Phytocannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are plant-derived compounds primarily found in Cannabis sativa. There is growing scientific evidence supporting their interaction with the GABAergic system. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and its proper function is crucial for regulating neuronal excitability and preventing anxiety, seizures, and other neurological disorders.

Research has shown that certain phytocannabinoids can modulate GABAergic transmission. For example, CBD has been observed in preclinical studies to enhance GABA-A receptor activity, leading to potential anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects (Bakas et al., 2017; Pharmacological Research). THC and other cannabinoids may indirectly influence GABA release via presynaptic cannabinoid receptors (CB1), which are present on GABAergic neurons (Katona & Freund, 2012; Nature Reviews Neuroscience).

While much of the evidence comes from animal studies and in vitro experiments, some clinical data (particularly regarding CBD) support the use of phytocannabinoids in conditions associated with altered GABAergic signaling, such as epilepsy and anxiety disorders. However, more research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms and to determine the clinical efficacy and safety profiles for supporting the GABA system specifically.