The Surprising Cannabinoid That May Boost Memory and Reduce Anxiety

In a groundbreaking study, scientists have uncovered unexpected benefits of cannabigerol (CBG), a lesser-known compound found in cannabis. This first-ever human clinical trial, conducted by researchers at Washington State University (WSU) and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), has revealed that CBG not only significantly reduces anxiety and stress but also appears to improve memory.

The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, involved 34 healthy adults who were given either 20mg of hemp-derived CBG or a placebo over two sessions. Participants completed online assessments rating their anxiety, stress, and mood before and after administration, followed by a stress test and a verbal memory test.

The results were striking. CBG was associated with an average 26.5 percent reduction in feelings of anxiety and showed a significant effect on subjective stress ratings. But it was the impact on memory that truly surprised the researchers. Lead author and WSU associate professor of psychology Carrie Cuttler admitted, “The finding that it significantly enhanced [memory] was kind of shocking to me and completely, entirely unexpected, which was why I triple-checked the direction and the result.”

This memory enhancement was observed in a verbal memory test where participants listened to and immediately recalled two sets of 16 words. The improvement was statistically significant, a finding that the researchers are eager to replicate in future studies.

Importantly, these benefits came without any evidence of intoxication, impairment, or other subjective drug effects often associated with cannabis use. This suggests that CBG could offer a new avenue for reducing anxiety and stress without the psychoactive effects of THC.

The study was informed by earlier survey data, which found that 51 percent of CBG users primarily consume it to mitigate anxiety, with nearly 80 percent reporting it as more effective than conventional anxiety medications.

While these results are promising, Cuttler cautions against viewing CBG as a “miracle drug.” She emphasizes the need for replication and further research to build a comprehensive understanding of CBG’s benefits and safety profile.

Looking ahead, Cuttler and her team are planning follow-up studies. These include an in-person clinical trial to assess the physiological effects of CBG, such as its impact on blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol levels, and body temperature. There are also initial discussions about investigating CBG’s potential effects on menopause symptoms.

This research adds to a growing body of evidence exploring the therapeutic potential of various cannabinoids. Recent studies have also investigated CBD’s protective effects against UV damage and the anticancer properties of minor cannabinoids, including CBG.

As interest in cannabinoids continues to grow, studies like this one are crucial in separating fact from fiction and providing evidence-based insights into their potential benefits. While more research is needed, the findings on CBG offer an exciting glimpse into the possibilities of this lesser-known cannabinoid as a tool for managing anxiety, stress, and potentially enhancing cognitive function.