In the past decade, medical cannabis has grown as a therapeutic means of relief, especially among senior citizens, who often seek to treat symptoms of ailments from arthritis to glaucoma. Luckily, there are many very help hemp flower strains for seniors available.
Can Senior Citizens Benefit from Hemp Flower?
In the past decade, medical cannabis has grown as a therapeutic means of relief, especially amongst senior citizens, who often seek to treat symptoms of ailments from arthritis to glaucoma.
While cannabis can be an effective form of pain and stress relief, there are some seniors who wish to enjoy its therapeutic benefits, but not so much the high that comes with it. On top of that, cannabis is still not legal in all 50 states, so it’s yet to be widely accessible.
Luckily, this is where hemp flower comes in.
Hemp flower is, quite simply, the flowering bud from a female hemp plant, and carries an abundance of beneficial compounds including cannabinoids, antioxidants and terpenes. While hemp flower may look similar to cannabis, they share one great difference, hemp does not have as much tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which is the psychoactive compound in marajuana that makes the user high.
Regardless, hemp flower tends to contain a concentrated amount of the cannabinoid known as cannabidiol, or CBD. While there are many more cannabinoids than just THC and CBD, CBD is especially regarded for its stress-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties.
In fact, the capacity for high CBD, low THC hemp flower to reduce inflammation, stress, and nausea is so vast, that it’s believed to be able to help with a variety of conditions and ailments closely associated with the elderly, including multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis and depression.
In this article, we will go over some of our favorite strains of hemp flower for elderly customers, and then we will explain the ways in which hemp flower performs so well when it comes to eliminating discomfort, regulating functions, and supporting the body against pathogens.
Special Sauce from Blue Ridge Selects
This strain cultivated from 4 Letter Farm is a unique spin on the Sauce classics, and you can tell at first sight! Special Sauce creates long, slender nugs, which produced leaves in a mellow shade of sage green, with just the occasional spark of orange. Perfect for those who wish to reduce painful symptoms while promoting immune system help.
Besides the more well-known terpenes, this strain contains .05% nerolidol, which not only contains antifungal and antibacterial properties, but have profound protective abilities against pain, bodily damage and stress.
Nerolidol’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have been indicated in this study to protect against neuropathic pain and oxidative stress, meaning that it can protect the tissue against damage caused by unstable hydrogen molecules known as free radicals.
Special Sauce also contains high amounts of humulene, which tends to give herbs a spicy, floral, herbaceous scent. As the trichomes grow on hemp plants, humulene is one of the terpenes especially responsible for deterring pests that would feed upon the plant.
Humulene has an extensive amount of research on its benefits, including this study observing how the humulene in sage oil can work as an antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory aid.
These properties allow the user to reduce inflammation, even that which is inflicted by tricky chronic pain like osteoporosis. Meanwhile, its ability to help prevent bacterial infections can potentially strengthen senior citizens’ immune systems.
Total CBD: 15.44%
D9-THC: ND (not detected)
Beta-Myrcene: .5%
Beta-Caryophyllene: .2%
Humulene: .096%
Alpha-Bisabolol: .089%
Limonene: .06%
Nerolidol: .05%
Suzy Q from Mr. Hemp Flower- Best Hemp Flower For Seniors
Suzy Q is a classic of Mr. Hemp Flower’s, and boasts nearly 24% CBD! It goes without saying, then, that this strain is incredibly relaxing, and is recommended especially for the use of relieving insomnia, anxiety and pain.
Suzy Q is especially high in beta-myrcene, which, at .26%, renders this strain as sativa dominant. This terpene characteristic signifies that the strain won’t make the user drowsy, but will certainly provide relaxing effects. That being said, you should have no problem sleeping if you take this hemp flower in the evening.
This strain also contains .05% alpha-pinene, which is not only a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, but also works as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Plus, alpha-pinene makes a strain especially great for those who find themselves to be heavily sensitive to even the slightest amount of THC, since alpha-pinene can help counteract the anxiety sometimes caused by it.
Suzy Q is also high in limonene and linalool, which, among other functions, are notoriously known for soothing the muscles while also relieving anxiety.
