Cannabigerol (CBG) Benefits Explained

Cannabigerol (CBG) Benefits Explained A Deep Dive into the “Mother Cannabinoid’s” Therapeutic Potential

Cannabigerol, or CBG, is rapidly emerging from the shadow of its more famous cousins, THC and CBD, to claim its rightful place in the spotlight of cannabinoid research. Often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid” because it is the precursor from which other cannabinoids are synthesized, CBG is present in young cannabis plants in its acidic form, CBGA. As the plant matures, enzymes convert CBGA into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. Heating the plant material then decarboxylates these acidic forms into their neutral, active counterparts THC, CBD, and CBC, with only trace amounts of CBG typically remaining unless specifically bred or harvested early. Unlike THC, CBG is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the euphoric “high” associated with cannabis use. This characteristic, shared with CBD, makes it an appealing subject for therapeutic research, particularly for individuals seeking the potential health benefits of cannabinoids without psychoactive effects. While research into CBG is still in its early stages compared to THC and CBD, preclinical studies and anecdotal reports suggest a wide range of potential health benefits, hinting at its significant therapeutic promise. This exhaustive article delves deep into the known science behind CBG, exploring its mechanisms of action and the specific areas where it shows therapeutic potential, offering unique insights and a comprehensive look at this fascinating compound.

Understanding CBG’s Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System and Beyond

To appreciate the potential benefits of CBG, it’s crucial to understand how it interacts with the body’s complex physiological systems. The primary system involved is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a regulatory network composed of endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by the body), cannabinoid receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids. The ECS plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis, influencing functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, pain sensation, inflammation, and immune response. CBG exhibits a nuanced interaction with the ECS. Unlike THC, which acts as a partial agonist at both CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBG is believed to be a weak partial agonist or antagonist at these receptors, depending on the study and context. This means it doesn’t strongly activate them like THC does, explaining its non-intoxicating nature. However, its interaction is far from passive. CBG’s subtle modulation of CB1 and CB2 receptors may contribute to some of its therapeutic effects, potentially influencing neurotransmitter release and immune cell activity. But CBG’s activity extends significantly beyond the classical cannabinoid receptors. This is where much of its unique potential lies and where deeper insights emerge. CBG is known to interact with several non-cannabinoid receptors and ion channels, providing alternative pathways for therapeutic action. Key interactions include

• TRP Channels (Transient Receptor Potential Channels): CBG is a potent agonist of several TRP channels, particularly TRPA1, TRPV1, TRPV2, and TRPV4. These channels are involved in sensing temperature, pain, and inflammation. Activating TRPA1 and TRPV1 channels can initially cause a sensation (like warmth or irritation), but chronic activation or desensitization can lead to analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. This interaction is thought to be a major contributor to CBG’s potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, offering a mechanism distinct from or complementary to its ECS interactions.
• Alpha-2 Adrenergic Receptors: CBG acts as an agonist at alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which are involved in regulating blood pressure, heart rate, and neurotransmitter release (like norepinephrine). Activation of these receptors can have sedative, analgesic, and anti-anxiety effects. This interaction provides another potential pathway for CBG’s influence on mood, pain, and potentially even conditions like glaucoma by affecting fluid dynamics.
• 5-HT1A Receptors (Serotonin Receptors): CBG is a potent antagonist at the 5-HT1A receptor, a subtype of serotonin receptor. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and anxiety. While agonists at this receptor are often anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), antagonists can also influence mood and behavior, sometimes in complex ways related to modulating serotonin pathways. This interaction could play a role in CBG’s potential effects on anxiety and depression.
• PPARγ Receptors (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma): Some research suggests CBG may interact with PPARγ receptors, which are nuclear receptors involved in metabolism, inflammation, and cell differentiation. Activation of PPARγ has been linked to anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. This interaction could contribute to CBG’s potential benefits in metabolic disorders and certain types of cancer. Understanding this broader spectrum of receptor interactions is critical to appreciating CBG’s diverse potential benefits. It doesn’t just modulate the ECS; it influences multiple signaling pathways involved in pain, inflammation, mood, and cellular health, providing a foundation for its reported therapeutic effects.

