Cannabis sativa L, the hemp plant, is a natural wonder. Not only can it produce an uplifting psychoactive high through Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol, but it supplies numerous health benefits in the form of hemp seed oil.
Not to be confused withcannabidiol (CBD) oil,Delta-8, or Delta-9 THC, hemp oil is made through the cold-pressing of the hemp seeds. Since the oil comes from the seeds and not the leaves, flowers, or stem of the cannabis sativa plant, it has no THC.
Some may be disappointed that hemp seed oil doesn’t produce a THC high. However, it has so many health benefits that can far outshine the ephemeral pleasure of a hazy afternoon. Here we will present 10 great health benefits of this amazing hemp seed oil from the cannabis plant:
1. Fights Inflammation
Hemp seed oil is a great source of omegas 3, 6, and 9. The omega-3 fatty acids haveanti-inflammatory benefits. Inflammation is the cause of loads of conditions ranging from cancer to rheumatoid arthritis to PMS. Here are some of the helpful fatty acids that can fight inflammation:
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EFAs: The three essential fatty acids (EFAs) are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA),eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALAis essential for cell membranes and helps fight inflammation. Additionally EPA and DHA both reduce inflammation, though DHA is more effective.
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SDA: Also featured in this oil is a superior omega-3 known as stearidonic acid (SDA), which is found in a potent form. SDA efficiently converts to EPA in your body.
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GLA: Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid produced in our bodies through the conversion of linoleic acid (LA). It is helpful in the reduction of inflammation. GLA is a building block for prostaglandins, which are important for reducing LA inflammatory pathways in the body.
Hemp seed oil supplies just the right ratio of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids that we need. A ratio of 3:1 omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids is exactly what is required for humans long term consumption. It is highly unusual for foods to naturally provide the right ratio, which earns hemp oil the name “Nature’s most perfectly balanced oil.”
While fish oil is well known for being a good source of EFAs, it just can’t measure up to hemp seed oil’s perfect ratio. Additionally, you won’t have that fishy breath after taking a supplement, making hemp oil a great alternative.
2. Neutralizes Skin Conditions
Due to hemp seed oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can be helpful for a variety of skin conditions. People who suffer from eczema or psoriasis cannot convert LA to GLA due to a deficiency of delta-6-desaturase. These people could benefit from the GLA present in hemp oil. GLA helps regulate the immune system, which in turn helps reduce irritation that takes the form of psoriasis or eczema flare-ups.
EPA and DHA have been shown to be especially helpful forpsoriasis. The evidence suggests that if hemp seed oil is applied directly to the scalp, it can reduce scalp problems like dryness, itchiness, and dandruff, as well as treat psoriasis.
It can also relieve atopic dermatitis, itchy skin, and acne with consistent use. This will improve the skin’s general appearance. If applied topically, the oil will strengthen the skin and allow it to resist viral, fungal, and bacterial infections.
3. Provides Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails
Hemp seed oil can make you better-looking. No joke. Not only does it fight inflammation and many awful health conditions, but it can also help improve our appearance. This is done through the application to our hair, skin, and nails. Here is how hemp seed oil can contribute to your devilish good looks:
- Moisturizes dry skin:GLA, LA, and ALA fatty acids act as moisturizers to fight dry skin. The oil is easily absorbed by our skin and helps to prevent the loss of moisture. So not only can hemp oil help with inflammation that occurs on the skin, it can soothe dryness with its nourishing moisture. No more flaky skin!
- Regulates oil production:Hemp oil works for most skin types by moisturizing it without clogging your pores. This can help balance out oily skin and at the same time can regulate the oil production on your face. No more shiny face!
- Anti-aging:Hemp oil has anti-aging properties due to its many antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the skin against free radicals that can negatively affect it like sun damage. The oil can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and promote collagen production. Who doesn’t want to look a little younger?
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Supplies protein for strong skin and hair:Hemp seed is a great source of protein, providing almost 7 grams in 2 tablespoons. This is equal to the amount of protein found in two egg whites. Protein is essential for the growth and repair of our bodies; acting as the building blocks of everything from our organs, muscles, bones, skin, and hair.
Hemp seed protein is not typical in that it contains all essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein. It contains all 20 known amino acids, not to mention all 9 of the essential amino acids.
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Faster growing nails: Not only is it a great addition to your skincare routine, but it can be beneficial for nails as well. You can massage hemp oil into your nails for faster growth, stronger nails, and to repair cuticles.
- Thicker hair: Additionally it can strengthen brittle hair and at the same time add shine and moisture. You may even see your hair growing thicker. And thick, shiny hair is one of the indicators of good health.
For all of these uses, hemp seed oil can be applied as a topical agent or ingested. This is the perfect natural beauty secret.
4. Contributes to a Healthy Heart
Hemp oil contains sterols or steroid alcohols that may lower LDL cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that can cause or block arteries. Lowering these levels not only helps prevent heart attacks, but it can also reduce the risk of heart disease.
