As we grow older, the risk of brain ageing gets to us and more often than not we look for ways to mitigate this. Whether it’s by increasing our social interactions, pursuing “brain games” frequently or just testing ourselves with puzzles. A recent study suggests a solution in the most unthinkable of places — cannabis. So, read on to know if cannabis has the potential to reverse brain ageing.
Cannabis May Reverse Brain Ageing & Enhance Cognitive Abilities
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University Hospital Bonn, Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the University of Bonn in Germany throws light on unusual solutions to ever brain ageing. The study published in ‘ACS Pharmacology & Translation Science’ has found that administering long-term low doses of cannabis to mice can not just reverse brain ageing but also enhance cognitive abilities.
The study has discovered that the active ingredient found in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can restore cognitive functions in the brain. This happens as cannabis encourages the formation of new synapses which are the connections between nerve cells. Researchers manipulated the protein switch mTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin) during the study. This protein switch plays a key role in regulating one’s cognitive performance and metabolism. Scientists and researchers believe this discovery to give birth to new anti-ageing treatments for human brains.
Also Read: 5 Places Where You Can Get Weed At Low Costs
It Reduces Amino Acids & Carbohydrate Metabolites
To investigate, researchers used a group of male mice between four to 18 months of age. The mice were randomly administered a low dose of THC or a placebo for 28 days. The mice’s body weight, activity levels and food intake were monitored. Researchers observed that the brains of the older mice had a significant increase in mTOR activity especially in the hippocampus. This is critical for learning and memory. The cannabis also boosted the metabolic activity in the brains of the older mice.
Moreover, the adipose tissue of the THC-treated mice displayed a decrease in mTOR activity and a reduction in carbohydrate metabolites and amino acids. This is similar to what one undergoes after intense physical exercise or caloric restriction. Well, both these have anti-ageing effects on one’s body.
Also Read: 8 Countries Where It Is Always 420 Because Weed Is Legal
While these findings are promising, it does have its limitations. First of all, this research was conducted on rats with specific cannabis dosages. Human bodies function differently, so it’s yet to be found if it will have the same effects on human beings.
So, has this study piqued your interest in the positive effects of cannabis on the human brain?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.