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Hemp Flower Extract

Also known as: Hemp extract, CBD-rich hemp extract, Cannabis sativa extract, Cannabidiol (CBD)

Overview

Hemp flower extract is derived from the flowers of the *Cannabis sativa* plant, specifically cultivated for its high cannabidiol (CBD) and low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. This extract is non-psychoactive, distinguishing it from other cannabis products that contain higher levels of THC. It is widely used for its potential health benefits, including pain relief and anxiety reduction. Currently, research is in the emerging stages; however, preliminary studies suggest its therapeutic potential, particularly in chronic pain management and as an alternative to opioids. The extract contains not only CBD but other cannabinoids and terpenes, which may contribute to its effects. The research quality is variable, with a need for more high-quality clinical trials to substantiate various claims and applications.

Benefits

Evidence supports several key benefits of hemp flower extract, particularly rich in CBD, including pain relief, reduced opioid use, and improvement in sleep quality. In one study, 53% of chronic pain patients noted a reduction or elimination of opioid use within eight weeks of using CBD-rich hemp extract. Additional evidence points towards its effectiveness in managing anxiety disorders and certain forms of epilepsy, although further research is necessary. The positive effects on sleep quality and pain management are particularly notable among chronic pain patients, with significant improvements seen within four to eight weeks of consistent use. However, effect sizes can differ between studies, indicating variability in individual responses.

How it works

Hemp flower extract primarily interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, modulating pain perception and mood regulation through its influence on CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD works indirectly, affecting various biological pathways, including neurotransmitter activity and inflammation processes. This multifaceted interaction helps explain its potential analgesic, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory effects, although bioavailability may vary depending on the method of administration – sublingual routes typically offer higher bioavailability than oral consumption.

Side effects

Hemp flower extract is generally regarded as safe, although some users may experience side effects. Common adverse effects that occur in more than 5% of users include dry mouth, drowsiness, and appetite changes. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include nausea and diarrhea, with rare occurrences of severe allergic reactions (less than 1%). Caution is advised when used alongside blood thinners and other liver-metabolized medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are advised against use due to limited safety data. Additionally, caution is warranted for children and individuals with liver conditions, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare providers before use.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of hemp flower extract varies based on individual conditions and responses. A typical starting point for many is around 25 mg of CBD, escalated gradually based on effectiveness. For managing pain or anxiety, daily doses can range from 25 mg to 100 mg, with some individuals tolerating higher doses up to 200 mg. It is essential to consider the timing of administration—consistent daily use is advantageous for chronic issues. The absorption rate can differ, with sublingual products showing higher bioavailability than edibles. While no maximum safe dose is firmly established, users should approach the higher limits with caution.

FAQs

Is hemp extract psychoactive?

No, hemp extract, particularly CBD, is non-psychoactive and does not produce a 'high' like THC.

How should I choose a hemp extract product?

Select products from reputable sources with clear labeling of CBD content and third-party testing for purity.

Can I take hemp extract with other medications?

Consult your healthcare provider, especially if you're on blood thinners or medications metabolized by the liver.

How long does it take to feel the benefits?

Many users report improvements in pain and sleep quality within weeks of consistent use.

What are the side effects of hemp extract?

Common side effects include dry mouth and drowsiness, with rare severe allergic reactions. Consult a healthcare provider for concerns.

Research Sources

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00325481.2019.1685298 – A prospective cohort study involving 131 chronic pain patients showed that 53% reduced or eliminated opioid use within eight weeks of CBD-rich hemp extract use, with significant sleep quality improvements. However, the study's design limits causative conclusions.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33614949/ – A systematic review examined various studies, supporting potential benefits of CBD for pain relief and reducing anxiety, but noted the necessity for more high-quality research due to variability in study designs and outcomes.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0245471 – This review outlines that hemp and its derivatives may provide health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but underscores the lack of dedicated clinical data.