Scientific Evidence for CBG’s Neuroprotective Power Protecting Brain Cells and Function

One of the most promising areas of CBG research is its potential as a neuroprotectant. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease, are characterized by the progressive loss of neurons in the brain, leading to debilitating cognitive and motor deficits. Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are key contributors to this neuronal damage. Preclinical studies, particularly on animal models, have shown compelling evidence for CBG’s neuroprotective effects. A landmark study published in the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology in 2015 investigated the effects of CBG in a mouse model of Huntington’s disease. The researchers found that CBG acted as a neuroprotectant, improving motor deficits and preserving striatal neurons from degradation. Crucially, they found that CBG achieved these effects by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, key pathological features of Huntington’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. The mechanisms behind CBG’s neuroprotection are thought to involve its multifaceted receptor interactions. Its anti-inflammatory effects, potentially mediated through modulating the ECS (specifically CB2 receptors on immune cells) and interacting with TRP channels and PPARγ, can dampen the neuroinflammatory processes that damage neurons. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties can combat oxidative stress, which damages cellular components, including DNA and proteins, leading to cell death. CBG’s potential interaction with TRPV2 receptors is particularly interesting in the context of neuroprotection. TRPV2 channels are expressed in neurons and glial cells and are involved in processes like calcium signaling and cell survival. Modulating these channels could directly influence neuronal health and resilience. While human studies are needed to confirm these findings, the preclinical evidence strongly suggests that CBG holds significant potential as a therapeutic agent for slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases by protecting neurons from inflammatory and oxidative damage. Its ability to target multiple pathways involved in neurodegeneration positions it as a potentially valuable compound in the fight against these devastating conditions.

CBG for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Relief Calming Gut Inflammation

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing conditions like Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, is characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammation leads to severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Current treatments often involve powerful immunosuppressants with significant side effects. There is a pressing need for safer, more effective therapies to manage IBD. Research into CBG’s effects on IBD has yielded promising results, primarily from preclinical studies. A study published in Biochemical Pharmacology in 2013 investigated the effects of cannabinoids, including CBG, on chemically induced colitis in mice, a model for IBD. The study found that CBG significantly reduced colon inflammation and improved symptoms. The researchers concluded that CBG could be a potential therapeutic agent for IBD. The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of CBG are central to its potential benefit in IBD. CBG’s interaction with CB2 receptors, which are prevalent on immune cells in the gut lining, can modulate immune responses and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, its potent agonism of TRPA1 channels, also found in the gut, can influence neurogenic inflammation and gut motility. By dampening the inflammatory cascade in the gut wall, CBG could help alleviate the symptoms and pathology of IBD. Beyond direct anti-inflammatory effects, CBG’s potential influence on the gut microbiome and epithelial barrier function is an area ripe for future research. A healthy gut barrier prevents inflammatory substances from entering the bloodstream, and imbalances in the gut microbiome are implicated in IBD pathogenesis. While direct evidence is lacking, it is plausible that CBG’s modulation of inflammation could indirectly support gut barrier integrity and influence the gut environment. The preclinical evidence for CBG’s efficacy in IBD is compelling, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic strategy. Its ability to target multiple inflammatory pathways in the gut, combined with its non-intoxicating profile, makes it an attractive candidate for further investigation in human clinical trials for IBD management.

Uncovering CBG’s Potent Antibacterial Properties, Including Against MRSA

In an era of rising antibiotic resistance, the discovery of new antibacterial agents is of critical importance. Cannabinoids, including CBG, have shown intriguing antibacterial properties. While early research focused on THC and CBD, more recent studies have highlighted CBG’s significant potential in this area. A groundbreaking study published in ACS Infectious Diseases in 2020 investigated the antibacterial activity of various cannabinoids against a range of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is a particularly challenging bacterium responsible for difficult-to-treat infections in healthcare settings and communities. The study found that CBG was remarkably effective against MRSA strains. The researchers found that CBG was potent against MRSA, killing persistent bacterial cells and disrupting biofilms, which are protective layers that make bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Furthermore, they showed that CBG did not induce resistance in MRSA, a major advantage over conventional antibiotics. The exact mechanism by which CBG exerts its antibacterial effects is still being elucidated. It is hypothesized that CBG may disrupt the bacterial cell membrane or interfere with essential bacterial processes. Unlike antibiotics that often target specific pathways, CBG’s potential to act on multiple bacterial targets might contribute to its efficacy and reduced likelihood of resistance development. This discovery is highly significant. The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections poses a major global health threat. CBG’s potent activity against challenging pathogens like MRSA, coupled with its novel mechanism of action, positions it as a promising candidate for developing new antibacterial therapies. While this research is still in the preclinical phase, it opens exciting possibilities for combating antibiotic resistance with cannabinoid-based compounds.

