Source: Fox News
Summary
A study by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that compounds in cannabis, specifically cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG), may help treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a common chronic liver disorder affecting approximately one-third of the global adult population. The research, published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, showed that CBD and CBG reduced liver fat and improved metabolic health in experimental models. The study suggests that these compounds, which do not produce a “high,” could be viable candidates for long-term medical treatment.
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This guidance has been heard before.
Cannabis compounds have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits, including for liver disease. The current study highlights the potential of CBD and CBG in treating MASLD. However, the researchers caution that further clinical trials are necessary to determine the proper application for human patients. The study’s findings are promising, but the cannabis industry has faced criticism for making unsubstantiated claims about the benefits of its products.
The advice sounds familiar. Shifting guidelines and new studies contradicting old ones are not uncommon in the field of medical marijuana research. The cautious language used by the researchers, such as “may help treat,” is also familiar.
Metabolic remodeling, a process in which the cannabis compounds created a “backup battery” for the liver, is a new concept that has been identified in this study. The researchers also found that CBD and CBG restored the activity of “cellular cleaning crews” known as cathepsins, enzymes that work within the cell’s recycling centers to break down harmful fats and waste.
As with any medical treatment, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss potential risks and benefits before using marijuana for medical purposes.
Author: Evan Null
