The Effects of CBD (Cannabidiol) on Memory, Brain Function, and Learning

CBD (cannabidiol), a compound derived from the cannabis plant, has been making waves in the world of health and wellness. While many people know about its potential benefits for anxiety and pain relief, there’s growing interest in its effects on cognitive health—particularly its role in learning, memory, and brain function.

This curiosity has sparked significant research, including a recent clinical study exploring whether CBD impacts learning and memory in healthy adults. The study dives into questions like:

• Does CBD affect how we remember things or learn new information?

• Can CBD offer benefits for brain health without the drawbacks often linked to THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis?

By examining these questions, the study sheds light on how CBD might influence memory and brain activity, especially in comparison to THC. Read our article to learn more about the results and what they could mean for you.

The Effects of CBD on Brain Function and Cognitive Health

Cannabinoids, like CBD and THC, interact with a system in the body called the endocannabinoid system, which plays an essential role in regulating various brain functions, including memory, mood, and learning. While both compounds come from the cannabis plant, they affect the brain in very different ways.

THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, is known to impair memory function temporarily. It can interfere with memory consolidation, the process of turning short-term memories into long-term ones, which is why it is often associated with memory deficits. In contrast, CBD does not produce a “high” and has been shown to interact with the brain differently. Early research suggests that CBD may even counteract some of the negative effects of THC on memory while supporting cognitive health.

CBD is believed to work by interacting with receptors in the brain, particularly those involved in reducing inflammation and regulating brain activity. Previous research has also highlighted CBD’s potential anxiolytic-like effects, meaning it may help reduce anxiety, which can, in turn, support memory performance. Clinical trials have shown that CBD may improve episodic memory, the ability to recall specific events, without causing the cognitive disruptions often linked to THC. 

By understanding the distinct effects of CBD on the brain, researchers hope to unlock its potential in supporting cognitive health and memory function.

Research on CBD’s Impact on Learning and Memory in the Human Brain

To better understand the acute effects of CBD on learning and memory, researchers recently conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover trial, considered the gold standard in scientific research. This method ensures the results are unbiased and reliable, as neither the participants nor the researchers know who is receiving a dose of CBD or a placebo at any given time.

The study involved healthy adults across different age groups to examine the impact of cannabidiol on memory function throughout the human lifespan. Participants were given 600 mg of oral CBD oil in a controlled setting, a dosage consistent with previous research on CBD’s effects on brain function.

To assess cognitive performance, participants completed a series of memory and learning tasks. One of these was the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test - Revised (RAVLT-R), which measures memory recall and recognition. Another was the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), a test designed to evaluate general cognitive abilities, including attention and memory. Lastly, the Prose Recall Test was used to assess how well participants could remember detailed information from a narrative.

By combining these assessments, the study provided a thorough evaluation of how CBD treatment influences different aspects of memory and learning, from episodic memory to overall cognitive performance.

Key Findings: How CBD Affects Memory and Cognitive Function

The study produced intriguing results about the effects of CBD on learning and memory.

• No Significant Impairment:
  Unlike THC, CBD did not impair learning or memory in healthy adults. This is a critical finding because it suggests that CBD can be used without the risk of cognitive disruptions often associated with cannabis use.
  
  

• Age-Related Effects:
  One interesting observation was that CBD seemed to have a unique effect on proactive interference—a phenomenon where older information disrupts the ability to learn and remember new material. This effect was more pronounced in older adults, suggesting that CBD may be particularly beneficial for age-related memory impairment.
  
  

• Young vs. Older Adults:
  The study noted subtle differences in how CBD affected younger versus older participants, likely due to variations in brain activity and connectivity patterns between age groups. While the exact mechanism remains unclear, it highlights the need for further research into how CBD influences brain function at different life stages.
  
  

• Comparison to Previous Research:
  These findings align with earlier research that examined the effects of acute CBD administration. Notably, previous studies using methods like vaping CBD showed differences in bioavailability, with oral CBD providing a slower but more sustained effect. This highlights the importance of dosage and method of administration when assessing CBD’s impact on memory performance.
  
  

Overall, the study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that CBD may have cognitive benefits for all age groups, without the negative effects on memory often linked to THC.

CBD Products and Brain Health: What This Research Means for You

This study provides valuable insights for those considering CBD as part of their wellness routine, particularly in relation to cognitive health and memory function.

For healthy adults, the study confirmed that CBD does not impair learning or memory. This is an encouraging result for those who want to use CBD for its other benefits, such as stress relief or improved focus, without concerns about negative effects on brain function.

Keep in mind that despite these positive findings, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabidiol and how it may impact people differently based on factors such as age, dosage, and overall health. While this study provides important data, future research will help determine CBD’s full potential in supporting memory and brain function over time.

For now, CBD shows great promise as a natural supplement for cognitive health, with minimal risks when used responsibly.

Conclusion: The Effects of CBD on Cognitive Health and the Human Brain

This study reinforces the idea that CBD can offer cognitive benefits without the memory-related drawbacks often associated with the effects of Cannabis and THC. It provides hope for older adults dealing with age-related memory challenges while confirming that healthy individuals can use CBD without fear of impairing their learning or memory.

As always, if you’re considering CBD to support your cognitive health or overall well-being, but are already using prescription medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to find the right dosage and approach for your needs.

Curious to learn more? Reach out with any questions - our team is here to help!

Sources

[1] Gebregzi HH, Zeiger JS, Smith JP, Stuyt L, Cullen L, Carsella J, Rogers DC, Lafebre J, Knalfec J, Vargas A, Diawara MM. Oral cannabidiol did not impair learning and memory in healthy adults. J Cannabis Res. 2025 Jan 23;7(1):5.