Hemp seeds are seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis Sativa. Hemp seeds are closely associated with the Cannabis (marijuana) plant species but they do not contain the psychoactive drug (THC) present in marijuana. Only trace amounts, less than 0.3% of THC is present in hemp seeds. The drug, THC, is responsible for the euphoric effects (mind-altering effects) caused by marijuana.
Highly nutritious
Hemp seeds are commonly eaten superfoods that are also known as hemp hearts. Fitness freaks love hemp seeds due to their various health benefits. They are incredibly nutritious as they are rich in healthy fats, fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6. They are also rich in proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. They provide a range of health benefits. They are used to treat and prevent various health problems. They improve heart health. They are also good for skin health and joint health. Hemp seeds are nuts that are eaten raw.
Following are the health benefits associated with hemp seeds.
Health benefits
Hemp seeds contain 30% fat. It contains a healthy balance of essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6. A healthy balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 is extremely beneficial to the body as it is known to improve heart and brain health. Hemp seeds are also rich in Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Gamma-linolenic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and thus can be used to treat inflammatory diseases.
Protein
Hemp seeds also contain high-quality protein; nearly 25% of calories present in hemp seeds come from protein. There are several health benefits of consuming hemp seeds. One such benefit is it contains essential amino acids and essential amino acids (which are extremely vital for health) are not produced by the body. It can only be obtained from the diet. For example, arginine, which is an essential amino acid present in hemp seeds, produces nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is known to lower the blood pressure of the body and decrease the risk of the formation of blood clots in the body.
Vitamins and minerals
Hemp seeds are also rich in vitamin E and minerals like sodium, potassium, sulfur, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, zinc, etc. Hemp seed oil, used for both food and medicine purposes, reduces the risk of heart diseases like stroke and heart attack. It also lowers the blood pressure of the body.
Relieves the symptoms of PMS and menopause
The high levels of GLA present in hemp seeds can relieve the symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and menopause. Generally, people consume too many Omega-6 and very little Omega-3 but hemp seeds offer a healthy balance of Omega-6 and Omega-3. Omega-6 and Omega-3 are present in hemp seeds in a 3:1 ratio. A healthy balance of Omega-6 and Omega-3 can help promote good skin health and can help relieve various skin allergies.
Source of fibers
Whole hemp seeds are a great source of fibers that can help aid in digestion. It contains 20% soluble fibers and 80% insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers regulate cholesterol levels and help decrease blood sugar levels whereas insoluble fibers are known to decrease the risk of diabetes. Hemp hearts contain very little fiber as the shells are removed in hemp hearts. Whole hemp seeds contain shells and thus, contain fibers as well.
Uses of hemp seeds
It can be used as cooking oil, hair conditioner, and skin moisturizer.
Hemp seed oil can also be used to treat eczema which is a skin disorder characterized by itchy, inflamed, swollen, dry, flaky, and irritated skin. The anti-inflammatory properties present in hemp seed oil can effectively treat the symptoms of eczema. It is an incredible medicinal plant.