Suzy Q produces buds which present an earthy shade of green, with an even distribution of amber-colored tendrils. When smoked or vaped, this nug gives of a light, piney aroma, which is a great pre-bedtime treat.
Total CBD: 23.28%
D9-THC: less than .3%
Alpha-Pinene: .05%
Beta-Myrcene: .26%
Limonene: .02%
Linalool: .02%
Blue Genius from Tweedle Farms
When this strain is broken down, it reveals an aroma of cloves, spices and tropical fruit, along with hints of creamy, earthy sweetness. Many lovers of this hemp flower strain have reported that you “will cry” from how delightful it smells.
Those who wish to curb both chronic pain and fatigue will find relief in this hybrid strain.
Blue Genius is a hemp flower strain with a fantastic amount of CBD for those who are still used to this beneficial plant.
Blue Genius also contains .07% of the terpene phytol. Phytol is produced from the breakdown of chlorophyll in plants, and, thanks to its antinociceptive effects, it is known to work as an especially powerful anti-inflammatory agent.
This terpene can give relief to a great deal of pain in the body because of its unique reach; specifically, it is effective against nociceptive pain. Nociceptive pain is one of the most common manifestations of physical pain in the nervous system, occurring throughout sprains, bone fractures, obstruction and inflammation, and is triggered by threats to the body, like an infection or injury, although the receptors can be catalyzed by as little as stubbing a toe. Because of the way phytol can help target and regulate nociceptive pain, it works as an effective painkiller.
These jewel-like buds sport a vibrant shade of green, tendril-like leaves, whilst bearing a generous sprinkling of amber-colored trichomes and peach-colored pistils. These buds are dense, and reach small-to-medium sizes, making them perfect for an easy breakdown in the grinder.
Total CBD: 12.72%
D9-THC: .04%
Beta-Myrcene: .32%
Phytol: .07%
Beta-Pinene: .06%
Limonene: .056%
Geraniol: .02%
Divine Goddess from Dr. Ganja
Divine Goddess is one of Dr. Ganja’s newest strains, and if you’re familiar with their products, you’ll quickly be able to distinguish this batch from the rest. Moreover, this strain is especially useful for elderly hemp users with anxiety, anxiety or depression, as it creates something of an effect in the head rather than in the body, which is unusual for Dr. Ganja’s strains.
That being said, the balance of this strain is somewhere in the middle of the sativa-indica spectrum, and it will help you regulate your relaxation, however and whenever you need it. If you have some before bed, it’s the ideal nightcap, producing a gentle euphoria, which is then followed by a mild wave of sedation.
Meanwhile, if you take it in the morning, it’ll give a headrush of energy likened to a caffeine buzz, which can help stimulate creativity and productivity. Because of this, Divine Goddess is the perfect “anytime” strain.
This strain contains all of the “staple” terpenes for inflammation, including beta-myrcene, beta-caryophyllene and beta-pinene. Plus, it contains other terpenes like beta-farnesene, which can promote colon health while preventing muscle spasms.
Divine Goddess produces flowers that are dark in both smell and appearance, featuring a dense, tightly-packed texture that bears an aromatic sandalwood scent when broken into. When inhaled, the pleasant cedar and grass flavor really comes through.
While users can use this hemp flower however they please, Dr. Ganja especially recommends that you vape it to get the most of the cedar and sweet grass flavor.
Total CBD: 12.42%
D9-THC: ND
Beta-Farnesene .127%
Beta-Myrcene: .86%
Beta-Caryophyllene: .47%
Alpha-Humulene: .154%
Beta-Pinene: .099%
How Hemp Flower Helps Seniors
You may be wondering: exactly what’s with all the fuss about CBD? Simply put, cannabinoids such as CBD assist with symptoms of pain and anxiety in a unique way.
When cannabinoids enter the body, they interact with a series of receptors throughout the body. This collection of receptors is known as the endocannabinoid system, or ECS, and it has control over sleep regulation, pain management, and stress levels.
