Hemp Root Infused Hemp Seed Oil Topicals in the treatment of Knee OA and the science behind it

Hemp root have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to alleviate various ailments, including inflammation and pain. The phytochemical constituents of hemp roots have been characterized, revealing a diverse array of compounds, including:

1. Monoterpenes: Carvone and dihydrocarvone have been identified as the primary active compounds in hemp roots, exhibiting anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
2. Triterpenoids: Friedelin and epifriedelanol are two triterpenoids found in hemp roots, which may have therapeutic applications.
3. Alkaloids: Cannabisativine and anhydrocannabisativine are two alkaloids present in hemp roots, which may contribute to their medicinal properties.

Historically, hemp root have been used to treat:

Inflammation: Hemp root decoctions were applied topically to allay inflammation in the head, or any other part, and to treat skin burns.
Gout: Decoctions of hemp roots were used to alleviate symptoms of gout, arthritis, and joint pain

Recently new studies on the potential of hemp seed oil for Knee OA have been released.
A double-blind, randomized controlled trial published in Pain Management Nursing in 2024 found that topical application of hemp seed oil reduced osteoarthritic knee pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The study involved 90 patients aged 45-70 years, who were randomly assigned to receive either hemp seed oil, diclofenac gel (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), or a placebo. The results showed that patients in the hemp seed oil group experienced significant improvements in pain, physical function, and perceived stiffness compared to the placebo group. The study’s findings suggest that hemp seed oil may be a viable adjunctive therapy for managing knee OA pain.

Additionally, another study published in Pharmacological Research in 2021 investigated the effects of hemp seed oil on human rheumatoid arthritis (RA) fibroblast-like synovial cells (MH7A cells). The study found that hemp seed oil treatment induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression, and apoptosis (cell death) in MH7A cells, suggesting potential anti-rheumatoid activity.

While these studies provide promising evidence, it is essential to note that more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of hemp seed oil as a treatment for knee arthritis. As with any new therapy, patients should consult with their healthcare provider before using hemp seed oil, especially if they are taking medications or have underlying medical conditions.

Key Points:

1. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial found that topical hemp seed oil reduced osteoarthritic knee pain in patients with knee OA.
2. Another study showed that hemp seed oil induced ROS production, CHOP expression, and apoptosis in human RA fibroblast-like synovial cells.
3. More research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of hemp seed oil as a treatment for knee arthritis.
4. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before using hemp seed oil, especially if they are taking medications or have underlying medical conditions
   
   Reference links
   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9841654/
   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5628559/
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36837393/
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39256070/