Common Health and Digestive Issues
While hemp seeds and other hemp products are often well-tolerated, some individuals may experience adverse health effects, particularly with higher doses. The high fiber content in hemp seeds, for example, can be a primary cause of gastrointestinal distress.
Digestive Discomfort
- Gas and Bloating: Consuming large quantities of hemp seeds too quickly can lead to gas and bloating as your digestive system adjusts to the increased fiber.
- Diarrhea: In some cases, excessive intake can cause diarrhea.
- Nausea: Some users report feeling nauseous, especially when first trying hemp supplements.
Other Side Effects
Beyond digestive issues, some people may experience other general side effects, especially with CBD-rich hemp products.
- Fatigue and Drowsiness: Some individuals report feeling tired or drowsy, though this can also be considered a benefit for those using it for sleep.
- Changes in Appetite and Weight: Appetite changes, including a decrease, have been noted in some studies involving CBD.
- Dry Mouth: Also known as 'cotton mouth,' a dry sensation in the mouth is a possible, though more common, side effect of higher-THC products.
Risks of Unregulated Hemp-Derived Products
One of the most significant downsides stems from the largely unregulated market for hemp-derived products, especially those containing CBD. The 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp, provided insufficient regulatory oversight, leading to serious safety concerns.
Inaccurate Labeling and Contamination
Many products sold online or in non-regulated stores have inconsistent labeling, with the actual amount of cannabinoids not matching the dosage advertised. Worse, without proper testing, products can be contaminated with harmful substances.
- Pesticides and Heavy Metals: Since cannabis plants absorb substances from the soil, they may contain heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals if not grown and tested carefully.
- Novel Intoxicating Cannabinoids: The lack of regulation has led to manufacturers chemically converting cannabinoids like CBD into novel, intoxicating compounds (e.g., Delta-7 or Delta-10 THC) with unknown long-term health effects.
- Harmful Additives: Some manufacturers may add unapproved or synthetic substances to their products.
Danger of Misleading Products
Regulators have also raised alarms about intoxicating hemp-derived products marketed in ways that appeal to children, such as mimicking popular snack foods and candy. The inaccurate labeling increases the risk of accidental ingestion, which has led to a rise in poison control calls.
Potential Drug Interactions
Hemp and its derivatives, particularly CBD, can interact with a wide range of medications by inhibiting liver enzymes responsible for drug metabolism. This can lead to dangerously high levels of certain medications in the body. If you are taking any of the following, you should consult a doctor before using hemp products:
- Blood Thinners: Including warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).
- Heart Medications: Cardiac glycosides like digoxin and medications for high blood pressure.
- Anti-Seizure Drugs: Such as clobazam (Onfi) and others.
- Antidepressants and Antipsychotics: Including tricyclic antidepressants and specific SSRIs.
- Immunosuppressants: Like cyclosporine and tacrolimus.
- Certain Antibiotics and Antifungal Agents.
Workplace and Drug Testing Concerns
Despite containing only trace amounts of THC, some hemp products can still cause a positive drug test. Factors like the product's quality, the amount consumed, and the sensitivity of the test can influence the result. Athletes and those in professions with regular drug screenings should be particularly cautious. While it's unlikely for properly labeled hemp seeds to cause a positive test, the safest course of action is to abstain from all hemp products for several weeks prior to a test.
Environmental and Cultivation Concerns
Although often promoted for its sustainability, large-scale industrial hemp cultivation can have its own environmental footprint. Issues include:
- Water Usage: Depending on the region and climate, hemp can require substantial water for irrigation.
- Energy Consumption: Indoor hemp cultivation can have a significant energy footprint due to intensive lighting and HVAC systems.
- Pesticide Misuse: In the absence of federal regulation, pesticide misuse can threaten wildlife and potentially contaminate the product.
Comparison of Regulated and Unregulated Hemp/Cannabis Products
| Feature | Regulated (State Dispensaries) | Unregulated (Online, Retailers) |
|---|---|---|
| Purity Testing | Rigorous third-party testing for contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides. | Often lacking or unreliable; certificates of analysis may be fraudulent or nonexistent. |
| Labeling Accuracy | Required to accurately list cannabinoid content (THC/CBD) and dosage. | Frequently inaccurate, with actual content varying significantly from the label. |
| Safety Oversight | Adheres to state-mandated safety regulations for production and processing. | Minimal to no oversight, increasing risk of harmful byproducts and improper synthesis. |
| Vulnerable Populations | Strict regulations regarding marketing and packaging to avoid appeal to children. | Products sometimes designed to resemble snacks and candy, leading to accidental ingestion. |
Conclusion: Weighing the Risks and Benefits
Hemp is a remarkably useful plant, offering nutritional benefits through seeds and potential therapeutic effects through cannabinoids like CBD. However, consumers must exercise caution. The primary risks come not from the plant itself, but from the unregulated market for hemp-derived supplements. Inconsistent labeling, potential contamination, and dangerous drug interactions are serious concerns. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding hemp supplements to your routine, especially if you take other medications. For products with higher cannabinoid content, sourcing from reputable, third-party tested companies is essential to mitigate the significant downsides and ensure safety and quality.
