Medicinal Benefits of Hemp Seeds
Hemp, often known as industrial hemp or hemp hearts, is a cultivar of the Cannabis sativa plant that is farmed for industrial purposes.
Hemp is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet. Although both cannabis (marijuana) and industrial hemp are derived from the Cannabis sativa species and contain the psychoactive component tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), they are different strains with different phytochemical compositions and uses.
Hemp has lower THC concentrations (less than 3% THC is present in hemp seeds) which reduce or eliminate its psychoactive effects. Marijuana, on the other hand, is known for producing euphoric and psychoactive effects on the body because it contains more than 3% of THC.
Some medicinal/health benefits of hemp seeds are listed below:
Nutritious
Hemp seeds are the most significant element of the plant in terms of nutrients. The seeds can be consumed whole or unhulled. There are even hemp seed supplements on the market if you want to include some of hemp’s outstanding health benefits into your diet. Hemp seeds include vitamins, minerals, and compounds that can provide considerable health advantages. Hemp oil, for example, is high in vitamin E, which is good for keeping your immune system healthy. It also functions as an antioxidant.
Good for Heart
It’s critical to consume enough healthy fats in your diet to maintain your heart and circulatory system healthy. Hemp seeds, which are high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are particularly high in these beneficial fats. Both of these fats are recognized for lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglycerides, all of which are beneficial to heart health. Including hemp oil in your diet may lower your risk of heart disease in the future.
Aids in Digestion
Whole hemp seeds are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which is important for a healthy digestive system. Insoluble fiber bulks up your stool and has been related to a decreased risk of colon cancer. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, functions as a prebiotic, feeding the “good” bacteria in your intestines. Hemp seeds include both soluble and insoluble fiber, which help keep your digestive system functioning smoothly and avoid a variety of common ailments like constipation, ulcers, and hemorrhoids.
Relieves Symptoms of PMS
Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is likely to affect about 80% of women in their reproductive window (premenstrual syndrome). Hemp seeds contain a high quantity of GLA, or gamma-linolenic acid, which can help alleviate PMS symptoms and other health issues.
Treats Skin Disorders
Hemp seeds and their fatty acids can help you find relief if you have dry, dull skin or problems with eczema, inflammation, redness, or acne. Hemp seeds can be eaten or pure hemp seed oil can be used directly on the skin.
Hemp seed oil is one of the best sources of anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins.
Reduces Inflammation
Hemp seeds include fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation in the body. GLA (gamma-linoleic fatty acid) is abundant in hemp seeds, which aids in the treatment of ailments such as nerve damage, high blood pressure, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory issues.
Bone Health
People who ingest more magnesium have higher bone mineral density, which is important in reducing the incidence of fractures and osteoporosis.
Brain Health
Hemp seeds have the ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids for nutritional value. This balance is important for heart and brain health, but it’s commonly missing in ordinary diets. Terpenes are plant chemicals found in hemp seeds. While further research is needed, studies suggest that terpenes may aid in brain protection and tumor prevention.