Potential Benefits of CBG for Glaucoma Management Lowering Intraocular Pressure

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Reducing IOP is the primary therapeutic strategy to prevent optic nerve damage and preserve vision. While THC has been known to lower IOP, its psychoactive effects limit its practical use for glaucoma treatment. CBG, being non-intoxicating, presents a more viable alternative. Early research dating back to the 1990s explored the effects of various cannabinoids on IOP. Studies in animals showed that CBG could reduce IOP. A study published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics in 1990 specifically investigated the effects of CBG and other cannabinoids on IOP in cats. The study found that CBG effectively lowered IOP. The mechanism by which CBG lowers IOP is thought to involve its interaction with receptors in the eye’s drainage tissues, potentially influencing the production and outflow of aqueous humor, the fluid that fills the front of the eye. Its interaction with alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which are present in ocular tissues and influence fluid dynamics, could play a role. Additionally, potential modulation of CB1 receptors in the eye could also contribute, although CBG’s interaction here is weaker than THC’s. While promising, research on CBG for glaucoma is still limited, particularly in humans. The early animal studies provide a strong rationale for further investigation. Developing a non-intoxicating cannabinoid therapy that effectively lowers IOP could be a significant advancement in glaucoma treatment, offering an alternative or adjunctive option to existing eye drops and medications.

CBG’s Role in Alleviating Bladder Dysfunction and Overactive Bladder Symptoms

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition characterized by sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle, leading to urgency, frequency, and incontinence. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life. Current treatments have varying efficacy and can be associated with side effects. Preclinical research suggests that CBG may help alleviate symptoms of bladder dysfunction. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in 2015 investigated the effects of various cannabinoids on bladder contractions in rodents. The study found that CBG was particularly effective at inhibiting acetylcholine-induced bladder contractions, which are a major cause of OAB symptoms. The mechanism behind this effect is likely related to CBG’s influence on muscle contractions and nerve signaling in the bladder wall. While the specific receptors involved require further investigation, potential interactions include modulation of the ECS receptors present in the bladder, as well as influence on ion channels or neurotransmitter release that regulate bladder muscle activity. Its interaction with TRP channels, which are involved in sensing stretch and irritation in the bladder, could also play a role. By reducing involuntary bladder contractions, CBG could potentially help decrease urgency and frequency associated with OAB, improving bladder control and quality of life for affected individuals. While human clinical trials are necessary to confirm these findings, the preclinical data provides a solid basis for exploring CBG as a potential therapy for overactive bladder and other forms of bladder dysfunction.

Appetite Stimulation Potential of CBG Addressing Cachexia and Anorexia

Loss of appetite and weight loss (cachexia) are significant problems associated with various medical conditions, including cancer, AIDS, and other chronic diseases. Stimulating appetite is crucial for improving patient outcomes, nutritional status, and quality of life. While THC is well-known for its appetite-stimulating effects (“munchies”), its psychoactive properties can be undesirable for many patients. Research suggests CBG may offer an appetite-stimulating effect without intoxication. A study published in Psychopharmacology in 2016 investigated the effects of CBG on feeding behavior in rats. The study found that CBG specifically stimulated appetite and increased food intake in the rats. Interestingly, it did not cause the adverse side effects often associated with THC, such as altered locomotion or sedation. The mechanism behind CBG’s appetite stimulation is not fully understood but may differ from THC’s primary action via CB1 receptors. While THC strongly activates CB1 receptors in brain areas that regulate appetite, CBG’s interaction with CB1 is much weaker. This suggests that CBG might stimulate appetite through alternative pathways. Potential mechanisms could involve its influence on ghrelin (a hunger hormone) or other appetite-regulating peptides, or interactions with other receptor systems that indirectly influence feeding behavior. This potential benefit is particularly relevant for patients suffering from conditions that cause cachexia or anorexia, where improving appetite and weight gain can significantly impact recovery and well-being. CBG’s ability to potentially stimulate appetite without causing intoxication makes it a highly attractive candidate for therapeutic development in this area. Further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans and elucidate the precise mechanisms involved.

Exploring the Anticancer Potential of CBG Insights from Preclinical Studies

The potential of cannabinoids to fight cancer is a growing area of research. While THC and CBD have received considerable attention, preclinical studies are beginning to explore the anticancer properties of CBG. Research suggests that CBG may exert effects that inhibit cancer cell growth, induce cell death (apoptosis), and prevent tumor progression in certain types of cancer. One of the most significant studies investigating CBG’s anticancer potential focused on colorectal cancer. Published in Carcinogenesis in 2014, this study found that CBG inhibited the growth of colorectal cancer cells in vitro (in lab dishes) and reduced the size and number of colon tumors in a mouse model of colorectal cancer. The researchers concluded that CBG could be a novel therapeutic agent for colorectal cancer. Beyond colorectal cancer, preclinical research has suggested potential activity against other cancer types, including glioblastoma (an aggressive brain tumor), breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Studies have explored various mechanisms by which CBG might exert these effects, including