It also contains aliphatic alcohols that can reduce platelet aggregation which leads to blood clots. Hemp oil’s polyunsaturated fatty acids omega 3s and omega 6s support heart health through the slowing of plaque buildup in arteries and lowering blood pressure.
GLA in hemp seed is said to reduce inflammation which can prevent cardiovascular disease that is typically caused by inflammation.
Not only can it help lower blood pressure, but it can also regulate blood glucose levels in those with diabetes. Hemp is full of unsaturated fats. It is low in carbohydrates and rich in protein, making it a great option for diabetics. Hemp oil can help with diabetic neuropathy pain and gain control of blood sugar.
5. Improves Digestive Health
About 65% of hemp seed protein is made of the globulin protein known as Edestin that is found exclusively in hemp seed. It aids in digestion and is the backbone of the cell’s DNA.
The omega-3 essential fatty acids, DHA and EPA are known to synthesize compounds called eicosanoids that regulate hormones and digestive juices. The omega-3s present can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. This implies that it may relieve some digestive tract problems like inflammatory bowel disorder.
These fatty acids also promote the good microbes in the gut flora, thus improving the overall digestive health.
6. Neuroprotective Properties
Hemp seed can contribute greatly to brain health. This oil contains antioxidants such as tocopherol that are beneficial for degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and atherosclerosis.
The healthy fats contained in the oil can stimulate optimal brain functioning. This means they can improve memory, as well as prevent age-related brain function decline. It may alsoprotect the brain due to the polyphenol content.
And with the help of magnesium and fatty acids, you may see a decrease in the symptoms of depression and anxiety. People suffering from depression often are deficient in magnesium. This is also a common symptom of insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Supplying the right amount of magnesium is a good way to fight depression, anxiety, and stress, which all allow for better sleep.
7. Boosts Immune System
The EFAs in hemp seed oil also helps the body synthesize endocannabinoids. It is these endocannabinoids function to strengthen the immune system. As a result, hemp oil can help enhance the immune system.
And since omega-3s are thought to act as a prebiotic in the bowels, this can also support a better immune system through a healthier gut biome.
8. Pain Relief
Hemp seed oil can be a natural pain reliever to treat body aches, pains, and soreness that has become chronic. It works as an analgesic both when applied topically or ingested. It can be used alongside normal medications to help soothe you without serious side effects.
Use it as a muscle relaxant if you are someone who is normally engaged in high adrenaline activities or sports. These things can often bring about problems with muscles over time which can cause difficult chronic pain. Hemp oil can be used as a massage oil to soothe and relax these muscles.
This works in combination with the oil’s anti-inflammatory effects. It can be particularly helpful for people with the following:
- Injuries
- Infections
- Arthritis
- Rheumatoid joint inflammation
- Osteoarthritis
- Autoimmune disorders that cause pain
9. Adds Nutrition to Your Diet
This oil is full of nutrients that contribute to your health and wellness. Here are a few of them:
- Antioxidants (vitamin E)
- Carotene (precursor to vitamin A)
- Phytosterols
- Phospholipids
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Sulfur
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
- Zinc
And due to hemp seed oil’s high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, it makes it easy for your body to metabolize fat. GLA can reduce sugar cravings and is known as a natural appetite suppressant, allowing you to lose weight by taking in fewer calories.
It is a good idea to take 1 to 2 teaspoons daily, either at one time or divided into two doses.
An even better way to benefit from this oil nutritionally is as a culinary ingredient. We don’t recommend you cook with it as it has a low smoke point unless you are using very low heat. However, it can be added to salads, sauces, pestos, smoothies, and more.
Switch your olive oil out for hemp seed oil. It has a similar flavor profile but with less saturated fats and more omega-3s. No wonder it is called one of the world’s healthiest oils!
10. Helps Balance Hormones
GLA in hemp seed oil may also improve hormone health. This is especially seen in the reduction of PMS and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it can help older women as they go through menopause, reducing symptoms like:
- Anxiety, irritation, paranoia
- Night sweats and insomnia
- Hot flashes and chills
- Thinning hair, dry skin, and bone loss
- Unbalanced cholesterol levels
In menopausal women, hemp seed oil provides essential vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, fiber, and GLA to combat these symptoms. GLA does not increase estrogen production, but it can counteract the negative effects of prolactin sensitivity in menopausal women.
The great thing about hemp oil is that it has little to no side effects, making it a great supplementation to regular treatments.
A Staple for Your Household
Hemp seed oil is a great alternative for those who still want to benefit from the cannabis plant but without apsychoactive high. This oil provides so many health benefits, anywhere from clearing up your IBS to neutralizing the pain and inflammation of your arthritis. You can put it on a salad, or you could put it on your face. This versatile oil should be a staple in every household!
As a disclaimer, we want to state that this content is for informational purposes only. It is not provided to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or ailment. It should not be interpreted as instruction or medical advice to displace the advice of your doctor or other medical professionals. We recommend talking to your doctor to prepare a treatment plan for any diseases or ailments.