Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hemp, specifically in the form of cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, has been investigated for its potential to reduce certain side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, vomiting, pain, and loss of appetite. Scientific validation exists primarily for THC-containing products, some of which are derived from hemp, while pure hemp (with low THC, high CBD) has less robust evidence. The most substantial evidence supports the use of cannabinoids for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses (e.g., Whiting et al., JAMA 2015; National Academies Report, 2017) conclude that cannabinoids are more effective than placebo and comparable to some standard antiemetics in certain settings. The FDA has approved synthetic THC (dronabinol, nabilone) for CINV, reflecting this evidence.

However, clinical evidence specifically for hemp-derived CBD in reducing chemotherapy side effects is less robust. Some small studies and preclinical models suggest potential benefits for anxiety, pain, and appetite, but results are inconsistent. Importantly, "hemp" products often contain very little THC, and most clinical trials with positive results use higher THC concentrations. Thus, while there is scientific evidence supporting cannabinoids for chemotherapy side effects, the evidence for hemp-derived products (high in CBD, low in THC) is moderate and not as strong as for THC-containing cannabis or pharmaceuticals. Additional research is needed to clarify the role of hemp and CBD in this context.

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