Cannabis Compounds Show Promise in Treating Chronic Liver Disease

Research from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that compounds found in cannabis may offer a new approach to treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition affecting approximately one-third of adults globally. The study, published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, highlights the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) to reduce liver fat and enhance metabolic health.

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD and CBG do not produce a “high.” This characteristic makes them appealing candidates for long-term medical treatment, particularly for a condition that has limited approved pharmaceutical options. Patients often rely on challenging lifestyle changes for management.

Lead author Joseph Tam, director of the Multidisciplinary Center for Cannabinoid Research at the Hebrew University, noted, “Our findings identify a new mechanism by which CBD and CBG enhance hepatic energy and lysosomal function.” This study presents a potential breakthrough for those suffering from MASLD, which is linked to obesity and insulin resistance.

Understanding the Mechanism of Action

The research emphasizes a phenomenon known as “metabolic remodeling.” The cannabis compounds appear to create a “backup battery” in the liver by increasing levels of phosphocreatine, a high-energy molecule typically found in muscle cells. This energy reserve aids the liver’s functioning during high-fat dietary stress, marking a significant advancement in understanding how the organ copes with adverse conditions.

Additionally, CBD and CBG were found to restore the activity of cathepsins, enzymes that facilitate the breakdown of harmful fats and waste within cells. This enhancement allows the liver to more effectively eliminate dangerous lipids, such as triglycerides and ceramides, which can lead to inflammation.

While both CBD and CBG were effective, CBG showed superior results in several areas, including a reduction in total body fat mass, lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, and improved insulin sensitivity. The findings suggest a new direction for the use of plant-based compounds in treating metabolic diseases by focusing on cellular energy and waste management.

Limitations and Future Research Directions

Despite these promising results, the research team cautioned that the study was conducted in a controlled experimental setting. Further clinical trials are necessary to establish the appropriate application of these findings in human patients.

Recent analyses, including a major review published in JAMA, have highlighted discrepancies between public perception and scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of cannabis for various medical conditions. The review examined over 2,500 scientific papers from the past 15 years, revealing that only a few medical conditions have clear, substantiated benefits from cannabinoid therapies.

Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a double board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry & Sleep Medicine, remarked, “This study points to the reality that this widely used substance is not a panacea.” The strongest evidence currently supports the use of FDA-approved cannabinoid medications for specific medical needs, such as appetite loss related to HIV/AIDS, nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy, and certain severe pediatric seizure disorders.

Individuals considering cannabis for medical purposes should consult a healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits. The ongoing research into the therapeutic properties of cannabis compounds like CBD and CBG may pave the way for innovative treatments for conditions such as MASLD, but careful consideration and further study remain essential.