Search Results (148)

Projects integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are essential to interdisciplinary research. This study presents a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) methodology with the primary objective of designing, constructing, and validating a functional cannabinoid extraction device. To inform the device’s drying parameters, the dehydration kinetics of female hemp buds or flowering buds (FHB) were first analyzed using infrared drying at 100 °C for different durations. The plants were cultivated and harvested in accordance with good agricultural practices using Dinamed CBD Autoflowering seeds. The FHB were harvested and prepared by manually separating them from the stems and leaves. Six 5 g samples were prepared, each with a slab geometry of varying surface area and thickness. Two of these samples were ground: one into a fine powder and the other into a coarse powder. Mathematical fits were obtained for each resulting curve using either an exponential decay model or the logarithmic equation $y\left(t\right)=A\left(e^{-kt}\right)+y_0$ calculate the equilibrium moisture (m_E). The Moisture Rate (MR) was calculated, and by modelling with the logarithmic equation, the constant k and the effective diffusivity (Deff) were determined with the analytical solution of Fick’s second law. The Deff values (ranging from 10⁻⁷ to 10⁻⁵) were higher than previously reported. The coarsely ground powder sample yielded the highest k and Deff values and was selected for oil extraction. The device was then designed using Quality Function Deployment (QFD), specifically the House of Quality (HoQ) matrix, to systematically translate user requirements into technical specifications. A 200 g sample of coarsely ground, dehydrated FHB was prepared for ethanol extraction. Chemical results obtained by Liquid Chromatography coupled with Photodiode Array Detection (LC-PDA) revealed the presence of THC, CBN, CBC, and CBG. The extraction device design was validated using previous results showing the presence of CBD and CBDA. The constructed device successfully extracted cannabinoids, including Δ9-THC, CBG, CBC, and CBN, from coarsely ground FHB, validating the integrated STEM approach. This work demonstrates a practical framework for developing accessible agro-technical devices through interdisciplinary collaboration. Full article

Southern blight, a disease caused by the soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii (S. rolfsii), is favored by the hot and humid conditions of the southeastern United States, posing a significant challenge to hemp production in Tennessee. Black plastic mulch (BPM), commonly used for weed control, can exacerbate the disease. There is limited information on the effects of straw mulch (SM), known to moderate soil temperatures and moisture, or planting time in disease management. Field studies were conducted in 2022 and 2023 at Tennessee State University to evaluate the effects of planting time, mulch type, and biofungicide application on disease severity, weed suppression, plant growth, and cannabinoid production in floral hemp. SM significantly reduced southern blight severity and moderated soil temperature, while BPM increased both. Early planting reduced disease severity by 28% in 2022 and by 53% and 34% in 2023 for first and second planting dates. SM lowered soil temperature by 6%, enhanced chlorophyll content by 30%, and increased plant height and biomass by 20% and 25%, respectively. Early planting increased cannabidiol (CBD) concentration by 0.4%, while late planting increased tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by 0.25%. These findings demonstrate that integrating straw mulch with early planting can reduce disease severity, stabilize soil microclimate, and enhance hemp productivity under warm, humid conditions. Full article

Exogenous application of methyl jasmonate (MeJ) at different concentrations (0, 1, 10, and 100 µM) during flowering was studied for its impact on phytochemical profile, antioxidant activity, and biomass accumulation in hemp inflorescences of the monoecious cv. Codimono. MeJ treatments had no significant effect on CBD levels, while a 23–54% decrease in total terpene levels was observed in plants treated with 1 and 10 μM MeJ. In particular, MeJ treatments reduced β-caryophyllene and α-humulene levels by 24–43%, α-bisabolol levels by 30–40%, and α-pinene, β-pinene, and β-myrcene levels by 32–61%. By contrast, MeJ treatments had a positive effect on all other classes of phytochemicals analyzed. Plants treated with 100 μM MeJ experienced the highest increases in total flavonoid and phenolic acid levels (+42% and +50%, respectively). In particular, this treatment increased orientin, vitexin, and isovitexin levels by 36–52%, while ferulic acid level increased by 103%. Treatments with 10 and 100 µM MeJ resulted in the highest increases in total carotenoid and tocopherol levels (+41% and +33%, respectively). In particular, lutein, β-carotene, and α-tocopherol levels increased by 44%, 35%, and 36%, respectively. In line with these findings, total antioxidant activity increased by 26% following treatment with 100 μM MeJ and by 13% following the other two treatments. Interestingly, MeJ treatments did not affect plant growth and biomass accumulation in the inflorescences. This implies higher yields for those phytochemicals whose concentrations were increased by MeJ. In summary, our results indicate that hemp plants treated with 100 μM MeJ represent an interesting source of phytochemicals, fiber, and biomass. These characteristics make them suitable for multiple industrial applications and enhance both the economic and health-related value of this crop. Full article

