Study: Hemp Seed Extracts May Enhance Effectiveness of Antibiotics and Antifungal Medications

A study published by the journal Plants reports that extracts derived from hemp seeds may enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics and antifungal medications, with results varying significantly depending on both the hemp cultivar and the extraction method used. The research was conducted by scientists from Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy and focused on three Romanian hemp seed varieties: Lovrin 110, Silvana, and LV 585. Researchers analyzed seed extracts produced using conventional hydroalcoholic extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction, comparing their chemical profiles and antimicrobial activity. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, the team found that ultrasound-assisted extraction consistently produced higher concentrations of specific phenolic compounds, including epicatechin, quercetin, rosmarinic acid, resveratrol, and ferulic acid. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

In laboratory testing, extracts with higher phenolic enrichment showed stronger inhibitory effects against a range of bacteria and yeasts, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. The most notable antimicrobial activity was observed against Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and the yeast Candida albicans. When combined with the antibiotics amoxicillin and miconazole, several extracts produced measurable synergistic effects, reducing the amount of medication needed to inhibit microbial growth.

Statistical analysis revealed that antimicrobial performance was driven more by the presence of specific phenolic compounds than by total phenolic content. Certain phenolic profiles were more closely linked to activity against Gram-positive bacteria, while others were associated with inhibition of Escherichia coli and Candida albicans.

According to the researchers, the findings suggest that carefully selected hemp seed extracts could potentially support antimicrobial therapies, though further studies would be needed to assess safety, dosing, and real-world applicability.