Spilling the Tea on Hemp-The Other Herb
Humans have been harvesting Hemp plants for over 4,000 years for the natural relief it can bring to all kinds of ailments. Hemp tea is a type of herbal tea made from the leaves, flowers, and sometimes the seeds of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). It is different from marijuana tea, as hemp contains low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
Hemp tea is known for its potential health benefits and relaxing properties. It is rich in cannabinoids, such as CBD (cannabidiol), which is non-psychoactive and has been associated with various therapeutic effects. Hemp, specifically hemp-derived CBD (cannabidiol), has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.
In December of 2018, the 2018 Farm Bill was signed into law. It removed hemp, defined as cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) and derivatives of cannabis with extremely low concentrations of the psychoactive compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis), from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). However, the final Farm Bill left the responsibility to legalize hemp to the states. Nevertheless, the Farm Bill allowed the full range of Hemp’s potential health and wellness benefits to be explored for the first time since being banned.
While research is ongoing and more studies are needed to fully understand its effects, some potential health benefits associated with hemp include:
• Relaxation and stress relief: Hemp tea is often consumed for its calming and relaxing effects. CBD is believed to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood and stress response.
• Pain relief: CBD has been studied for its potential analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It may help alleviate chronic pain, arthritis, migraines, and other conditions by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system and reducing inflammation.
• Sleep aid: Hemp tea may help promote better sleep due to its relaxing properties. It can be enjoyed as a bedtime beverage to help induce sleep and improve sleep quality.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: CBD has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Digestive support: Some people find that hemp tea can help soothe digestive discomfort, reduce nausea, and improve appetite.
• Antioxidant effects: Hemp tea contains antioxidants that can help protect the body against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Tea preparation
When preparing hemp tea, you can steep the leaves, flowers, or seeds in hot water, similar to traditional tea. Some people prefer to add other herbs or flavors to enhance the taste. Hemp tea can be enjoyed at anytime and has become a favorite addition to bedtime routines. It's important to choose high-quality hemp products from reputable sources to ensure safety and legality (check out VIP Wellness Tea™ Organic Hemp Hibiscus here).
Dr. T's Tea Talk Tips:
It's important to note that while these potential benefits are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of hemp-derived CBD for different health conditions. Additionally, individual responses to CBD can vary, and it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplement or treatment regimen.
It's also worth noting that regulations regarding the sale and use of hemp products can vary from state to state and country to country. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations in your specific location before using or purchasing hemp tea. Additionally, if you have any specific health concerns or questions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Lastly, hemp is not marijuana and does not get you high! Try a cup of hemp tea 30-60 minutes before bedtime and see for yourself!
Sip Well,
Dr. T
Resources
Rupasinghe HPV, Davis A, Kumar SK, Murray B, Zheljazkov VD. Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa) as an Emerging Source for Value-Added Functional Food Ingredients and Nutraceuticals. Molecules. 2020 Sep 7;25(18):4078. doi: 10.3390/molecules25184078. PMID: 32906622; PMCID: PMC7571072.
Andre C.M., Hausman J.F., Guerriero G. Cannabis sativa: The plant of the thousand and one molecules. Front. Plant Sci. 2016;7:19. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2016.00019.
Cather JC, Cather JC. Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent). 2020 Jul 6;33(3):376-379. doi: 10.1080/08998280.2020.1775437. PMID: 32675954; PMCID: PMC7340472.
Hildebrand, R.L. “Hemp and Cannabidiol: What is a Medicine?” Missouri Medicine: The Journal of the Missouri State Medical Association, 2018, vol.115, issue 4, pp.306-309.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither VIP Wellness Tea™, its associates, nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.