Cannabis and its derivatives are increasingly popular. The public perception of “cannabis” is commonly related to abuse potential with no sharp distinction to “marijuana”, “cannabinoids”, “hemp”, and cannabis derivatives. Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—rich cannabis (“marijuana”), needs to be distinguished from hemp and cannabidiol (CBD)—rich; the former is psychotomimetic, while the latter is not, and it is increasingly used as a “health product”; the phytochemical composition makes the difference. However, this is still inadequately addressed. Without a detailed characterization of the components and effects conclusions cannot be generalized and are only applicable to the product used. Cannabis varieties have a highly variable phytochemical composition; the effects cannot always be attributed solely to the “main cannabinoids.” Growth conditions and processing methods also have a significant influence on the properties of the final product, even when the same cannabis variety is used. Therefore, the few comparative studies between extracts and the corresponding pure cannabinoids often produce conflicting results, as numerous preclinical and clinical examples demonstrate. They also show how little attention is paid to the phytochemical profile, even in scientific publications. Both in scientific research and consumer products, the phytochemical profile beyond the main cannabinoids should be disclosed in detail, especially since new cannabis products containing semi-synthetic CBD derivatives have recently entered the market. Full article

Sore throat, commonly associated with pharyngitis and tonsillitis, is primarily caused by bacterial pathogens. Conventional therapies rely on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs; however, concerns about adverse effects, antibiotic resistance, and drug interactions have encouraged the search for alternative remedies. Cannabis sativa L. (CS) has demonstrated potential in relieving sore throat and inflammation, while propolis, a bee-derived natural product, exhibits notable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aimed to investigate the enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of combining CS and propolis extracts (PE). Results found that CS and PE exhibited antibacterial effects against Streptococcus pyogenes DMST 4369, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027. Their combination produced additive antibacterial effects against S. pyogenes and S. aureus. Cannabidiol (CBD) was identified as an active antibacterial constituent against S. pyogenes. Additionally, the PE-CBD in CS solution combination at concentration 625:0.125 µg/mL significantly reduced NO production and suppressed proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated macrophages. This study highlights the enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential of the C. sativa and propolis combination, emphasizing the need to verify synergistic effects and determine the appropriate ratio for rational product development. Further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of action, particularly the anti-inflammatory pathways, in animal models. In addition, studies on hepatotoxicity should be conducted to ensure safety. Full article

This study evaluates fermented raw-dried pork snacks enriched with plant-based functional ingredients—lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), rosemary essential oil (Rosmarinus officinalis), rosehip (Rosa canina), sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), and a hemp-derived CBD oil (Cannabis sativa)—produced from pork, with addition of cow sour whey and salt. We use “human grade” descriptively (compliance with human-food hygiene/microbiological requirements; no AAFCO/labeling claim). Functional enrichment modulated viscoelasticity (G′, G″), texture, water activity, density, and color. CBD oil softened the structure, increasing chewability and springiness, whereas TPA metrics were analyzed only for variants within the instrument range (control, CBD, rosehip). All variants reached a_w < 0.90 and tested negative for Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes in 25 g. Safety inferences are limited to a_w- and pathogen-based criteria. Sea buckthorn showed the highest a_w, while rosehip displayed the highest total viable counts (~10⁸ CFU/g); microbiological results are reported descriptively without inferential statistics. Density was the highest for lion’s mane and rosehip. Proximate composition varied (e.g., higher protein with rosemary oil; higher fat/moisture with sea buckthorn) but was assessed by FoodScan™ 2 as screening-level data. Overall, selected botanicals enabled targeted structure–texture modulation without breaching predefined safety targets under the tested conditions. Full article

