Hemp seed oil is derived from hemp plant seeds. Cold-pressing is used for extraction, similar to how olives are cold-pressed to make olive oil.
Although the hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants are members of the same plant family, Cannabis sativa L, they are two distinct plants with distinct compositions. The amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) present in each plant is the most noticeable difference. The psychoactive component of the cannabis plant is THC. This is the chemical that causes you to feel "high."
While the cannabis plant has high THC levels (up to 28%), the hemp plant has a THC concentration of less than 0.3 percent. As a result, hemp-derived products are unlikely to produce a "high" and are primarily used for medicinal purposes.
Health Advantages
Hemp seed oil has numerous health benefits due to its high content of three polyunsaturated fatty acids: linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and gamma-linolenic acid. Furthermore, its omega-6 (linoleic acid) to omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) fatty acid ratio is 3:1.
Experts agree that a 3:1 fatty acid ratio is ideal for human health benefits.
The following health benefits are provided by hemp seed oil:
Improved Skin
A dermatology study discovered that taking hemp seed oil orally improves symptoms of atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. These findings are attributed to the fatty acids found in hemp seed oil, according to the researchers.
Hemp seed oil can also be used to treat other skin conditions like cradle cap, psoriasis, and acne. Furthermore, hemp seed oil strengthens the skin and improves its resistance to infection.
Reduce Blood Pressure
People with high blood pressure can benefit from the omega-3 fatty acids found in hemp seed oil (high blood pressure). To lower blood pressure, research suggests taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements along with blood pressure medication.
Encourages Heart Health
Linoleic acid is abundant in hemp seed oil. A diet high in linoleic acid has been shown in studies to significantly lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol.
Lowering your cholesterol levels lowers your risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.
Pain Relieving
The anti-inflammatory properties of hemp seed oil aid in pain relief. For natural pain relief, apply hemp seed oil directly to the painful area.
Reducing Inflammation
Hemp seed oil contains gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), which has been shown to reduce inflammation. A review of studies suggests that natural herbs high in GLA can help with the symptoms of inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS).
Promotes a Healthy Pregnancy
Because of its high omega-3 fatty acid content, hemp seed oil is an excellent supplement for pregnant women. According to research, omega-3 fatty acids are essential during pregnancy. They promote healthy brain and eye development in the baby and may aid in the prevention of maternal depression.
Health Dangers
Although hemp seed oil has numerous health benefits, it is critical to be aware of the potential risks.
Reduce Blood Pressure
The ability of hemp seed oil to lower blood pressure may cause problems for people who have chronically low blood pressure. Hypotension (low blood pressure) can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Extensive bed rest
- Pregnancy
- Significant blood loss
- Medications
- Heart problems
- Endocrine problems (hormone imbalances)
- Septic shock (a severe infection)
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Neurally mediated hypotension (miscommunication between the heart and the brain)
Before using hemp seed oil, consult your doctor if you have any of the health conditions listed above.
Low blood pressure also raises the possibility of complications and death during surgery. Your doctor may advise you to discontinue using hemp seed oil prior to and after surgery.
Dosage and Amounts
While the Food and Drug Administration does not recommend a daily allowance (RDA) for hemp seed oil, you may wish to consume it to reap its health benefits.
The amount of hemp seed oil you take is determined by how you intend to use it and the health benefits you seek. Three tablespoons of hemp seed oil per day, according to researchers, can provide the necessary 3:1 fatty acid ratio for a healthy diet.
You can consume hemp seed oil on its own or combine it with salad dressings or other foods. You can also substitute hemp seed oil for olive oil in cooking.
One tablespoon (15 millilitres) of hemp seed oil contains:
- 125 calories
- 14 grams total fat
- 1 gram of saturated fatty acids
- 2 grams of monounsaturated fatty acids
11 grams polyunsaturated fatty acids
Before taking hemp seed oil, as with any other oral supplement, consult with your doctor.
If you're going to use hemp seed oil topically, start with a small amount to see if it causes skin irritation. Hemp seed oil is also useful as a carrier oil for essential oil blends.
