A study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research examined the phytochemicals of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) roots to evaluate their anti-inflammatory activities. The researchers used an ethyl acetate extract from hemp roots and a combination of chromatographic columns isolated phytochemicals. The researchers identified 32 structurally diverse compounds, including six cannabinoids. This study can help advance cannabis testing research and optimize anti-inflammatory cannabinoid formulations.
The chemical structures of the isolates were illuminated based on spectroscopic analyses (by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry). The anti-inflammatory effects of hemp root phytochemicals were evaluated using human monocyte THP-1 cells in an anti-inflammasome assay. The researchers also identified three phytosterols, four triterpenoids, five lignans, 10 hydroxyl-contained compounds, three fatty acids, and an unsaturated chain hydrocarbon.
Previous studies have demonstrated a link between regular consumption of hemp wellness products such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil. Clinical studies have confirmed that CBD reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, inhibits T-cell proliferation, and reduces the migration and adhesion of immune cells. Specialized cannabinoid-infused products have been developed to relieve inflammation associated with arthritis and other immune disorders. This study adds valuable knowledge of the hemp root extract’s anti-inflammatory properties for immunology and other patient populations.
Inflammasome formation is triggered by substances that emerge during infections, tissue damage, or metabolic imbalances. The inflammasome inhibition assay performed in the study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids isolated from hemp roots. The study demonstrated that the production of IL-1β and TNF-α in inflammasome inducers (LPS and nigericin) resulted in significant THP-1 cell increases when compared to the control group. Inflammasome in THP-1 cells was activated by the stimulation with LPS and nigericin.
The study contributed to the scholarship on the anti-inflammatory activity of hemp root extract and its potential effectiveness as a bioactive natural product.
Sources: Journal of Cannabis Research