Cannabidiol (CBD) has garnered interest in its potential antioxidant properties in skin care. This review synthesizes the current literature exploring CBD’s role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory cosmetic ingredient and its impact on skin health. CBD exhibits antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and mitigating inflammation, all of which contribute to aging and skin conditions like acne and dermatitis. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and other cellular pathways to bolster antioxidant defenses in skin cells. The search engines were Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed. The search was performed using the main keywords “liposomal CBD and keratinocytes”, “antioxidant properties of CBD and keratinocytes”, “anti-inflammatory activity of CBD and keratinocytes”, “CBD and cosmetics”, “CBD and skin care products”, and “CBD and cosmetic products regulation” for the period 2018–2025. The period for the search of the literature was chosen based on the legalization of medical cannabis. Its non-psychoactive nature and favorable safety profile make CBD a compelling candidate for inclusion in skin care formulations seeking natural and effective antioxidant solutions. As consumer demand for botanical-based skin care rises, CBD stands out for its promising therapeutic benefits and potential applications in anti-aging and dermatological treatments. Despite its benefits, using CBD in cosmetics is not without its challenges. The varying legal status of CBD in various jurisdictions is confusing to both the cosmetic industry and consumers. Some jurisdictions allow CBD to be derived from hemp, while others may prohibit its use. The legal and regulatory status of CBD is a constantly changing matter. The purpose of the article is to review the liposomal forms of encapsulated CBD to increase its percutaneous absorption and therefore its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effect on keratinocytes. Liposomal CBD firstly bypasses the problems of insolubility of free radicals and secondly protects it from various exogenous oxidizing agents, while maintaining its activity. CBD is a valuable antioxidant agent in skin care science, suggesting avenues for further research and product development. Full article

Industrial hemp phytochemistry is shaped by genetics and agronomic management, yet field studies integrating both remain scarce. The combined effects of cultivar, planting density, fertilization, and flowering time on cannabinoids, terpenes, and antioxidants in Cannabis sativa L. were evaluated. A field trial was conducted in Mallorca (2023) using two cultivars (Enectaliana, Enectarol) grown at two densities (Sector 1 ≈ 2.3 plants m⁻²; Sector 2 ≈ 4.6 plants m⁻²), with sampling from flowering onset (week 0) to week 5. In Enectaliana, fertilization (with vs. without) was tested. Enectaliana displayed CBD/CBDVA-dominated profiles, whereas Enectarol was CBG-predominant; THC remained consistently low. Effects were assessed via three-way ANOVA (Density × Time × Cultivar; Density × Time × Fertilization). The cultivar and time explained most of the variance, with interactions modulating magnitudes without altering effect hierarchies. Planting density acted as a second-order modulator, modulating concentrations without reversing cultivar rankings. Terpenes peaked early and generally declined as flowering progressed, with cultivar-dependent trajectories. Total phenolics and antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP assays) increased steadily until week 5, with density and treatment effects. In Enectaliana, fertilization effects were selective: ABTS values tended to be higher in unfertilized plants at the end of the cycle, FRAP results showed a density interaction, and cannabinoids exhibited non-linear responses to nutrient supply. Full article

An efficient method for the simultaneous extraction of cannabinoids and terpenes from the leaves and flowers of Cannabis sativa L. (var. Felina 32) was developed. Extraction parameters, including solvent type, temperature, and pressure, were optimized, revealing that hexane enables high-yield cannabinoid recovery. Moreover, terpene composition was influenced by the extraction temperature. Two extracts with the highest cannabinoid content were selected for further study, Feli1 (64.76%) and Feli2 (61.32%), both obtained using hexane. Feli1, extracted at –55 °C, had a monoterpene-to-sesquiterpene ratio of 16.7% to 83.3%, while Feli2, extracted at 25 °C, showed a higher monoterpene content (25.2%) and lower sesquiterpene content (74.8%). Both extracts demonstrated selective antiproliferative activity against cancer cell lines, with reduced toxicity toward normal breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A). Feli2 showed slightly stronger antiproliferative effects, likely due to its higher monoterpene content. At low concentrations, both extracts stimulated the growth of MV4-11 leukemia and MDA-MB-468 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, while higher concentrations led to growth inhibition. These stimulatory effects were weaker than those observed for pure Δ⁹-THC or CBD. Full article

