Hemp energy drinks are non-alcoholic beverages that combine extracts from the industrial hemp plant, such as hemp seed oil or cannabidiol (CBD), with traditional stimulant ingredients. The short answer to whether these drinks cause a psychoactive effect is no; they do not get you “high.” Although hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, the hemp used in these consumer products is legally required to contain only trace amounts of the intoxicating compound. These beverages are designed to offer a boost of energy and focus, often with an added element of relaxation or general wellness associated with hemp extracts.
The Critical Ingredient: Understanding Trace THC Content
The chemical compound responsible for the intoxicating “high” is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Industrial hemp, the source material for these extracts, is legally defined in the United States as containing no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. This low concentration is why these products do not produce intoxication or psychoactive effects similar to marijuana.
Many hemp energy drinks use hemp seed extract, which is derived from the seeds and contains virtually no cannabinoids, including THC or CBD. Other drinks may be infused with CBD, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Even full-spectrum CBD extracts must adhere to the 0.3% THC federal limit.
This trace amount of THC is insufficient to trigger the neurological response needed for intoxication in humans. The low concentration ensures the product remains functional rather than mind-altering. Any perceived effect from the hemp component is typically attributed to the non-intoxicating CBD, which may promote a sense of calm or focus.
What Provides the Energy Effect
Since the hemp extract does not provide a psychoactive effect, the “energy” aspect of the drink comes from traditional stimulating additives. The primary source of the stimulating effect is typically caffeine, often sourced from natural ingredients like guarana or green tea extract. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, leading to increased alertness and reduced fatigue. Caffeine concentrations often range from 80 to over 150 milligrams per can, comparable to a standard cup of coffee.
Another common ingredient is taurine, an amino acid that plays a role in metabolism and muscle function. B vitamins, such as B6 and B12, are also universally included in energy drinks. These B vitamins assist in converting food into usable energy within the body, though they do not provide a sudden rush of energy themselves. Some formulations also include adaptogens like ginseng or L-theanine, an amino acid known to promote relaxation without sedation. The combination of caffeine and these other compounds produces the alertness and perceived energy boost.
Legal Status and Drug Testing Concerns
The legal status of hemp energy drinks stems from the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally legalized the cultivation and sale of hemp containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. This legislation permits the broad market availability of these beverages across state lines, provided they meet the strict THC concentration threshold. However, individual state regulations can still vary, sometimes creating a patchwork of legality.
A primary concern for consumers is the potential for these products to cause a positive result on a workplace drug screening. While the trace THC content is non-intoxicating, regular or high-volume consumption of full-spectrum hemp products can potentially lead to an accumulation of THC metabolites in the body. Most standard drug tests screen for these metabolites.
Although the risk is low, it is not zero, especially with products that may have inaccurate labeling or higher-than-advertised THC levels due to a lack of federal oversight on manufacturing. Individuals subject to drug testing should exercise caution, as the test cannot distinguish between THC consumed through a legal hemp product and THC consumed through marijuana. Choosing products labeled as “THC-free” or made with hemp seed oil may reduce the risk.