Medical uses of hemp
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Medical Uses of Hemp
Introduction to Hemp's Pharmacological Properties
Hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa) has been traditionally used for industrial purposes, but recent research highlights its potential health benefits. Hemp contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which contribute to its pharmacological properties1 2.
Hemp in Treating Gastrointestinal Disorders
Hemp has shown promise in treating gastrointestinal disorders. Clinical trials have demonstrated that hempseed pills, particularly in the Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation MaZiRenWan, can improve spontaneous bowel movements in individuals with functional constipation1. This suggests that hemp could be a valuable alternative for managing certain digestive issues.
Hemp's Role in Managing Epilepsy and Anxiety
Cannabidiol (CBD), a major component of hemp, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treating rare forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome5. Additionally, CBD has shown anxiolytic properties, making it a potential treatment for anxiety disorders2 5.
Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Properties
Hemp derivatives exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Studies have shown that CBD can reduce chronic pain and inflammation, making it a potential alternative to traditional pain management therapies2 8. This is particularly relevant for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Nutritional and Antioxidant Benefits
Hemp seeds and oil are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, and phenolic compounds. These components are effective in preventing common diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer2 6. Hemp sprouts are also noted for their high antioxidant content, which can contribute to overall health and wellness6.
Potential in Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases
Hemp's anti-neuroinflammatory properties suggest it could be beneficial in treating neurodegenerative diseases. Preclinical studies indicate that hemp derivatives may help in reducing neuroinflammation, which is a common feature of conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases1 2.
Hemp in Veterinary Medicine
Hemp is also gaining traction in veterinary medicine. CBD-enriched oils and hemp extracts are used to treat pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and anxiety in animals. These products are particularly useful when conventional therapies fail, providing a second-choice approach for managing various clinical conditions in pets2 3.
Conclusion
Hemp's diverse pharmacological properties make it a promising candidate for various medical applications. From treating gastrointestinal disorders and epilepsy to providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, hemp offers a wide range of health-promoting effects. However, more high-quality clinical research is needed to standardize hemp formulations and confirm its efficacy across different therapeutic areas. As research progresses, hemp could become a valuable addition to both human and veterinary medicine.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa’s pharmacological properties and health effects: A scoping review of current evidence
Hempseed pills show potential benefits for constipation, cannabis dependence, epilepsy, and anxiety disorders, but current evidence on their effectiveness is limited due to variation in test item formulation and experimental designs.
Systematic Review
Rigorous JournalHEMP IN VETERINARY MEDICINE: FROM FEED TO DRUG
Hemp and its derivatives show excellent nutritional and health-promoting properties in animal nutrition and therapeutics, with potential benefits for conditions like pain, inflammation, epilepsy, anxiety, and nausea.
Hemp in Veterinary Medicine: From Feed to Drug
Hemp and its derivatives show excellent nutritional and health-promoting properties in animal nutrition and therapeutics, with potential benefits for conditions like pain, inflammation, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and nausea.
Applications of hemp in textiles, paper industry, insulation and building materials, horticulture, animal nutrition, food and beverages, nutraceuticals, cosmetics and hygiene, medicine, agrochemistry, energy production and environment: a review
Hemp has traditional uses in textiles, paper, insulation, and building materials, but its potential for new applications in energy, food, and medicine is growing.
Highly CitedClinicians' Guide to Cannabidiol and Hemp Oils.
Cannabidiol (CBD) oils show promise for treating various conditions, particularly pain, but careful selection and regulation are crucial for safe and effective patient care.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedA Review of Hemp as Food and Nutritional Supplement.
Hemp, a valuable crop with numerous uses, offers health benefits and nutritional benefits when consumed as food or supplements, with CBD showing potent anxiolytic, spasmolytic, and anticonvulsant effects.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedIndustrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa) as an Emerging Source for Value-Added Functional Food Ingredients and Nutraceuticals
Industrial hemp shows potential as a valuable source for value-added functional food ingredients and nutraceuticals, with potential health benefits and current research gaps.
Highly CitedHemp in Animal Diets—Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol, found in hemp, shows potential in improving animal welfare and health by relieving pain and reducing inflammation in feed additives.
Rigorous JournalThe Seed of Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.): Nutritional Quality and Potential Functionality for Human Health and Nutrition
Hempseeds have high nutritional value and potential as dietary supplements for inflammatory and chronic-degenerative diseases, as well as for livestock feed and fortifying daily foods.
Literature Review
Very Rigorous JournalHighly Cited