• Inducing Apoptosis: CBG may trigger programmed cell death in cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
• Inhibiting Cell Proliferation: CBG can potentially slow down or stop the uncontrolled division of cancer cells.
• Preventing Angiogenesis: CBG might inhibit the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and spread.
• Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, CBG could potentially mitigate factors that contribute to cancer initiation and progression. The mechanisms are likely complex and involve interactions with multiple pathways, potentially including modulation of the ECS, TRP channels, and PPARγ receptors, all of which have been implicated in cancer biology. It is crucial to emphasize that these findings are based on preclinical studies, primarily using isolated cancer cells or animal models. Human clinical trials are required to determine the safety and efficacy of CBG as a cancer treatment in humans. However, the initial research is promising and warrants further rigorous investigation into CBG’s potential role in cancer therapy, either alone or in combination with conventional treatments.

CBG for Pain Relief (Analgesia): Targeting Multiple Pain Pathways

Pain is a complex sensation involving multiple physiological pathways. Cannabinoids are well-known for their analgesic properties, with THC and CBD widely studied for pain management. CBG is also showing promise as a potential pain reliever, potentially acting through mechanisms that complement or differ from other cannabinoids. Preclinical studies suggest that CBG may help alleviate different types of pain, including inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain. Its potent interaction with TRP channels, particularly TRPA1 and TRPV1, is believed to be a key mechanism behind its analgesic effects. These channels are involved in the detection and transmission of pain signals. By agonizing or modulating these channels, CBG could potentially desensitize pain receptors or alter pain signaling. Furthermore, CBG’s anti-inflammatory properties, discussed earlier in the context of IBD and neuroprotection, contribute significantly to its potential for alleviating inflammatory pain. By reducing the underlying inflammation that causes pain, CBG addresses the source of the discomfort. Its potential interaction with alpha-2 adrenergic receptors can also contribute to pain relief, as activating these receptors is known to have analgesic effects. This multifaceted approach to pain relief, targeting both inflammatory processes and pain signaling pathways, makes CBG a particularly interesting compound for pain management. While human data is limited, the preclinical evidence suggests that CBG has analgesic potential. Its non-intoxicating nature makes it an attractive option for individuals seeking pain relief without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Future research, including human trials, is needed to confirm its efficacy and determine optimal dosages for various types of pain.

Potential of CBG for Anxiety and Depression Modulating Mood and Stress

Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression are increasingly prevalent. While research on cannabinoids for mood disorders is ongoing, some individuals report using cannabis products to manage symptoms. CBG is being investigated for its potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant-like effects, without the potential for increased anxiety that high doses of THC can sometimes cause. The potential mechanisms behind CBG’s effects on mood are complex and likely involve its interaction with multiple neurotransmitter systems. Its role as a potent antagonist at the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor is particularly relevant. This receptor is a target for some conventional anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications. Modulating serotonin signaling through this receptor could influence mood regulation. Furthermore, CBG’s potential interaction with alpha-2 adrenergic receptors could also contribute to anxiolytic or sedative effects, as activation of these receptors can reduce the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in the stress response. While direct studies specifically investigating CBG’s effects on anxiety and depression in humans are scarce, anecdotal reports from users and the understanding of its receptor interactions suggest potential benefits. Its non-intoxicating profile makes it a more appealing option for individuals seeking relief from anxiety and depression compared to THC. However, it’s important to note that cannabinoids can affect individuals differently, and more rigorous clinical research is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of CBG for treating mood disorders.

The Entourage Effect Synergistic Benefits of CBG with Other Cannabinoids and Terpenes

The concept of the “entourage effect” proposes that cannabinoids and other compounds in the cannabis plant, such as terpenes and flavonoids, work synergistically to enhance each other’s therapeutic effects and potentially mitigate unwanted side effects. While research on the entourage effect is still evolving, it is widely believed to play a significant role in the overall therapeutic profile of cannabis. CBG is not typically found in high concentrations in most cannabis strains unless specifically bred or harvested early. However, when present alongside other cannabinoids like CBD, THC (in legal limits), CBC, and various terpenes, its potential benefits might be amplified or modulated. For example, CBG’s anti-inflammatory effects might be enhanced when combined with CBD and specific anti-inflammatory terpenes like beta-caryophyllene. Similarly, its potential analgesic effects might be boosted by the presence of other pain-relieving compounds in the plant. Unique insights emerge when considering how CBG’s distinct receptor profile fits into the entourage. Its strong interaction with TRP channels and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors means it brings unique mechanisms of action to the mix that other major cannabinoids might not emphasize. When combined, the cannabinoids and terpenes could collectively target a broader range of pathways involved in a particular condition, leading to a more comprehensive therapeutic effect than any single compound alone. This highlights the potential value of using full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBG products (which contain other cannabinoids and terpenes, minus or with minimal THC, respectively) over isolated CBG. While isolated CBG shows promise, the synergistic interactions within the plant matrix could unlock its full therapeutic potential. More research is needed to understand the specific synergistic combinations involving CBG and how they influence various health outcomes.

