Cannabis Sativa Oil Extract
Also known as: Cannabis sativa oil extract, hemp oil extract, CBD oil
Overview
Cannabis sativa oil extract is a botanical supplement derived from the seeds and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant. It contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds, primarily cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), along with terpenes and fatty acids. These compounds interact with the human endocannabinoid system, modulating various physiological processes. The extract is widely used for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, anxiety reduction, and seizure control. Its composition, particularly the ratio of CBD to THC, varies significantly depending on the source and extraction method. Research on Cannabis sativa oil extract, especially CBD-rich formulations, is maturing rapidly, with an increasing number of randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews supporting its use for specific conditions like epilepsy and chronic pain, while evidence for other applications is still emerging.
Benefits
Cannabis sativa oil extract offers several evidence-based benefits, with varying strengths of evidence. For pain relief, a 2021 meta-analysis of animal studies showed significant antinociceptive effects, indicating a moderate to large effect size. A 2015 systematic review found moderate evidence for cannabinoids in reducing chronic pain and spasticity in humans, though effect sizes were modest. The strongest evidence exists for CBD in treating epilepsy, particularly in severe forms. While potential anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects are suggested, clinical evidence for these is less robust. In veterinary medicine, specifically for canine osteoarthritis, a meta-analysis of three RCTs showed a non-significant reduction in pain scores, indicating very low certainty due to small sample sizes and potential bias. Overall, benefits are most pronounced in conditions with established cannabinoid receptor involvement, and clinical significance depends on the specific condition and extract formulation.
How it works
Cannabis sativa oil extract primarily exerts its effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system in the human body. Its main active compounds, cannabinoids like CBD and THC, modulate neurotransmitter release and immune responses through their interaction with cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system and are involved in pain modulation and seizure control, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells and play a role in anti-inflammatory processes. Beyond the ECS, cannabinoids also interact with other molecular targets, including transient receptor potential channels and serotonin receptors. The lipophilic nature of these compounds aids their absorption, particularly when consumed with fats, though oral bioavailability is generally low, ranging from approximately 6-20%.
Side effects
Cannabis sativa oil extract is generally well-tolerated, but its safety profile can vary depending on the dose and cannabinoid composition. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, include fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or weight. Less common side effects (1-5%) include liver enzyme elevations and somnolence. Rare but serious side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include hepatotoxicity, particularly with high doses of CBD, necessitating liver function monitoring. The extract can also interact with other medications, especially those metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially altering their efficacy or increasing their toxicity. Contraindications include liver disease, pregnancy, and use in pediatric populations without strict medical supervision. Caution is advised for elderly individuals and those on multiple medications due to increased risk of adverse effects or drug interactions.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of Cannabis sativa oil extract varies widely depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual's response. For epilepsy, clinical studies often utilize CBD dosages ranging from 5–20 mg/kg/day. For other indications like pain and anxiety, lower doses are typically employed. The maximum safe dose for CBD has been reported up to 1500 mg/day in some studies, but the risk of hepatotoxicity increases at higher doses, necessitating careful monitoring. Dosing is often divided throughout the day to maintain consistent plasma levels. Oral oil extracts are preferred for their bioavailability, which can be enhanced when consumed with fatty meals. While no specific cofactors are required, fat intake significantly improves absorption. It is crucial to start with a low dose and gradually titrate upwards while monitoring for efficacy and side effects.
FAQs
Is Cannabis sativa oil extract psychoactive?
The psychoactive potential depends on the THC content. CBD-dominant extracts are generally non-psychoactive, while extracts with significant THC can produce intoxicating effects.
How long until effects are seen?
The time to observe effects varies. Some individuals may feel effects within days, while others, especially for chronic conditions, may require several weeks of consistent use to notice benefits.
Is it safe long-term?
Generally, it is considered safe for long-term use, particularly CBD-rich extracts. However, for high doses, regular monitoring of liver function is advised due to the potential for liver enzyme elevations.
Can it cause addiction?
CBD itself is not considered addictive. However, Cannabis sativa oil extracts containing significant levels of THC do carry a potential for abuse and dependence.
Are there drug interactions?
Yes, there are potential drug interactions, especially with medications metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining with other drugs.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2023.1248417/pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated CBD for canine osteoarthritis, including 3 RCTs. It found a non-significant reduction in pain scores with very low certainty, highlighting the limited but emerging evidence in veterinary applications and the need for more robust studies.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8216112/ – This large systematic review and meta-analysis of 374 animal studies demonstrated a significant overall antinociceptive effect of cannabinoids for pain. The findings suggest robust pain-relieving properties in preclinical models, supporting further investigation in human clinical trials.
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2338251 – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed cannabinoids for medical use, including chronic pain and spasticity. It found moderate evidence for their effectiveness in reducing these conditions, though effect sizes were modest and heterogeneity among studies was noted, emphasizing the need for standardized research.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joim.13627 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on cannabidiol-associated hepatotoxicity. It identified rare but clinically relevant liver enzyme elevations and potential drug-induced liver injury at high doses, underscoring the importance of liver function monitoring during high-dose CBD therapy.
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