Headlines and buzzwords turning into trending topics of discussion have become a regular occurrence on the internet. Hemp leaf extract is one such topic that has managed to consistently be the topic of debates, both big and small. More specifically, the compound Cannabidiol has garnered quite a bit of attention over the last few years in the spheres of wellness and health. Even a simple google search would result in hundreds of articles varying from studies and medical testimonials to articles claiming to decipher and uncover the hype around Hemp leaf extract. In this eclectic mix, you're more likely to come across sceptic think pieces that are confident that Hemp leaf extract is nothing more than an overhyped trend, than well studied factual information.

The ratio of dismissive articles may seem harmless, created for nothing but sensationalism and a few clicks. But diving deeper one can see that the effects of such claims run quite deep. Real harm happens when such articles gain traction, influencing the opinions of people. It gets in the way of the ones trying to put out the truth. It hinders the efforts of holistic wellness brands, medical practitioners and real advocates who want to make use of Hemp leaf extract for the betterment of people. Amid scandal and misinformation, the true purpose finds itself hidden and overshadowed.

As champions and believers of this wonder plant, our mission has been to bring forward the best of hemp leaf extracts potential for wellbeing. But to make it accessible and approachable as an everyday staple, the biggest challenge has been to change perceptions, especially those that have been twisted by misleading articles and revelations.

Taking a step towards setting the slate clean, we wanted to bust a few common myths that hold people back from accepting and understanding the real potential of Hemp leaf extract. Here are a few popular myths that we decided needed to be put to rest:

Myth #1: Hemp Leaf Extract can get you high

Probably the most common and widely believed myth, it arises mainly due to the lack of clarity in the distinction between the various strains of the Hemp plant. When referring to the feeling of getting high, it is caused by the presence of the psychoactive compound THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol. Hemp is a non-psychotropic strain that contains less than 0.3% THC. Also known as Industrial Hemp, it is this strain that is most commonly utilized as a material for fiber, fabric and nutrition. Rich in antioxidants, proteins and the compound CBD, it makes for excellent wellness and nutritional supplement. This strain contains only trace levels of THC and hence cannot have any psychoactive effects at all. On the other hand, "Recreational Hemp Leaf Extract" is a strain that contains more than 0.3% of THC. Hence, when consumed, it contributes to the intoxicating feeling. So when looking at a product's composition, one must note the strain of Hemp leaf extract is what indicates the potential of it being psychoactive. 

Myth #2: Cannabidiol is a recreational intoxicant

The feeling of high comes from the presence of higher levels of the psychoactive compound Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. Cannabidiol is commonly synthesized from the Hemp plant which contains less than 0.3% THC. Without the presence of high levels of THC, Hemp-based products cannot have any intoxicating properties. On the contrary, Hemp leaf extract is known to have a therapeutic effect on the body and mind. Many long-term users have seen improvements in their mental health as Hemp leaf extract can help soothe and relax anxiety and mood swings. Hence, Hemp leaf extract based medication is often administered as a gentle, non-invasive method to enjoy the healing properties of Hemp leaf extract without the worry negative side effects.

Myth #3: Hemp Leaf Extract works like THC but without the high

Cannabidiol and THC are both administered as solutions for pain, inflammation, anxiety, etc. As Cannabidiol does not cause any psychoactive effects, it is often assumed that it works the same as THC without the high. The reason why the above statement is a myth is because of how differently the two compounds function and interact with the body when consumed. THC interacts with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, which contributes to the feeling of euphoria or being high. Cannabidiol works by helping rebalance the cannabinoid reserves in the body's endocannabinoid system. It tends to have very weak bonds with the CB1 receptors and hence does not produce the intoxicating feeling associated with THC. In fact, Cannabidiol has been known to help counteract and reduce some of the psychoactive effects of THC.

Myth #4: All Hemp Leaf Extract is the same and has the same function

The market currently is brimming with hundreds if not thousands of different formulations of Hemp Leaf Extract-based wellness products. Do they all have the same amount of Cannabidiol? And do they all do the same thing? The collective answer is an absolute NO. It is the equivalent of saying the effects of tea are the same as coffee or energy drinks. Depending on its application, every Hemp product contains a varying concentration of Cannabidiol. For example, Isolated Cannabidiol products as the name suggests, contain synthetically purified Cannabidiol only. Broad-spectrum Cannabidiol products are often blends of compounds such as terpenes. Full-spectrum Cannabidiol products encompass nearly the complete profile of cannabidiol, terpenes and other compounds including THC. With such varying levels of concentrations, each of them has different purposes and effects on an individual's body and hence should never be clubbed in the same group together.

Myth #5: More is better

What is worth noting when it comes to Hemp leaf extract-based products is that higher doses don't always guarantee better performance or effect. High concentrations of cannabidiol such as isolates are in fact less impactful than the more complex full-spectrum Cannabidiol. The combination of terpenes and other cannabinoids creates a better synergistic effect. More so, the efficacy and effect of any Hemp leaf extract product on the body are determined by its medium or mode of consumption. With oral methods such as capsules or oils, most of the Cannabidiol passes through the digestive tract reducing the amount entering the bloodstream. However, consuming the same concentration through a tincture placed under the tongue will result in a higher number of Cannabinoids entering the bloodstream. In no way does it mean that low dosage forms like capsules or topical creams any less helpful. Even low doses are effective and can help a variety of ailments, such as arthritis or chronic inflammation. The varying concentration and formulas simply exist to help you choose the one that suits your requirements and palette the best.

Myth #6: You should feel the benefits instantly

This is one of the biggest reasons why many tend to dismiss the efficacy and potential of Hemp leaf extract. In a world where instant gratification and solutions are the way to a consumer's heart, Hemp leaf extract tends to break the mould. It all comes down to the way Hemp leaf extract functions with the body. Generic pain medication works by blocking out receptors, preventing the brain from feeling any sensation of pain. Unlike that, Cannabidiol works in tandem with the body's own mechanism, which is also known as the endocannabinoid system. The ECS is in control of many critical processes such as sleep, appetite, mood and overall internal balance or homeostasis. It does so by maintaining a very precarious balance of compounds known as endocannabinoids in the body. The slightest imbalance can wreak havoc on the body's natural functioning resulting in pain, inflammation and much more. Instead of directly interacting with the receptors, Cannabidiol, rich in cannabinoids, works by slowly replenishing the lost balance, getting the system back on track. This rebalancing is not an instant process. It is only with gradual and consistent use that Cannabidiol can have a tangible effect on the body, and can you see an actual improvement. Just like with anything that can have an impact, the benefits of Cannabidiol take time.

When it comes to opinions about Hemp leaf extract, there is a lot to sift through. Depending on who you hear from, there are many different sides about the true potential of the plant. The further your research, the more complicated the opinions on Hemp leaf extract get. But with such a versatile profile and application, there is nothing but endless possibilities when it comes to the future of the plant. The proof of its potential is in history. It is one of the oldest existing herbs used for medicinal purposes. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system that forms the basis of modern medicine and pharmacy, contains detailed accounts on the properties of Hemp leaf extract and how it can heal the body.

Maybe today’s science is not rife with endless research papers and studies on Hemp leaf extract, but civilizations much before have already given it the green light. A push towards better awareness coupled with a rising approach towards wellness and growing curiosity around the plant can eventually lead to more acceptance for the plant. Hemp is an ancient herb, and the scope of its potential is still being discovered. But the progress behind the plant shows no signs of stopping, and it is only a matter of time that Hemp Leaf Extract would once again become the norm in everyday life.

Written by Shamooda Amrelia, Doorbeen Creatives