Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa.
They are from the same species as cannabis (marijuana) but a different variety, as they do not produce a mind-altering effect.
Infact these small, brown seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and healthful fatty acids, including omega-3s and omega-6s. They have antioxidant effects and may reduce symptoms of numerous ailments, improving the health of the heart, skin, and joints.
Here we present the health benefits of hemp seeds
1. Incredibly Nutritious
Hemp seeds are a great source of vitamin E and minerals, such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc.
Hemp seeds contain over 30% fat. They are exceptionally rich in two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).
Hemp seeds contain almost as much protein as soybeans. In every 30 grams (g) of seeds, or about 3 tablespoons, there are 9.46 g of protein.
Hemp seeds are also rich in an amino acid called arginine, which has benefits for heart health.
2. Reduce inflammation
Hemp seeds are a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid which may also have anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, the amount of omega-3s in hemp seeds and the seeds’ healthful omega-3 to omega-6 ratio can together help to reduce inflammation.
3. Improve skin conditions
Atopic dermatitis (AD) and acne can both result from chronic inflammation. The anti-inflammatory compounds in hemp seeds may help. Hemp seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated and essential fatty acids.
We can also find anti-oxidants (which protect our cells), vitamins such as A and E, minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium and phosphorus, which all help to “feed” the skin. There are also amino acids in hemp which are used in the synthesis of elastin and collagen, two important substances that guard against sagging in the skin and wrinkles.
4. Boost heart health
Hemp seeds contain high levels of omega-3s and a healthful ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.
The seeds also contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that turns into nitric oxide, which may help to protect against cardiovascular disease by indirectly dilating and relaxing our blood vessels and by reducing inflammation. Hemp oil in the diet are associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of blood clots.
5. Aid Digestion
Hemp consists high amount of fiber which is an essential part of your diet and linked to better digestive health.
Whole hemp seeds are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, containing 20% and 80%, respectively.
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool and may help food and waste pass through your gut.
Soluble fibers are thought to benefit the good bacteria in our gut, which is particularly useful when these may be knocked off balance (for example, following antibiotic use or if the diet has been poor).
6. Help with Hormones
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in hemp seeds, produces prostaglandin E1, which reduces the effects of prolactin.
Research suggests that the emotional changes experienced during cases of PMS may be caused by the hormone prolactin and that GLA can dampen the effects of prolactin via its stimulation of certain prostaglandins.
Hemp may also reduce other premenstrual symptoms, such as breast tenderness, bloating, fluid retention and cravings. Empirical evidence suggests that some women who use hemp seeds in their diet or take a hemp seed oil find that this eases their hormonal “mood swings”.
Thanks to its generous nutritional profile and therapeutically active constituents, hemp has the potential to help many systems of the body, including our largest organ, the skin. Hemp products allow us to work with the plant both internally and externally to address a diverse range of health issues.