In a context where the use of cannabis for therapeutic purposes is increasingly widespread, it is essential to study the potential effects of the different components of this plant on our body. Among them, cannabidiol (CBD) is attracting great interest in scientific research for its presumed medicinal properties without causing unwanted psychoactive effects such as those associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In this article we will review the research conducted on the impact of CBD on memory, as well as the different hypotheses put forward as to the mechanisms underlying these effects.
The effects of cannabis on memory: a complex question
To address the question of the relationship between CBD and memory, it should first be remembered that cannabis contains several hundred active substances, some of which have been identified as having potentially deleterious effects on cognitive functioning. Thus, several studies have looked into the effects of THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, which acts primarily by binding to CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system and can cause short-term memory deficits, particularly in regular or early cannabis users.
CBD: a different player in the endocannabinoid system
However, unlike THC, CBD has a much lower affinity for CB1 receptors and appears to interact with other targets of the endocannabinoid system and neurotransmission systems. As a result, it does not have a psychoactive effect and does not cause the cognitive disturbances generally attributed to THC consumption. On the contrary, several studies suggest that CBD could have beneficial effects on certain aspects of memory, in particular by protecting against certain deficits induced by THC. So, what exactly is it?
The current state of research on CBD and memory
There are still few specific studies investigating the isolated effects of CBD on human memory, mainly due to the complexity and methodological variations of the work carried out so far. That said, various experiments carried out on animals and on cellular models have shown promising results, highlighting different potential mechanisms that could be involved.
Protective effect of CBD against THC-induced memory deficits
A study in mice showed that CBD treatment can alleviate spatial memory deficits induced by THC exposure. The authors suggest that this effect could be linked to the moderation of CB1 receptor activation by CBD, which would limit the deleterious effects of THC on synaptic plasticity, a key mechanism in memory consolidation.
Neuroprotective effect of CBD: implications for memory
Other studies have highlighted the neuroprotective properties of CBD, which could play an important role in the prevention or treatment of certain neurodegenerative diseases characterized by memory deficits. For example, it has been shown that CBD can protect neurons against cell death caused by different forms of oxidative, inflammatory or excitotoxic stress, and promote neuronal survival.
- Alzheimer’s disease: An experimental mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease showed that CBD can improve cognition and memory by reducing neuroinflammation and promoting the reduction of amyloid plaques.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): a study carried out in rats demonstrated a beneficial effect of CBD on motor neuron survival and cognitive functions in a model of ALS, suggesting therapeutic potential for this condition.
Anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic action of CBD: effects on memory?
It is well documented that inflammation and stress may contribute to alterations in memory functioning, in particular by disrupting consolidation, storage and retrieval processes. Additionally, anxiety can also be a contributing factor in memory problems.
In this context, it is interesting to note that several studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties which could help preserve or improve memory functions. In particular, CBD has been shown to reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines, modulate serotonergic neurotransmission, and increase hippocampal neurogenesis, all mechanisms that may have a beneficial effect on memory.
In summary: what role does CBD play in the modulation of memory?
Studies carried out to date therefore suggest that CBD could have positive effects on certain aspects of memory, notably by protecting against THC-induced deficits, by exerting neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic actions, and by promoting synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. However, it is worth remembering that these results mainly come from studies carried out in animal and cellular models, and that there is still much to discover and understand about the real impact of CBD on human memory.
Nevertheless, these initial findings pave the way for more in-depth research that could help to better understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of CBD and its interactions with other components of cannabis. In the meantime, it is essential to use CBD products responsibly and in accordance with current legislation, while being attentive to possible adverse effects on our body.
