
Because this conversion leaves behind only small amounts of CBG in mature plants, CBG is sometimes called a “rare cannabinoid.”
How CBG Works
Like CBD, CBG interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, though it has a different receptor affinity. Early research suggests that CBG binds more directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, potentially complementing CBD’s indirect interactions.5
This difference may help explain why CBD and CBG together create such a balanced, full-bodied topical experience.
Topical Use of CBG
When used in topical products, CBG is appreciated for its skin-conditioning, calming, and soothing properties. It has been studied for its potential role in maintaining skin integrity and helping to reduce the visible signs of stress or dryness.2
In The Wright Salve, CBG adds another layer of comfort and balance, complementing CBD and amplifying the soothing experience when applied to tired muscles or joints.
CBD vs. CBG: Key Differences
|
Feature |
CBD |
CBG |
|
Full Name |
Cannabidiol |
Cannabigerol |
|
Role in the Plant |
Secondary cannabinoid |
Precursor to other cannabinoids |
|
Receptor Interaction |
Indirect influence on CB1 & CB2 receptors |
Binds more directly to CB1 & CB2 receptors |
|
Topical Benefits |
Helps calm, balance, and hydrate skin |
Supports skin integrity and comfort |
|
Presence in Hemp |
Abundant |
Naturally low concentration |
|
Synergy with Other Cannabinoids |
Complements and enhances |
Amplifies and stabilizes effects |
Both cannabinoids are non-intoxicating and work best together; a concept known as the entourage effect.
The Entourage Effect: Better Together
The entourage effect describes how multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds can work in harmony to enhance the overall impact of a formulation.9
When CBD and CBG are combined in a product like The Wright Salve, they don’t compete with each other, they complement each other.
· CBD helps the skin feel calm and relaxed.
· CBG helps promote balance and overall comfort.
· Together, they support a full-body sense of ease that feels natural and complete.
This synergy is what makes The Wright Salve’s 1:1 ratio of CBD and CBG (1000 mg each) so effective in topical applications.
How CBD and CBG Support the Skin
The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it has its own network of endocannabinoid receptors that play a role in regulating moisture, sensitivity, and response to external stressors.6
When cannabinoids like CBD and CBG are applied topically:
· They interact locally with receptors in the skin, without entering the bloodstream.
· They may help maintain healthy skin barrier function by supporting hydration and calmness.
· They can soothe areas of temporary tension or tightness, especially when massaged in with nourishing oils and butters.
In The Wright Salve, CBD and CBG are paired with rich botanical carriers that enhance absorption and create a smooth, comforting feel.
The Role of Carrier Oils and Botanicals
Cannabinoids work best when supported by high-quality base ingredients. The Wright Salve’s formula includes:
· Jojoba Oil – Mimics the skin’s natural sebum, helping maintain softness and balance.
· Cacao Butter – Provides deep moisture and a smooth glide for massage.
· MCT Coconut Oil – Helps cannabinoids and essential oils spread evenly across the skin.
· Dragon’s Blood Tree Resin – Known for its antioxidant-rich profile and soothing effect on the skin.4
· Essential Oils – Frankincense, Myrrh, and Tea Tree create aromatic and cosmetic synergy that refreshes, balances, and revitalizes.
Each of these ingredients plays a role in supporting skin health and enhancing the soothing, restorative experience of the salve.
CBD and CBG in Everyday Use
CBD and CBG-infused topicals can easily become part of a daily wellness routine. Here are some simple ways customers use The Wright Salve to support comfort and relaxation:
· After physical activity: Apply to areas that feel tense or overworked.
· Post-shower or bath: Massage into the skin to lock in moisture and promote relaxation.
· At bedtime: Use as part of a nighttime ritual to unwind and soothe the body before sleep.
· After sun exposure: Apply gently to nourish and calm the skin.
Each use turns into a moment of mindfulness, an opportunity to connect with your body and breathe deeply, aided by the natural aromas of essential oils.
The Science of Topical Absorption
When applied to the skin, CBD and CBG interact with the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of skin. Their lipophilic (fat-loving) nature allows them to blend well with the skin’s natural oils.
Topical products like The Wright Salve use emollients and carrier oils to deliver cannabinoids effectively where they’re needed most, right at the skin’s surface and nearby tissues.
