Organic hemp seed oil is a cold-pressed oil extracted from seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa L. Although hemp and marijuana belong to the same plant family, they are different plants with different compositions. The most notable difference is the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that makes you feel “high”. Hemp has very low levels of THC (less than 0.3%), while marijuana has high levels of THC (up to 28%). Therefore, hemp products are legal and safe to use, while marijuana products are restricted and may have adverse effects.
One of the main benefits of organic hemp seed oil is its high content of essential fatty acids (EFAs), which are vital for the normal functioning of all body systems. EFAs are polyunsaturated fats that cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from food. Hemp seed oil contains omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids in a ratio of 3:1, which is considered to be ideal for human health. Hemp seed oil also contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory and hormone-regulating properties.
In addition to EFAs, organic hemp seed oil also provides a range of other nutrients, such as antioxidants, carotene, phytosterols, phospholipids, chlorophyll and minerals. These nutrients have various roles in supporting the immune system, skin health, cardiovascular health, brain health and more.
Organic Hemp Seed Oil for Inflammation
One of the most researched benefits of organic hemp seed oil is its ability to reduce inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. Hemp seed oil contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the production of inflammatory mediators. Hemp seed oil also contains GLA, which has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the enzyme that converts arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins.
A 2011 study suggests that adding omega-3s, such as those found in hemp seed oil, to your diet can reduce inflammation. A 2015 study indicates that natural herbs rich in GLA, such as hemp seed oil, are effective in relieving symptoms of inflammatory conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS).
Organic Hemp Seed Oil for Skin Health
Another well-known benefit of organic hemp seed oil is its positive impact on skin health. Hemp seed oil is rich in EFAs and antioxidants, which nourish and protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. Hemp seed oil also has antibacterial properties that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria on the skin.
Hemp seed oil can help treat various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and lichen planus. A 2014 study concludes that hemp seed oil (nonpsychotropic phytocannabinoid cannabidiol) is a potent and potentially universal anti-acne treatment. A 2005 study shows that dietary hemp seed oil resulted in the improvement of eczema symptoms. A 2014 article indicates that hemp seed oil is useful for the treatment of lichen planus. A 2015 study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis.
Hemp seed oil can also improve the appearance and elasticity of the skin by increasing its moisture content and reducing transepidermal water loss. Hemp seed oil can also strengthen the skin barrier and make it more resistant to viral, bacterial and fungal infections.
Organic Hemp Seed Oil for Hormonal Balance
Organic hemp seed oil may also have benefits for hormonal balance, especially for women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopause. Hemp seed oil contains GLA, which can help regulate hormone levels by influencing the activity of prolactin, a hormone that can cause PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings and irritability.
A 2011 study shows that women with PMS who took 1 gram of fatty acids that included 210 mg of GLA experienced a notable decrease in symptoms. Hemp seed oil may also help alleviate menopausal symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving skin health and supporting cardiovascular health. A 2010 study of rats indicates that hemp seed helps to protect against complications of menopause, most likely because of its high levels of GLA.
How to Use Organic Hemp Seed Oil
Organic hemp seed oil can be used both internally and externally for its health benefits. You can take hemp seed oil as a dietary supplement by adding it to your smoothies, salads, soups or other dishes. The recommended dosage is 1 to 2 tablespoons per day, depending on your health goals and needs. You can also apply hemp seed oil directly to your skin as a moisturizer, cleanser, massage oil or healing agent. You can also mix hemp seed oil with other carrier oils or essential oils for added benefits.
Organic hemp seed oil is a natural and safe product that can provide many health benefits for your body and mind. By incorporating hemp seed oil into your daily routine, you can enjoy its anti-inflammatory, skin-friendly, hormone-balancing and heart-healthy properties. However, before using hemp seed oil, make sure to consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions or allergies, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, make sure to buy organic hemp seed oil from a reputable source that guarantees its quality and purity.