Dramatic shifts in state-level cannabis laws (CLs) and federal hemp regulations have resulted in increased availability and use of cannabis and cannabidiol (CBD) products throughout the US, with unknown implications for the youth. Youth with mood disorders represent a vulnerable population that is more likely to use cannabis and CBD and is at elevated risk for experiencing cannabis-related adverse health outcomes. This multisite study characterized attitudes, health perceptions, and behaviors related to cannabis and CBD use among US youth receiving mood disorder treatment and their parents, and assessed whether attitudinal differences varied as a function of respondent group and state-level CL status. Anonymous surveys were completed by 84 youths and 66 parents recruited from six child mood clinics providing care to patients living in eleven US states with variable CLs. Covariate-adjusted regressions were run using respondent group and state-level CL status as between-subject factors. Most youths (76% and 74%) and parents (65% and 68%) endorsed believing that cannabis and CBD, respectively, are safe and effective treatments for mental health conditions, and that regular use of these products reduces depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors. Intergenerational differences in cannabis-related attitudes and health perceptions were observed, with some associations varying as a function of state-level CL. Among the youth, male sex and positive cannabis expectancies and attitudes were associated with higher cannabis use intentions. Findings can inform prevention and public health messaging efforts. Full article

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the mucosa that gives rise to a disrupted epithelial morphology. Persistent or recurrent inflammation and the debilitating nature of the associated symptoms make treatment of UC challenging. Cannabinoids derived from Cannabis sativa L. have been used for treatment of gastrointestinal disorders due to the wide-ranging therapeutic benefits of these compounds. Methods: We evaluated a commercial hemp extract, high in cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD), as a novel treatment for UC symptoms using the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) model in mice. Hemp extract was administered via two different routes of administration, intraperitoneal (i.p) and oral (p.o). Results: Specifically, we observed that cannabinoid treatment reduced damage to the colonic epithelium. We also observed that CBG/CBD rich hemp extracts help reduce pain-related responses in these animals. Conclusions: Together, the data suggest that cannabinoid administration has the potential to be an effective alternate therapeutic option for UC management. Full article

