Versatile and nutrient-dense, hemp seed oil offers a plethora of health benefits. Studies have shown that hemp seed oil can help do the following:
Support cardiovascular health
According to peer-reviewed published references, hemp seed oil features the superior form of omega-3 SDA, whose topical and ingestible applications have been associated with coronary heart disease/cardiovascular disease prevention as it decreases cholesterol blood fractions and triglycerides.
According to a study published in Nutrition and Metabolism, hemp seed oil contains all of the essential amino acids and high amounts of the amino acid arginine, which is converted to nitric acid oxide in the body – helping maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
The omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid in hemp seed oil is believed to support healthy cardiovascular function by helping maintain normal heart rhythm.
Support healthy cognitive function
Hemp seed oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is essential for the proper growth and functional development of the brain of infants and young children. In adults, DHA is also needed for the maintenance of normal cognitive function.
DHA accounts for 97 percent of the omega-3 fatty acids found in the brain and 25 percent of the brain's total fat content.
Support healthy immune function
The combined nutritional benefits of hemp seed oil play an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system by reducing inflammation and promoting strong immune defenses.
Vitamin C boosts immunity; calcium promotes healthy bones; magnesium reduces inflammation; vitamin E contributes to healthy skin to shield the body from infection; and iron is a key factor in the production of red blood cells. There is also an important protein in hemp seed oil known as globulin, which synthesizes antibodies that help the body fight infections.
Unlike fish oil, hemp seed oil offers the ideal 3:1 ratio of healthy omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which influences healthy immune function.
Since a huge part of the immune system is in the gut, hemp seed oil can further support healthy immune function by feeding the friendly bacteria in the gut.
Support musculoskeletal health
Hemp seed oil contains vitamins D3, E and A that have antioxidant properties that can override harmful molecules known as free radicals, and is one of only a few sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) – an essential fatty acid thought to be responsible for much of the anti-inflammatory properties that make up hemp seed oil popular with people suffering from arthritis and eczema.
Support digestive health
The good fatty acids in hemp seed oil could potentially promote good microbes in the gut flora, which assists in digestion.
Support healthy skin, hair and nails
Hemp seed oil is loaded with phenols and antioxidants, which help with the reduction of free radicals, contributing to a more youthful and naturally healthy body and skin. People who use hemp seed oil report having thicker and shinier hair, softer skin and stronger nails.
Hemp seed oil is high in antioxidant constituents, such as omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which helps maintain a healthy scalp and support the growth of healthy hair by ensuring that each strand retains enough moisture; omega-6 GLA, omega-3 SDA and vitamins A, C and E, which and give your skin some protection against premature aging and evening out skin tone. (Related: Hemp seed oil: The new healthy oil)
Hemp seed oil is an emollient (chemicals that remain in the stratum corneum or the outermost layer of the epidermis) that won't clog pores and maintain the skin’s softness, smoothness and elasticity.
Acting as a cleanser and lubricant, hemp seed oil is used as a facial serum to reverse dryness and scaling, fine lines and wrinkles and irritant contact dermatitis.
Of the many possible uses of hemp seed oil as a direct treatment, its efficacy in treating atopic dermatitis (eczema) is the most promising, according to a study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment.
But if you're trying hemp seed oil as a new skin care product for the first time, be on the lookout for any signs of sensitivity or irritation like redness, itching or rash.
Support sensible weight management goals
The omega-6 GLA in hemp seed oil may help reduce sugar cravings and potentially act as a natural appetite suppressant. This could lead to weight loss by making you consume fewer calories.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that previously obese individuals taking GLA supplements for a year managed to regain less weight once they stopped taking the supplements.
Learn more about the benefits of hemp seed oil at FoodIsMedicine.com.