Safety Profile, Dosage Considerations, and Future of CBG Research

Compared to many pharmaceutical drugs, cannabinoids like CBG generally exhibit a favorable safety profile. Preclinical studies and limited human data suggest that CBG is well-tolerated and does not produce significant adverse effects at typical doses. Unlike THC, it is non-intoxicating, eliminating the risk of psychoactive effects and impairment. However, like any supplement or compound, potential side effects can occur, although they are generally mild and uncommon. These might include digestive upset, fatigue, or changes in appetite. Interactions with certain medications are also possible, as cannabinoids can affect liver enzymes responsible for drug metabolism (cytochrome P450 enzymes). Individuals taking prescription medications should consult with a healthcare professional before using CBG products. Dosage for CBG is not yet standardized, as research is still in its early stages. Effective doses observed in preclinical studies vary widely depending on the condition being investigated, the administration method, and the animal model used. Human studies are needed to determine optimal therapeutic dosages for specific conditions. Dosage can also depend on factors such as body weight, individual metabolism, and the severity of the condition. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it while monitoring effects. The future of CBG research is bright. As cultivation techniques improve and the understanding of minor cannabinoids grows, CBG is becoming more accessible. The promising preclinical results across diverse therapeutic areas, including neuroprotection, inflammation, infection, and cancer, provide a strong impetus for further investigation. Key areas for future research include

• Human Clinical Trials: Rigorous randomized controlled trials are essential to confirm the efficacy and safety of CBG for specific medical conditions in humans.
• Mechanism Elucidation: Further research is needed to fully understand the precise molecular mechanisms by which CBG interacts with various receptors and pathways.
• Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: Studies are needed to understand how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes CBG (pharmacokinetics) and how it exerts its effects over time (pharmacodynamics).
• Optimal Delivery Methods: Research into the most effective ways to administer CBG (e.g, oral, sublingual, topical) for different conditions.
• Synergistic Effects: Further investigation into how CBG interacts with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and conventional therapies. As research progresses, we can expect a clearer picture of CBG’s therapeutic potential, optimal uses, and place in the landscape of natural health supplements and potential pharmaceutical developments.

Conclusion CBG’s Emerging Potential as a Versatile Therapeutic Cannabinoid

Cannabigerol (CBG), the foundational “mother cannabinoid,” is rapidly moving from obscurity to prominence in cannabinoid science. While less famous than THC and CBD, its unique pharmacological profile and interaction with a broad spectrum of receptors, extending beyond the classical ECS to include TRP channels, alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, and serotonin receptors, underscore its significant and diverse therapeutic potential. From protecting delicate brain cells against neurodegeneration and combating debilitating gut inflammation in IBD, to fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA and potentially managing conditions like glaucoma and overactive bladder, the preclinical evidence for CBG is compelling and spans numerous physiological systems. Its potential to stimulate appetite without intoxication offers a valuable tool for addressing cachexia, while early findings regarding its anti-cancer properties are particularly exciting, albeit requiring much more research. Furthermore, its potential to modulate pain, anxiety, and depression adds to its versatile profile. A key advantage of CBG is its non-intoxicating nature, making it an appealing option for a wide range of patients who seek therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. The concept of the entourage effect suggests that CBG’s benefits might be further enhanced when consumed as part of a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum product alongside other naturally occurring cannabis compounds. While the current body of evidence is largely derived from preclinical studies, the consistent and promising results across various disease models provide a strong scientific rationale for continued, rigorous investigation. The journey to fully understand and harness CBG’s therapeutic power is ongoing. As more human clinical trials are conducted, we will gain a clearer understanding of its efficacy, optimal dosages, and safety profile for specific conditions. In conclusion, CBG represents an exciting frontier in cannabinoid research. Its potential as a neuroprotectant, anti-inflammatory agent, antibacterial compound, and its diverse effects on appetite, bladder function, pain, and mood position it as a highly promising and versatile therapeutic agent. As research continues to unlock the secrets of the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG is poised to play an increasingly important role in natural health and potentially in future pharmaceutical interventions, offering hope for novel treatments across a range of challenging health conditions.