Hemp-derived CBD is an adaptable ingredient used in functional food applications. Packed with phytonutrients and with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties – as well as cognitive function-boosting abilities – hemp CBD has many applications across a wide variety of food applications.
Hemp and marijuana are closely related, yet have many differences, particularly regarding their chemical makeup. Hemp plants contain relatively low levels of THC which makes them non-intoxicating.
Phytocannabinoids
Phytocannabinoids, the non-psychoactive components of cannabis that interact and modulate human endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and stress reducing benefits as well as pain management potential; they do not, however, produce psychoactive effects like THC nor have high addiction risk like opioids or alcohol do.
CBC is the second most abundant phytocannabinoid found in cannabis plants and does not cause psychoactive effects. Produced through decarboxylation of CBCA caused by heating, it boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and increases antibiotic effectiveness.
Integrating hemp-derived CBD into functional foods is an effective way of providing natural benefits, including improved sleep and mood, for consumers. But its concentration may differ between hemp products by up to 25% depending on factors like plant variety and cultivation methods.
Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals are natural plant-derived chemical compounds with disease-preventing and protective properties that are found in food items such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and tea. Common forms include flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, isoprenoids, phytosterols saponins and dietary fibers – with many scientific studies linking their consumption with reduced risks of heart disease, cancer diabetes and other chronic disorders.
Extracting phytochemicals from various food sources is a crucial element of developing functional foods and nutraceuticals. Popular extraction techniques include Soxhlet extraction, percolation and reflux extraction. Extraction solvents also play a pivotal role in the quality of phytochemicals extracted. Solvents used for phytochemical extraction may be divided into green solvents (water, ethanol, glycerol, fatty acids/oils, acetic acid, supercritical carbon dioxide, deep eutectic and natural deep eutectic solvents) and other solvents (acetone, chloroform, butanol isopropanol hexane and cyclohexane). Encapsulating phytochemicals in edible delivery vehicles enhances their bioefficacy by increasing stability during storage and digestion.
Cannabinoid receptors
CB1 and CB2 receptors for endogenous cannabinoids exist within our bodies, known as G protein-coupled receptors that work to stop cells’ adenylate cyclase from producing cyclic AMP. When activated by endogenous cannabinoids, these receptors regulate various neurological activities.
Neurons communicate via neurotransmitters that act like signaling molecules such as anandamide and 2-arachidonyl glycerol that bind to receptors on other neurons and tell them when messages have been successfully delivered and received. These neurotransmitters serve as signaling molecules for other neurons, alerting them that an action has taken place and has been received.
Receptors can be found not only in nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord, but also in some peripheral tissues like adipose tissue and immune cells. They form part of the Eukaryotic Control System (ECS), which keeps internal systems running smoothly. When certain endocannabinoids bind with specific receptors within this ECS response – say for instance CB1 activation can reduce pain relief – an ECS response will ensue that requires no further action on your part.
Cannabidiol
CBD is a phytocannabinoid known for its anti-inflammatory and anxiety relieving properties. CBD acts as an allosteric modulator of CB1 receptors to control pain and other symptoms effectively; additionally it can be combined with other medicines to increase their efficacy.
Hemp provides many health benefits for both humans and animals alike. It serves as an essential source of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, hemp’s phytochemicals have long been touted for their anti-oxidant properties; its rich sources of isoprenoid flavonoids such as luteolin, kaempferol, quercetin, and canflavin A provide extra antioxidant support.
Hemp ingredients have gained increasing prominence in the food industry and can greatly enhance both human and animal nutrition. They must, however, be processed correctly to be considered safe for human consumption – for instance hemp seeds provide a rich source of protein which can be used to create delicious protein-packed dishes like bread.