Interestingly, when the ECS recognizes the cannabinoids, it uses them as a sort of booster for improving and balancing these functions, and each terpene is assigned to a different part. In recent years, CBD has especially gained popularity thanks to its abundance in many strains, as well as its effectiveness in particular when combating stress and pain.
While many hemp flower strains contain some THC, it is not enough to create any sort of significant effect, although even a trace amount helps create the synergistic connection between all parts of the hemp flower, creating the entourage effect. This effect is said to make hemp flower all the more effective in delivering its therapeutic effects.
In the European Journal of Pain, for instance, one study using an animal model showed that CBD can help to manage pain caused by arthritis.
Meanwhile, there is considerable evidence suggesting that CBD can help those who suffer from muscle spasms. One report observed that short-term use of CBD can reduce muscle spasms, while additionally relieving tension and soreness.
Terpenes in Hemp Flower for Elders
Beta-Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is a common and often abundant terpene found in cannabis. Its distinctive flavor contributes to the spiciness of black pepper and can be found in high amounts in cloves, hops, and rosemary. It falls under the FDA’s “generally recognized as safe” classification, so large doses can be safely consumed.
Over the last decade, caryophyllene has gained the attention of scientists when it was discovered to be one of the first non-cannabinoids to directly activate cannabinoid receptors. Caryophyllene-rich cannabis strains may therefore have specific medicinal effects due to this terpene’s effect on our endocannabinoid system.
The data suggest that, in many cases, caryophyllene can provide pain relief. In one study, scientists injected mice with caryophyllene and found that they experienced less pain than those treated with the control solution. Furthermore, caryophyllene enhanced the pain-reducing strength of low-dose morphine. This could be one reason why those using prescription opioids from pain are often able to decrease their dose of opioids when they begin using medical cannabis.
Beta-Myrcene
A limited number of rodent studies have suggested that Beta-Myrcene, given at high doses, may have muscle relaxant effects. The same study also showed that Beta-Myrcene can increase the amount of time mice spent asleep, but only when given in combination with narcotics with strong sedative effects.
However, animal studies often do not translate to humans, so more research is needed before we will have a clear indication of whether Beta-Myrcene can produce sedative effects, especially at the levels it is commonly found in commercial cannabis products.
Lemongrass tea containing high levels of Beta-Myrcene has played a role in Brazilian folk medicine for its claimed anti-anxiety and pain-relieving properties. The first published claim for Beta-Myrcene reducing pain was generated in 1990 by scientists in Brazil.
They concluded that Beta-Myrcene reduced pain by increasing the brain and spinal cord’s own opioid chemicals, but this has been debated. Much more work is needed to prove whether or not Beta-Myrcene has bona fide pain-relieving properties in humans.
Delta 3 Carene
Delta 3 carene holds potential for those with arthritis and osteoporosis, thanks to its aptitude in healing broken bones, especially when damaged from a lack of proper nutrition.
Delta 3 carene is known for its sweet, earthy aromas in hemp strains, and if found in cedar, pepperts, fir and rosemary.
Eucalyptol/Cineole
This terpene is very likely something you’ve encountered when applying a menthol chest rub for a cold.
Eucalyptol is, of course, found commonly in eucalyptus, and carriers a cool, pungent aroma that’s both refreshing and therapeutic. It’s no wonder that eucalyptus is one of the most popular essential oils!
Furthermore, eucalyptol has shown potential with peripheral neuropathy patients, and well as possibly improve cognitive function and prevent the onset of neurodegenerative disorders.
Conclusion
Due to its properties for improving bodily function and reducing pain and discomfort, hemp flower can be an excellent form of relief and medicinal benefits for seniors. Plus, hemp flower it legal in all 50 states, and will give you all of the therapeutic effects of medical cannabis without feeling any undesired sense of intoxication.
FAQs
Depending on the strain’s profile, hemp flower can treat symptoms surrounding chronic fatigue by targeting insomnia and chronic pain.
Hemp flower will not get the user high, as it legally cannot contain more than .3% THC. However, hemp flower can provide a wealth of other benefits, including uplifted mood, pain relief, and a better night’s sleep.
Hemp flower may initially raise blood pressure, but users typically experience their blood-pressure lowering after the first few uses.
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