The presence of contaminants in cannabis-derived products can pose a significant health risk. Identifying these contaminants and understanding the measures to avoid them is crucial for ensuring safe consumption.
Cannabis can be exposed to various contaminants at different stages of its production. Among the most common are pesticides, which are used to protect the plants from pests but whose residues can be harmful to the consumer. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium can accumulate in the plant through the soil, posing a long-term risk.
Another frequent issue is microbiological contamination. Fungi, mold, and bacteria can proliferate if cannabis is not dried or stored properly. The presence of mycotoxins, toxins produced by certain fungi, can cause adverse health effects, especially in people with compromised immune systems.
Additionally, residual solvents used in the extraction of oils and concentrates can be problematic. Substances such as butane or ethanol, if not removed properly, can lead to toxicity in the body. There are also adulterants and accidental contaminants, such as glass or plastic particles, which can be introduced during processing or packaging.
Types of contaminants in cannabis
Cannabis hosts many beneficial microbes that help protect the plant from pathogens. However, cannabis is not a "disease-free" crop and can be affected by pathogens like gray mold (Botrytis) and rot. These pathogens are generally not dangerous to humans, except in cases of people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.
The real risk arises after harvest, when cannabis is stored and handled. At this point, fungi and bacteria can proliferate, especially if storage conditions are inadequate. Even if the crop is treated to eliminate these pathogens, dead fungi and bacteria can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and diseases related to mycotoxins.
Heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants
Cannabis can absorb heavy metals from the soil, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, due to its bioaccumulating nature. This means the plant can accumulate these metals in its structure, which can pose a risk of long-term toxicity. Hydroponic fertilizers and contaminated soils are especially prone to this type of contamination.
Pesticides are also a major concern. Sometimes, growers use unapproved products or repackaged pesticides, which can leave dangerous residues in the cannabis. The illicit use of pesticides, such as abamectin, has caused severe public health issues, including hospitalizations. Efforts to regulate and eliminate the improper use of pesticides are underway, with organizations working to establish better practices in the industry.
Additives and artificial contaminants
In some cases, additives are added to cannabis to change its flavor, smell, or effects. While some of these, such as terpenes, are generally safe in the amounts present in plants, their elevated concentration can cause respiratory problems and other adverse effects.
Particularly, some illegal products have added lead to cannabis to increase its weight and make more profit. Additionally, certain additives, such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, can form carcinogenic substances when heated.
Combustion products
When cannabis is burned or exposed to high temperatures, the chemical reactions generated can transform initially harmless substances into dangerous compounds. This risk is higher in combustion products like cannabis cigarettes or "dabs," where high temperatures can create harmful substances from the compounds present in the plant.
Health risks
Exposure to pesticides and heavy metals has been linked to neurological issues, liver damage, and hormonal disorders. Microbiological contaminants can cause respiratory infections and allergic reactions, while residual solvents can affect the central nervous system.
In the long term, the accumulation of these contaminants in the body may contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Medicinal users, in particular, should be especially cautious, as their health conditions may make them more vulnerable to the negative effects of these substances.
In addition to direct contaminants in cannabis, another important environmental factor is air pollution, one of the main threats to human health, especially due to the presence of fine particles known as PM (particulate matter). These particles are classified by their size as:
- PM10: Inhalable particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less.
- PM2.5: Fine inhalable particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less.
Due to their tiny size, PM2.5 can penetrate deeply into the lungs and reach the bloodstream, affecting various organs and systems in the body.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exposure to these particles has been associated with multiple health problems, including premature death in people with heart or lung diseases, nonfatal heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, aggravated asthma, and reduced lung function.
A study published in the Revista Española de Cardiología highlights that exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs) may increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, triggering events such as acute myocardial infarction, hospitalizations for ischemic stroke, and decompensated congestive heart failure.
How hemp seeds help combat air pollution
To mitigate the adverse effects of pollution from fine particles, nutritional interventions have been explored. A promising approach is supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
According to an article in the Revista Chilena de Nutrición, omega-3s exert their anti-inflammatory effect through the production of substances called protectins and resolvins, which reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the infiltration of inflammatory cells into tissues.
Hemp seeds stand out as a rich and balanced source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Hemp seed oil contains about 85% essential fatty acids, offering one of the richest natural sources of these nutrients. Additionally, it has a high total phenolic content and antioxidant activity, contributing to the reduction of systemic inflammation and neutralization of free radicals.
How to avoid contaminated cannabis
To minimize the risks of consuming contaminated cannabis, it is essential to purchase products from reliable sources. Opting for certified and regulated cannabis ensures it has undergone quality and safety testing. Verifying laboratory analysis is key to ensuring that pesticide, heavy metal, and other contaminant levels are within safe limits.
Proper storage also plays an important role in preventing contamination. Keeping cannabis in a dry, humidity-free environment reduces the risk of mold and mildew proliferation. Additionally, using airtight containers helps avoid exposure to external substances.
Another important aspect is to be informed about cultivation and production methods. Organically grown products tend to have fewer chemical residues. Likewise, extraction processes that use supercritical CO₂ instead of more aggressive solvents may be a safer option for concentrate consumers.
Regarding additives, whenever possible, opt for safe alternatives. For example, instead of using dangerous diluents, natural cannabis terpenes can be a suitable solution to adjust oil viscosity without compromising safety.
Recommendations for consumers
If you are a consumer, the main recommendation is to choose cannabis that has been tested by independent laboratories. Opting for products from legal and verified sources reduces the risk of contaminants. Also, when selecting an oil for vaping, be cautious with those of low viscosity, as they may contain unwanted substances. Using a vaporizer at the proper temperature is also a safer option compared to smoking, as it minimizes exposure to combustion products.
Participating in third-party certifications is also beneficial, as these certifications guarantee higher standards and greater safety in products. The more certifications a product has, the better it will be in terms of quality and safety.