Did you know hemp seed oil is a healthier alternative than most vegetable oils? It’s an extremely versatile oil, and can be used for everything from salad dressing to everyday cooking. The combined health and nutritional benefits of hemp seed oil are a great way to improve your overall wellness.
In this article we’ll cover some of the top benefits of hemp seed oil, and why you should consider adding it to your daily regimen.
What is Hemp Seed Oil?
Hemp seed oil is obtained from the seeds of hemp plants through an extraction process known as “cold pressing”. The resulting oil is rich in linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and gamma-linoleic acid. The benefits of hemp seed oil are mainly attributed to the high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 fats, which can be up to twice the amounts found in canola oil.
The Role Of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids In Hemp Seed Oil
The high levels of polyunsaturated fats in hemp seed oil can do a lot for your health. Some of these benefits include:
Blood Pressure
The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seed oil can have a significant impact on lowering blood pressure in hypertension patients. Linoleic acid also leads to reduced bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and total cholesterol. Reduced cholesterol levels are directly related to reducing the risk of heart diseases, heart attack, stroke, and abnormal blood pressure.
Hearth Health
Hemp seed oil is a rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a ratio of 3:1, which studies have shown to be ideal for human health. This specific ratio of fatty acids helps to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood.
The hemp seed oil also contains a lipase enzyme that helps reduce the buildup of plaque in cell membranes and blood vessels, and the presence of arginine amino acids helps to dilate and relax the blood vessels. In this way, hemp seed oil helps to reduce inflammation, blood pressure, and heart disease.
Hair Growth
The fatty acids in hemp seed oil help to add more shine and moisture to the hair, and studies have shown that applying hemp seed oil on the scalp can help reduce itchiness, dandruff, dryness, and psoriasis.
Digestive Health
Omega-3 fatty acids in the hemp seed help regulate the enzymes and hormones related to digestive health. These fatty acids also offer anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce the chances of inflammation in the digestive and gastrointestinal tracts. These fatty acids also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which helps to improve digestion.
Preventing Pregnancy Issues
The omega-3 fatty acids found in hemp seed oil act as an excellent supplement for pregnant women. Studies have shown that regular and adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids is critically important during pregnancy, as it is a building block for the development of the retina and brain of the fetus. It has also been reported that the use of hemp seed oil can help prevent depression during pregnancy and ease the process of giving birth.
Uses in Diabetes treatment
An imbalance in fatty acids can have a negative effect on the health of diabetes patients and may be improved by the consumption of hemp seed oil. According to the Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research, Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce triglyceride levels significantly. Another study found that treatment with omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce protein levels in the urine, an important indicator in kidney health in diabetics.
Additional Benefits Of Hemp Seed Oil
The polyunsaturated fats from hemp seed oil provide a significant number of health benefits, but they don’t stop there. Hemp seed oil can provide a number of other health benefits, including:
Antibacterial Properties
Hemp seed oil has been found to have antibacterial properties and can be used to fight against different types of bacterial infections. A 2014 study from NC State University showed that hemp seed oil had “pronounced antibacterial activity” against various bacteria, including Staphylococcus and E. Coli. These antibacterial properties make it an ideal choice for wound dressings, skin treatments, mouth wash, toothpaste, and antiseptic ointments.
Weight Loss
Hemp seed oil contains gamma-linoleic acid, which can help reduce sugar cravings and suppresses the appetite. Gamma linoleic acids also help prevent the regaining of weight after being lost!
Skin Health
Regular use of hemp seed oil has been shown to improve skin health and texture. This oil is helpful to treat eczema, acne, psoriasis, minor abrasions, dermatitis, itchiness, and infections. It also makes for a great moisturizer!
The oil is beneficial as a rich source of fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients, and can even lead to a visual improvement in the skin after regular use. Plus it strengthens the skin to fight against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Hormonal Balance
The hemp seed oil contains a significant proportion of gamma linoleic acid, which is required for the synthesis of prostaglandins. These lipid compounds control hormone-like effects such as inflammation, blood flow, the formation of blood clots, and the induction of labor.
These acids can improve hormonal balance and reduce menstrual cramps, depression, irritability, anxiety, swelling, and breast tenderness. They can also improve the hormonal health and balance in older women undergoing menopause, and associated symptoms such as depression, irritability, and hot flashes.
Enhanced Brain Functionality
The hemp seed oil contains lower levels of cannabinoids, which help to reduce anxiety and stress in people suffering from anxiety disorders. It can also reduce depression and improve memory. These oils are also being studied for the prevention or reduction of a variety of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and neurological cancers. These studies have not entered clinical trials, but appear promising.
Reduced Pain
Hemp seed oil is a natural source for pain relief through either oral consumption or topical application. It can also help to reduce pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Hemp oil can be used to help relieve pain through massage by rubbing it directly on sore muscles or joints. Hemp seed oil can be a great substitute for people who are not interested in pharmaceutical pain killers.
Reduced Risk Cancer
Hemp seed oil and the related gamma linoleic acids, tetrahydrocannabinol, and fatty acids are being studied as promising anti-cancer treatments. Animal-based studies have shown that hemp seed oil can help prevent or inhibit the tumor production and development of cancer cells.
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