Distinguishing Types of Drinkable Hemp
Understanding what happens when you drink hemp requires distinguishing between its primary consumable forms: hemp seed products and hemp extracts containing cannabinoids like CBD. While both are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, they differ dramatically in their composition, purpose, and effects. The core difference lies in the source material: hemp seeds versus the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the plant.
The Effects of Drinking Hemp Seed Products
When you drink beverages made from hemp seeds, you are primarily consuming a nutritional supplement rich in healthy fats and protein. Products like cold-pressed hemp seed oil and hemp milk fall into this category. These contain no significant cannabinoids like CBD or THC.
Key nutritional contributions include:
- Essential Fatty Acids: Hemp seeds contain a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Complete Protein Source: As a plant-based food, hemp provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source ideal for muscle repair and general wellness.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Drinking hemp seed products can boost your intake of vitamins like E and B, and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc.
- Dietary Fiber: Some hemp seed products, particularly those with the hull intact or made from milled seeds, provide dietary fiber that supports digestive health.
The Effects of Drinking Hemp Extracts (CBD)
Hemp-infused drinks contain extracts from the leaves, stalks, and flowers of the hemp plant, which are rich in cannabinoids, predominantly CBD. These are not psychoactive but can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system.
Key potential effects of CBD-infused drinks include:
- Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Anxiety: CBD is widely studied for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. Consumers report a calming effect, which can help manage daily stress.
- Aids Better Sleep: By calming the central nervous system, CBD beverages may support healthier, more restful sleep patterns, and do not contain caffeine like many teas.
- Supports Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Many studies suggest CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with chronic pain and inflammation, though more human research is needed for definitive proof.
- Enhanced Bioavailability: Modern production techniques often use nano-emulsification to make cannabinoids water-soluble, which allows for faster and more consistent absorption than traditional edibles.
Comparison: Hemp Seed Drinks vs. CBD-Infused Drinks
| Feature | Hemp Seed Drinks (e.g., milk, oil) | CBD-Infused Drinks (e.g., seltzers) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Seeds of the hemp plant. | Flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant. |
| Primary Purpose | Nutritional supplement for daily intake of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. | Potential wellness and therapeutic benefits, such as relaxation and anti-inflammatory support. |
| Cannabinoid Content | Naturally contains no significant cannabinoids like CBD or THC. | Contains cannabinoids, primarily CBD, with less than 0.3% THC. |
| Psychoactive Effects | None. | None. |
| Flavor Profile | Typically nutty and earthy. | Often flavored with fruits or botanicals to mask the natural hemp taste. |
| Onset of Effects | Primarily digestive and nutritional benefits over time. | Rapid onset (10-20 minutes) due to emulsification for quicker absorption. |
| Regulation | FDA considers hulled hemp seed, hemp seed protein powder, and hemp seed oil as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). | Less regulated, with wide variation in dosage and purity among products. Should be third-party tested. |
Potential Downsides and Safety Considerations
While generally safe, drinking hemp products is not without its considerations, particularly for those with existing health conditions or taking other medications.
- Drug Interactions: CBD can interact with certain medications by competing for the same liver enzymes that break down drugs like blood thinners and anti-epileptics. Always consult a doctor if you take other medications.
- Dosage Inconsistency: The lack of FDA regulation for non-prescription CBD products means that dosage and purity can be unreliable. Consumers should look for reputable brands with third-party testing and a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
- Digestive Issues: Ingesting high-fat hemp products like hemp oil can sometimes cause mild digestive problems, including diarrhea or appetite changes, especially when first introduced to the diet.
- Contamination Risks: Poorly sourced hemp can absorb heavy metals and pesticides from the soil. Choosing reputable brands that test for contaminants is vital. Synthetically derived cannabinoids also carry significant risks due to potential harmful byproducts.
- Allergies: Though rare, allergies to hemp are possible, particularly for those with sensitivities to cannabis or sesame seeds.
Conclusion
Drinking hemp offers a spectrum of effects, from simple nutritional fortification to potential therapeutic benefits, depending entirely on the product consumed. Hemp seed-based drinks are a safe, nutritious source of protein, healthy fats, and minerals, while CBD-infused drinks can offer non-psychoactive effects like relaxation and anti-inflammatory support. The most important action for any consumer is to understand the distinction between these product types, research the reputation and testing of a specific product, and consult a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness. By staying informed, you can responsibly incorporate hemp beverages into your wellness routine. For more information on health and wellness, visit Harvard Health Publishing's resource on CBD.
