A clinical trial study led by Carrie Cuttler from the WSU Department of Psychology has shown promising results, indicating that the cannabinoid CBG can reduce anxiety and stress.
Approximately 19.1% of adults in the U.S. have an anxiety disorder each year, while 31.1% will experience one at some point in their lifetime. Anxiety disorders are more common in women than in men.
This study is the first clinical trial on humans to investigate the immediate impact of CBG on anxiety, stress, and mood. The findings suggest that CBG decreases overall feelings of anxiety and stress and may improve memory without causing intoxication, impairment, or noticeable drug effects.
CBG, a lesser-known cannabinoid, is becoming more popular. Cannabigerol (CBG) has been shown in clinical trials to effectively reduce anxiety without the intoxication usually linked with whole-plant cannabis. A recent study in scientific reports suggests it might also have some memory-enhancing effects.
The study showed that taking 20 mg of hemp-derived significantly lowered anxiety levels at 20, 45, and 60 minutes post-ingestion compared to a placebo. Stress levels also dropped at the initial measurement compared to the placebo. These results are consistent with survey data from an earlier study by Cuttler, which found that 51% of CBG users take it to reduce anxiety, with 78% claiming it is more effective than traditional anxiety medications.
THC is known to have a strong negative impact on verbal memory, which influenced our choice to incorporate a verbal memory test in this study. We initially hypothesized that CBG would not affect memory, but we were surprised to discover that CBG significantly improved verbal memory.
One of the most unexpected results was CBG's impact on memory. Unlike THC, which is known to affect memory, CBG notably improved the ability to remember lists of words. After taking 20 mg of CBG, participants recalled more words compared to when they took a placebo.
Furthermore, they noted the absence of potential side effects such as dry eyes and mouth, increased appetite, heart palpitations, and drowsiness.
Furthermore, the study found that CBG did not produce cognitive or motor impairments or other adverse effects commonly associated with THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
The experimental group participants indicated low intoxication levels and only slight changes in symptoms such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and appetite. Unlike previous self-report surveys where users praised CBG for its antidepressant effects, the participants in this study did not experience notable mood improvement after consuming CBG.
"It is important to refrain from asserting that CBG is a miracle drug. While it is new and intriguing, replication and additional research are essential," Cuttler stated. "Continued and future studies will contribute to a thorough understanding of CBG's benefits and safety, possibly providing a new way to alleviate anxiety and stress without the intoxicating effects of THC."
References
Acute effects of cannabigerol on anxiety, stress, and mood: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, field trial
Cannabinoid CBG reduces anxiety and stress in first human clinical trial
National Institute of Mental Health Prevalence of Anxiety Disorder in U.S.
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