Numerous studies on specific cannabis compounds (cannabinoids and phenolic acids) have demonstrated their therapeutic potential, with their administration methods remaining a key research focus. Transdermal drug delivery (TDD) systems are gaining attention due to their advantages, such as painless administration, controlled release, direct absorption into the bloodstream, and its ability to bypass hepatic metabolism. The thin films obtained via pulsed laser deposition consist of micro- and nanoparticles capable of migrating through skin pores upon contact. This study investigates the interaction of phenolic compounds in hemp seeds with pulsed laser beams. The main goal is to achieve the ablation and deposition of these compounds as thin films suitable for TDD applications. The other key objective is optimizing laser energy to enhance the industrial feasibility of this method. Thin layers were deposited on glass and hemp fabric using dual pulsed laser (DPL) ablation on a compressed hemp seed target held in a stainless steel ring. The target was irradiated for 30 min with two synchronized pulsed laser beams, each with parameters of 30 mJ, 532 nm, pulse width of 10 ns, and a repetition rate of 10 Hz. Each beam had an angle of incidence with the target surface of 45°, and the angle between the two beams was also 45°. To improve laser absorption, two approaches were used: (1) HS-DPL/glass and HS-DPL/hemp fabric, in which a portion of the stainless steel ring was included in the irradiated area, and (2) HST-DPL/glass and HST-DPL/hemp fabric—hemp seeds were mixed with turmeric powder, which is known to improve laser interaction and biocompatibility. The FTIR and Micro-FTIR spectroscopy (ATR) performed on thin films compared to the target material confirmed the presence of hemp-derived phenolic compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), ferulic acid, and coumaric acid, along with other functional groups such as amides. The ATR spectra have been validated against Gaussian 6 numerical simulations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and substance transfer tests revealed the microgranular structure of thin films. Through the analyzes carried out, the following were highlighted: spherical structures (0.3–2 μm) for HS-DPL/glass, HS-DPL/hemp fabric, HST-DPL/glass, and HST-DPL/hemp fabric; larger spherical structures (8–13 μm) for HS-DPL/glass and HST-DPL/glass; angular, amorphous-like structures (~3.5 μm) for HS-DPL/glass; and crystalline-like structures (0.6–1.3 μm) for HST-DPL/glass. Microparticle transfer from thin films on the hemp fabric to the filter paper at a human body temperature (37 °C) confirmed their suitability for TDD applications, aligning with the “whole plant medicine” or “entourage effect” concept. Granular, composite, thin films were successfully developed, capable of releasing microparticles upon contact with a surface whose temperature is 37 °C, specific to the human body. Each of the microparticles in the thin films obtained with the DPL technique contains phenolic compounds (cannabinoids and phenolic acids) comparable to those in hemp seeds, effectively acting as “microseeds.” The obtained films are viable for TDD applications, while the DPL technique ensures industrial scalability due to its low laser energy requirements. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid touted for a variety of medical benefits, including alleviation of anxiety. While legalization of hemp-derived products in the United States (containing ≤0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol [d9-THC] by weight) has led to a rapid increase in the commercialization of hemp-derived CBD products, most therapeutic claims have not been substantiated using clinical trials. This trial aimed to assess the impact of 6 weeks of treatment with a proprietary hemp-derived, full-spectrum, high-CBD sublingual solution similar to those available in the marketplace in patients with anxiety. Methods: An open-label pilot clinical trial (NCT04286594) was conducted in 12 patients with at least moderate levels of anxiety. Patients self-administered a hemp-derived, high-CBD sublingual solution twice daily during the 6-week trial (target daily dose: 30 mg/day CBD). Clinical change over time relative to baseline was assessed for anxiety, mood, sleep, and quality of life, as well as changes in cognitive performance on measures of executive function and memory. Safety and tolerability of the study product were also evaluated. Results: Patients reported significant reductions in anxiety symptoms over time. Concurrent improvements in mood, sleep, and relevant quality of life domains were also observed, along with stable or improved performance on all neurocognitive measures. Few side effects were reported, and no serious adverse events occurred. Conclusions: These pilot findings provide initial support for the efficacy and tolerability of the hemp-derived, high-CBD product in patients with moderate-to-severe levels of anxiety. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are indicated to obtain robust data regarding efficacy and tolerability of these types of products for anxiety. Full article

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) products containing less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the United States. This legislative shift catalyzed both public and scientific interest in CBD’s potential health benefits. However, the rapid expansion of the CBD market has considerably outpaced rigorous scientific research, leaving many health claims largely unsubstantiated. While preclinical studies suggest that CBD may exert antitumorigenic effects in colorectal cancer (CRC) by modulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation, clinical evidence supporting these effects remains limited. This review critically examines the current evidence on the role of CBD in colorectal tumorigenesis, with particular attention to its molecular mechanisms and interactions with the serotonergic system—a signaling pathway implicated in the development of CRC and possessing potential dual anti- and pro-tumorigenic properties. By influencing the serotonergic system, CBD may confer both protective and potentially deleterious effects during CRC development. This review underscores the need for further research to elucidate the complex mechanisms of CBD in colorectal tumorigenesis and to evaluate its therapeutic potential in clinical settings. Understanding these interactions could pave the way for novel prevention and treatment strategies, optimizing the anticancer efficacy of CBD while mitigating unintended risks. Full article

The global incidence of cancer continues to rise at an alarming rate, with annual cases projected to increase by 47% from 19.3 million in 2020 to 28.4 million by 2025. Cannabis sativa L. was among the earliest plants investigated for potential anticancer therapies, due to its more than 100 bioactive constituents that confer notable antioxidant properties. Hemp-derived extracts, particularly those rich in cannabidiol (CBD), exhibit notable synergistic biological effects, including the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis, alongside the promotion of apoptosis. These pharmacological attributes suggest that hemp oils may serve as promising alternatives or adjuncts to conventional chemotherapy, offering potential therapeutic benefits with a reduced risk of severe adverse effects. This review discusses the current literature on hemp oils, with emphasis on their roles in cancer prevention, therapeutic efficacy, and potential toxicity in humans. Furthermore, it explores the various extraction methods employed in hemp oil production and examines their chemical compositions, offering a comprehensive understanding of the principal antioxidant constituents responsible for their bioactivity to the readers. Full article