Navigating autism can be challenging, meaning it’s vital to understand different ways to manage its complex symptoms. While several successful treatment options are available, others are emerging that show serious promise. CBG, a lesser-known cannabinoid, is one of them. Early studies hint that CBG may contain potential benefits for autism, which is exactly what we’ll explore in this article.
Understanding Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a wide range of conditions related to brain development. While it primarily involves difficulties in social skills and communication, individuals with ASD might also have sensory issues, display repetitive behavior, and find it hard to transition between tasks.
Autism Symptoms
People with ASD can exhibit a huge range of symptoms (where the word “spectrum” comes from), which include:
Feeling uneasy or awkward in social interactions, not knowing what to say or the “right” thing to say, having a hard time expressing emotion and feelings
Difficulty understanding normal social behavior such as body language, personal space, social cues, speaking at the right time, etc.
Challenges with verbal and nonverbal communication that include things like reading facial expressions and tone of voice, talking too loud, etc.
Repetitive behavior that includes “lower order” repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping, body rocking, grunting, etc., and “higher order” repetitive behaviors like routines, rituals, the need for things to be the same, and having intense interests
Sensory issues such as being over-sensitive or under-sensitive to certain sounds, smells, tastes, textures, and sights.
Living with autism can be is challenging. Depending on where someone is on the spectrum, they might find it hard to form friendships and navigate social situations. Others might find seeking out employment and educational opportunities difficult.
Things like anxiety and depression are common in individuals with autism, which can make daily life even more difficult to manage. Research also shows a high percentage of people with autism (50-70%) also experience attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Treating Autism
A multifaceted approach is typically taken when treating autism, using a unique treatment plan that best supports the needs of the individual. Autism treatment can include a combination of behavioral approaches, developmental approaches designed to improve things like speech and language, social approaches that aim to improve social skills, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and more. Some individuals may be given prescription medications, including antipsychotics, SSRIs, and others, to help manage their symptoms. Others may choose alternative treatments as an option for navigating the complexities of autism. Some of these include special diets, herbal supplements, mindfulness-based therapies, animal therapy, art therapy, and more, which are often used in combination with traditional treatments. Autism treatment, however, isn’t universally effective. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing autism, meaning many autistic individuals struggle with serious challenges throughout their entire lives. This makes it vital that anyone with ASD has access to information about any potentially effective treatments that may support the diverse needs of the wide-reaching autism spectrum.
The Potential Role of CBG in Autism
CBG (cannabigerol) is a lesser-known cannabinoid that’s emerged with some real promise for supporting autism. But what is CBG exactly, and what makes it different from well-known cannabinoids like THC and CBD? For one, without CBG, THC and CBD wouldn’t exist. CBG is commonly referred to as the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the precursor to THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. Largely understudied for years, it’s only recently that scientists have taken a deeper look at CBG, discovering more about its potential effects and how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and other receptors found throughout the body.Some research, for example, shows that CBG plays a neuroprotective role in the brain and may influence serotonin and dopamine regulation. Considering people with autism demonstrate brain abnormalities in both dopamine and serotonin systems, CBG may play a supportive role in managing some core ASD symptoms.Like CBD, GBG is non-intoxicating, which makes it appealing to individuals seeking relief from autism symptoms without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
Does CBG Support Symptoms of Autism?
While there’s not much out there about autism and CBG specifically, there are a handful of studies that support the use of cannabis and cannabinoids in the treatment of autism. A 2021 review, for example, highlighted that cannabis and cannabinoids contain “very promising” effects for supporting ASD symptoms, particularly anger, self-harm, anxiety, restlessness, sleep issues, and hyperactivity. A 2019 study that explored the “real-life experience of medical cannabis treatment in autism” found it to be potentially effective for symptom relief, especially seizures, tics, depression, restlessness, and anger attacks. Study authors also noted that 80% of parents of autistic children reported moderate to significant improvements in their child’s symptoms. The most recent study that supports the potential of CBG for autism support was published in 2023. It highlighted that when children with ASD are treated with medical cannabis, the levels of certain biological markers in their bodies change, which brings them closer to the levels found in typically developing (TD) children. This suggests cannabis may have a positive impact on ASD and that by measuring biomarkers, its impact could be better understood. The study tested biomarkers associated with both ASD and TD groups, specific cannabinoids, and non-cannabinoid plant compounds. It found that CBG, in particular, was associated with some biomarkers from each group. While CBG does show potential to support individuals with autism, more research is necessary to understand its efficacy and how it might work. That said, it’s believed that the potential role GBG plays in autism is linked to the ECS and other receptors throughout the body.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and Autism
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that work together to maintain homeostasis throughout the body. It’s responsible for regulating an array of physiological processes, including mood, cognition, appetite, immune response, and more. When functioning smoothly, the ECS promotes balanced health and wellbeing. ECS dysregulation, however, is linked to various neurological and psychiatric disorders, ADS included. Research suggests that children with ASD have lower endocannabinoid levels and lower levels of related compounds. Studies have also found a link between autism and dysregulation of CB2 receptors. These disruptions in ECS function among individuals with autism may explain some of the main symptoms associated with ASD, including social difficulties, problems with communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. Understanding the role of the ECS in autism offers insight into a better understanding of the disorder, as well as promise for the development of cannabinoid-based therapies that may help alleviate ASD symptoms.
How CBG Influences the ECS and Other Receptors
The influence of CBG on the ECS holds insight into its potential to support symptoms of autism. In a 2021 review, for example, researchers highlighted that CBG has a binding affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors. The study also found that CBG affects 5HT1A serotonin receptors, which play a large role in mood. Considering there’s a link between autism and elevated serotonin levels, 5HT1A regulation may mediate ASD symptoms. CBG also influences receptors that mediate the effects of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Together they make up a class of hormones known as catecholamines. Research shows that catecholamine dysregulation plays a major role in the core symptoms of autism.
Last Thoughts on CBD for Autism
After exploring the potential benefits of CBG for autism, it’s clear the cannabinoid contains some real promise when it comes to managing the complex world of ASD symptoms. CBG’s interaction with the ECS and other receptors associated with autism could potentially alleviate core symptoms such as social difficulties, communication barriers, and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. While more research is needed, the understanding of CBG’s potential role in autism is evolving, highlighting the need for continued studies that explore the potential of novel alternative therapeutic approaches in ASD treatment.