Studies have found that cannabinoids can remain active at the epidermal and dermal levels, supporting local comfort without systemic absorption.1
Why Topicals Feel Different from Other Products
Unlike ingestible forms (like oils or capsules), topical CBD and CBG are designed for localized support. They don’t reach the bloodstream, which makes them ideal for users seeking targeted relief and relaxation rather than systemic effects.
This localized focus is what gives products like The Wright Salve their distinct, comforting feel, especially when applied to areas of tightness, soreness, or tension.
The Wright Salve: A Perfect Balance
The Wright Salve’s signature formulation combines 1000 mg CBD and 1000 mg CBG in a base of skin-loving botanicals. This blend is designed to:
· Support localized comfort for muscles and joints.
· Help the skin feel soft, hydrated, and nourished.
· Create a relaxing sensory experience with the help of essential oils.
· Enhance the look and feel of skin resilience.
Every jar is handmade in small batches in Teton Valley, Idaho, ensuring attention to detail, ingredient integrity, and consistent quality.
What Makes The Wright Salve Different
1. Balanced Cannabinoid Ratio – A 1:1 blend of CBD and CBG for maximum synergy.
2. Whole-Plant Approach – Harnesses both cannabinoids and botanicals for a full-spectrum experience.
3. Clean Formulation – Free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, or harsh additives.
4. Artisan Craftsmanship – Handmade in small batches with care.
5. Holistic Focus – Supports the skin and body naturally through soothing, plant-based ingredients.
Safe and Mindful Use
When using any cannabinoid-infused topical, follow these safety practices:
· Apply to clean, dry skin.
· Use small amounts at first, then adjust as needed.
· Patch test if you have sensitive skin.
· Store in a cool, dark place to preserve potency and freshness.
Topicals like The Wright Salve are designed to integrate easily into your daily self-care routine, offering a gentle, plant-based way to support comfort and calmness.
The Future of CBD and CBG in Topical Skincare
Research on cannabinoids is expanding rapidly, especially in the areas of dermatology and skin wellness. Scientists continue to explore how compounds like CBD and CBG interact with skin cells, the microbiome, and the endocannabinoid system.1,6
As this field grows, companies like The Wright Salve Co. remain committed to using safe, well-researched, and high-quality ingredients to craft products that bring nature and science together in harmony.
Conclusion
The science behind CBD and CBG is both fascinating and promising. These two cannabinoids work together to support comfort, balance, and nourishment for the skin and body.
At The Wright Salve Co., we believe that wellness should feel natural. By blending CBD and CBG with rich botanicals, essential oils, and resins, we’ve created products that honor both modern science and ancient plant wisdom.
Whether you’re seeking to soothe tired muscles, refresh your skin, or simply elevate your daily self-care ritual, The Wright Salve offers a natural, luxurious way to connect with comfort and balance.
References
1. Baswan, S. M., Klosner, A. E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., & Stern, N. (2020). Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 13, 927–942. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S286411
2. Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., & Izzo, A. A. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental colitis. Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), 1306–1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.02.017
3. Bruni, N., Della Pepa, C., Oliaro-Bosso, S., Pessione, E., Gastaldi, D., & Dosio, F. (2018). Cannabinoid Delivery Systems for Pain and Inflammation Treatment. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 1259. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259
4. Cai, Y., Luo, Q., Sun, M., & Corke, H. (2004). Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic Compounds of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Plants. Life Sciences, 74(17), 2157–2184. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lfs.2003.09.047
5. Cascio, M. G., Gauson, L. A., Stevenson, L. A., Ross, R. A., & Pertwee, R. G. (2010). Evidence that the plant cannabinoid cannabigerol is a highly potent α2-adrenoceptor agonist and moderately potent 5HT1A receptor antagonist. British Journal of Pharmacology, 159(1), 129–141. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00515.x
6. Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllősi, A. G., Czifra, G., ... & Bíró, T. (2014). Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 124(9), 3713–3724. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI64628
7. Palmieri, B., Laurino, C., & Vadalà, M. (2019). A therapeutic effect of CBD-enriched ointment in inflammatory skin diseases and cutaneous scars. La Clinica Terapeutica, 170(2), e93–e99. https://doi.org/10.7417/CT.2019.2116
8. Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), 199–215. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bjp.0707442
9. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
