A comprehensive study funded by the US federal government suggests that cannabis users outperform in various cognitive domains, with effects observed in different brain systems. 

The research analyzed brain images and data from 37,929 UK participants, aged 44 to 81 years old.

According to the researchers, cannabis consumers consistently outperformed non-users in a series of tests, revealing brain patterns typically seen in younger individuals. The findings indicate that the plant may be associated with neural aging deceleration and cognitive function preservation.

Possible neuroprotective effect

The article suggests that cannabinoids and endocannabinoids may exert a neuroprotective effect, helping to maintain a functional balance in the brain, essential for preserving specialized processing and efficient communication between brain networks.

The study involved researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Georgia State University, University of Colorado, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Tri-Institutional Center for Translational Neuroimaging and Data Science. It was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.

Increasing use among the elderly

The authors highlight that legalization, changes in social perceptions, and recognition of therapeutic potential have contributed to the increased consumption of cannabis among older adults, now the fastest-growing group of users. Many turn to the plant for managing chronic physical and mental health conditions.

The study revealed that from middle age into the 60s and beyond, users showed brain networks similar to those of younger brains and more robust cognitive abilities.

To fill gaps in previous research, the team used advanced neuroimaging techniques and cognitive assessments from the UK Biobank. The results reinforce the hypothesis that cannabinoids may modulate the brain's functional organization, potentially strengthening cognitive resilience in neurodegenerative processes.
Despite the encouraging results, the authors state that more studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved.

Other studies support findings

Recent research corroborates this view. A 2023 study showed that prescribed medicinal cannabis has minimal impact on the cognitive function of patients with chronic conditions. Another study, with oncology patients, indicated increased mental clarity and pain relief with medicinal use.

Among adolescents and young adults at risk of developing psychotic disorders, regular consumption for two years did not precede psychosis symptoms and was associated with small cognitive improvements.

Furthermore, data from over 63 million health plan beneficiaries analyzed by the American Medical Association indicated no significant increase in psychosis diagnoses in states that legalized cannabis.

With information from Marijuana Moment.

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