Abstract The number of human infections with multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is increasing worldwide and constitutes a serious threat to human health. Given the lack of novel antibiotic compounds worsening this dilemma, alternative antibiotic-independent treatment and prevention strategies of infectious diseases applying natural compounds appear highly appreciable. Given the long-known health-beneficial and disease-alleviating properties of Cannabis, we performed a literature search summarizing current knowledge regarding the antibacterial effects of extracts from different parts of the Cannabis sativa plant and of defined Cannabis-derived molecules and their potential mode of action. The included studies revealed that various extracts and essential oils of C. sativa as well as major cannabinoids exerted potent activities against a broad...

Abstract Background Depression has been cited as a possible confounder, moderator, and mediator of the relationship between cannabis use and suicidal behaviours. We aimed to assess the role of depression in the relationship between cannabis use and suicidal behaviours by systematically reviewing existing literature in the general population. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, Science Direct and PsycArticles from database inception to May 20th 2024, for quantitative observational studies investigating the role of depression in the association between cannabis use and suicidal behaviours. We conducted a meta-analysis to examine the confounding role of depression and search for qualitative arguments in favour of moderating and/or mediating roles of depression....

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Background Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, a major component of cannabis, causes sympathetic stimulation and endothelial dysfunction. A recent American Heart Association consensus document has outlined cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use. However, there are limited data surrounding atrial arrhythmias (AA). Objectives This study aimed to investigate the association between cannabis use and the risk of AAs. Methods MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for articles published up to April 2024 for studies on cannabis use and AAs (atrial fibrillation/flutter/tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a...

Abstract Background: Cannabis sativa is a high-value crop that can be cultivated for ruminant’s feed and medicinal purposes. The demand for Cannabis and Cannabis products has increased since the beginning of 21st century. Objectives: The increase in the production cost of high-protein feeds such as lucerne has led to an urgent need to investigate alternative high-protein sources. Methods: Cannabis has been identified as an alternative to lucerne due to its high protein content. Results: However, the cultivation and uses of Cannabis and its by-products in South Africa is limited due to the strict legislation. The metabolites and nutritional value of Cannabis are influenced by growing conditions and soil type. Furthermore,...

Abstract Objective The certainty of effects on neurodevelopmental outcomes resulting from perinatal cannabis exposure is yet to be established. This review synthesizes current clinical and preclinical evidence on neurodevelopment and related functional outcomes in offspring exposed to cannabis during pregnancy or early childhood. Additionally, gaps in the literature and suggestions to bridge these gaps are provided. Method A PubMed database search identified highest level of evidence studies focusing on in utero and early childhood cannabis exposure using keywords broadly describing outcomes alongside informal, spontaneous, and reference searches to supplement search hits. Priority was given to recent clinical studies. Findings were categorized into cognitive measures (memory, attention,...

Abstract Paranoia is common and has negative implications at clinical and societal levels. Cannabis may cause paranoia, although conflicting evidence exists. We reviewed studies on the association between cannabinoid use and paranoid symptoms. PubMed was searched from inception to July 2023, seeking experimental and observational studies that measured paranoid symptoms with specific assessments. Data of 13 studies (n = 13.559 participants) were pooled using Bayesian Model-Averaged Meta-Analysis, hierarchical Bayesian meta-analyses and Robust Bayesian Meta-Analysis. Effect size measures were Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) or Odds Ratio (OR). Five experimental studies showed that participants receiving cannabinoids developed more severe paranoid symptoms than those receiving placebo (SMD = 0.47; 95 % CI, 0.13 – 0.48, Posterior Probability of Inclusion, PPI:...

Abstract Background/rationale Electroencephalography (EEG) has potential to provide a sensitive measure of the acute neurophysiological response to cannabis administration. As delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; the psychoactive constituent of cannabis) can induce transient neurocognitive impairments that differ as a function of tolerance and dose, understanding the neural profile related to intoxication would be of great benefit in the wake of increasing recreational and medicinal use. Accordingly, the present systematic review examined the current research literature related to acute cannabis administration and EEG measures.

Abstract The growing demand for plant-based protein and natural food ingredients has further fueled interest in exploring hemp seeds (Cannabis sativa L.) as a sustainable source of and nutrition. In addition to the content of proteins and healthy fats (linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid), hemp seeds are rich in phytochemical compounds, especially terpenoids, polyphenols, and phytosterols, which contribute to their bioactive properties. Scientific studies have shown that these compounds possess significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects, making hemp seeds a promising ingredient for promoting health. Since THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are found only in traces, hemp seeds can be used in food applications because...

Abstract The roles of endophytes in Cannabis sativa (cannabis, hemp) remain poorly explored. While in vitro studies suggest that there can be several benefits, such as plant growth promotion and protection against pathogens, more in planta studies are needed. This review summarizes the bacterial and fungal endophytes previously reported in tissues of C. sativa and discusses the factors influencing their presence, as well as their potential beneficial and detrimental effects. Using genome sequencing and culture-based approaches, we describe the microbial diversity in hydroponically cultivated cannabis plants at several developmental stages. These include mother plants, cuttings, vegetative and flowering plants, and tissue-cultured plantlets. Microbes that were present include fungal,...

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract The landscape of cannabis use has changed rapidly, with over 40% of adults aged 19 to 30 years using cannabis in the past year. Of great concern is the rising prevalence in pregnant women, fueled by the legalization and its public perception of safety. However, emerging evidence from animal/in vitro and human studies suggests that prenatal cannabis exposure influence maternal physiology and fetal development, with impact on short- and long-term outcomes. While cannabis exposure is well-known for its impacts on cognitive functioning and neurodevelopment, it also affects other organ systems, leading to long-term cardiovascular, hematologic,...