Hebrew University Study Identifies Non-Intoxicating Cannabis Compounds CBD and CBG as Potential Breakthrough Treatments for Chronic Fatty Liver Disease

Hebrew University researchers find CBD and CBG boost liver energy and clear harmful fats, offering a new path to treat Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 7, 2026, 6:36 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Targeting Global Metabolic Dysfunction Through Botanical Science

A groundbreaking study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has identified two non-intoxicating cannabis compounds as powerful agents in the fight against fatty liver disease. Led by Professor Joseph Tam at the School of Pharmacy, the research team discovered that Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG) can effectively reduce liver fat and improve systemic metabolic health. With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) currently affecting one-third of the global adult population, these findings offer a potential pharmaceutical alternative for a condition that has historically lacked targeted medical treatments.

Enhancing Hepatic Energy Reserves via Phosphocreatine

The researchers utilized advanced molecular tools to demonstrate that CBD and CBG initiate a process known as "metabolic remodeling" within liver cells. A central discovery of the study was the significant increase in phosphocreatine levels, a molecule that functions as a high-capacity emergency energy reservoir. While the liver typically does not rely on this specific energy system, the introduction of these cannabis compounds allows the organ to maintain its vital functions even under the metabolic stress of a high-fat diet. This supplemental energy boost prevents the cellular exhaustion that often leads to permanent tissue damage.

Restoring the Cellular Recycling and Cleanup Process

Beyond energy storage, the study highlighted the ability of CBD and CBG to reactivate lysosomal enzymes known as cathepsins. These enzymes act as the primary operators within the cell's recycling centers, breaking down unwanted materials and harmful waste products. By restoring this "cellular cleanup" mechanism, the liver becomes significantly more efficient at processing and eliminating damaging lipid molecules. The research team observed a marked decrease in ceramides, which are toxic fats directly responsible for driving inflammation and insulin resistance in patients with chronic liver disorders.