A recent study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has found that certain compounds in cannabis may offer new hope for treating a common liver condition known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This problem affects nearly one-third of adults worldwide.
The research, published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, specifically looked at cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG). Both compounds, which do not cause a “high” like THC, were shown to reduce liver fat and enhance metabolic health in experimental settings.
MASLD is largely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, and current treatment options are limited, primarily focusing on lifestyle changes that can be hard to stick with.
Joseph Tam, the lead author of the study and director of the Multidisciplinary Center for Cannabinoid Research, highlighted that CBD and CBG improve how the liver uses energy and cleans up waste. They appear to act as a “backup battery” for the liver, boosting levels of phosphocreatine, an energy-rich molecule. This finding is particularly significant as it suggests that these compounds can help the liver cope with the stress of high-fat diets.
The study also noted that CBD and CBG help the liver break down harmful fats, clearing out substances that can lead to inflammation. While both compounds showed benefits, CBG was more effective in reducing total body fat, lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol, and improving insulin sensitivity.
Despite the promising results, researchers caution that these findings are based on controlled experiments. More clinical trials are needed to verify how effective these compounds would be in humans.
Moreover, a review published in JAMA earlier this year pointed out that there are still gaps in our understanding of the medical use of cannabis, noting that while many believe in its benefits, scientific evidence is limited for many conditions.
Researchers stress that although cannabinoids can be beneficial for specific issues like appetite loss related to HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy, they are not a cure-all. It’s essential for anyone considering cannabis for medical purposes to consult with a healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits.
