Hemp Gummies and CBG: A Rising Plant-Based Alternative for Stress Relief

Exploring Non-Traditional Paths to Stress Management

Many people are now turning to natural options to manage their stress levels—particularly plant-based supplements. One product gaining traction is hemp gummies. These jelly-like edibles are being embraced by health-conscious individuals for their convenience and potential mood-enhancing properties. But what exactly makes them so appealing?

Why Some Are Moving Away From Pharmaceuticals

Doctors typically prescribe medications to treat stress and anxiety, but these drugs often come with unwanted side effects. According to Richmond.com, many individuals are turning to hemp-derived supplements as safer, more natural alternatives. Hemp gummies are especially popular among those seeking a holistic lifestyle. They don’t contain THC, the compound responsible for marijuana’s high, and they are legally available in many states without a prescription.

Another benefit? Simplicity. Unlike tinctures or capsules, gummies come in pre-measured doses and require no prep. You can take them at home, at work, or even while commuting—just like any other vitamin.

How Hemp Works in the Body

The main reason behind hemp gummies’ effectiveness lies in their interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a complex network in the body that regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and stress. Hemp extract may help the ECS maintain balance, potentially aiding the body in staying grounded during periods of tension or fatigue.

Additionally, many hemp gummies incorporate soothing ingredients such as chamomile, lemon balm, and magnesium. These natural additives are well-known for their calming properties, making the gummies even more attractive to those needing help unwinding after a long day.

Science Is Starting to Catch Up

While more research is still needed, the existing body of evidence around hemp’s stress-reducing properties is growing. Notably, a recent breakthrough in cannabinoid science involves a compound called Cannabigerol (CBG).

According to a press release from Washington State University, CBG was shown in a clinical trial to significantly reduce anxiety and stress levels in participants. The study, led by Dr. Carrie Cuttler, a psychology professor at WSU, found that 20 mg of hemp-derived CBG decreased anxiety ratings at 20, 45, and 60 minutes after ingestion, compared to a placebo.

The trial, conducted in collaboration with researchers from UCLA, used a double-blind, placebo-controlled method involving 34 participants. Surprisingly, CBG was found not only to reduce stress and anxiety but also to enhance memory performance. Participants who took CBG recalled more words during memory tests than those who took the placebo. The study found no signs of cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, or intoxicating effects—unlike THC.

The research, published in Scientific Reports, indicates CBG may offer a new, non-intoxicating pathway for stress and anxiety management, although researchers caution that additional studies are needed.

Outlook: Promising, But Not a Miracle Drug

Experts, including Dr. Cuttler, are careful to manage expectations. While the results are encouraging, she warns against prematurely labeling CBG as a cure-all. “It’s new and exciting, but replication and further research are crucial,” she said. Upcoming trials plan to include physiological measurements like heart rate, cortisol levels, and extend testing to non-cannabis users.

Until more comprehensive research is available, hemp gummies—particularly those incorporating cannabinoids like CBG—remain a compelling, low-risk option for those seeking natural ways to manage stress without relying on pharmaceuticals.