Australian researchers analyzed hemp leaves, roots and microgreens to determine their nutritional properties. The analysis focused on minerals, vitamins, terpenes, and amino acids. The study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research suggested that hemp’s various plant tissues potentially offer a good source of vitamin E, protein, and other micronutrients and minerals.
The research team evaluated cannabinoid concentrations in the various target tissues and the expression of key genes involved in cannabinoid biosynthesis. Analysis revealed that the cannabinoid pathway active in microgreens and young leaves was not active in hemp roots. The study determined that hemp leaves contained various proteins, essential amino acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but had low carbohydrate and saturated fat content. The researchers concluded that hemp leaves can potentially play an important role in meeting the recommended daily intake for nutrients, such as calcium, silicon, iron, vitamin B1, vitamin B3 and vitamin E.
The researchers detected low levels of cannabinoids and terpenoids in young hemp leaves and microgreens. The low levels are unlikely to cause any therapeutic or harmful effects, since cannabinoids predominantly are in their acidic forms in fresh hemp plant tissues. Microgreens had significantly higher cannabidiol (CBD) levels than hemp leaves, but the researchers observed no CBD in hemp roots.
The research team also detected arsenic accumulation in hemp roots, indicating that safe cultivation of hemp roots for human consumption requires standardized processing procedures that closely monitor toxins. Analysis indicated that tannins/polyphenols measured as tannic acid differed between the tissues. Microgreens had the highest level of tannins, followed by young hemp leaves.
The study highlights the need for additional studies that evaluate the nutritional value and health benefits of derivative products, such as hemp root coffee, hemp tea, and hemp leaf herbal extract. As global hemp cultivation increases, many industry leaders and researchers believe hemp’s nutritional value could diversify and add value to the industrial hemp industry.
Source: Journal of Cannabis Research
