Hemp seed oil is the oil with multiple characteristics. Produced from the plants of the Cannabis genus, it is an odourless and flavourless oil. It essentially contains 80 % fatty acids yielding adinosine triphosphate useful to human metabolism. Due to the adequate omega-6 to omega-3 ratio (3:1), it is very beneficial for heart and protects against a number of cardiovascular disease. It penetrates the body cells and lubricates the layers between them. Though there are plenty of its benefits, one need to consume a significant quantity of hemp oil to utilise its full benefits. Not only in cooking, the oil is used for several purposes and is extensively used in construction, paper, textile, biodegradable plastics industry. Sometimes it is also used as a fuel. It can be easily obtained as it is produced in different countries across the world, especially in Canada, France and China. The manifold benefits of hemp seed oil are shared in the next sub-section.
Benefits of Hemp Oil
- Hemp seed oil has omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the ratio of 3:1 and hence it is beneficial for the heart.
- This excellent ratio of fatty acids also helps in lessening the symptoms of skin ailments like acne, psoriasis and eczema.
- Hemp seed oil is rich in vitamin D, which makes it helpful in absorption of calcium, especially in vegetarians.
- The oil helps to get silky, thick hair, stronger nails and much softer skin.
- As it contains a suffice amount of omega-9 fatty acids, calcium and potassium, it provides moisture to the skin, detoxifies and cleans the skin without blocking the pores.
- Hemp seed oil protects against a number of diseases including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- Hemp seed oil is also beneficial in many women health related issues including premenstrual issues.
- It is an appropriate substitute to fish oil which is often reported to be adulterated by various toxins including mercury.
- Hemp seed oil is a natural antioxidant with amino acids and vitamin E. Unlike other oils, it does not leave a sticky taste on your tongue on consumption.
- It provides a shield against the overexposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. And hence, is considered as a natural sun block.
- Hemp seed oil has proved to be a safe consumable substance for those with intolerability for nuts, gluten, lactose, and sugar. Researches have also not detected any kind of allergy from their consumption.
- As hemp seeds do not contain gluten, the possibility of celiac diseases is negligible through consumption of its oil.
- Athletes and people incapable of tolerating high dose of essential fatty acids can consume it to balance the needed fatty acid.
- This is an energy booster solution which keeps one active throughout the day. Also it has advantage over other oils as it helps to maintain stable positive attitude and eliminates stress.
- Hemp seed oil works for weight conscious people as it provides longer appetite satisfaction which in turn helps one lose weight significantly.
- Hemp seed oil directly aids the functioning of immune, reproductive, and central nervous systems.
- There are a number of degenerative diseases which can be cured with the help of hemp seed and its oil. These include high cholesterol, high blood pressure and blood sugar, obesity, constipation, depression, fatigue and arthritis.
Suggestions For Cooking
- Hemp seeds can be consumed unprocessed or ground into a meal. You may also take it as hemp milk or tea enriched with hemp. It is also used in baking.
- Hemp Seeds can be added in cereal or oatmeal, and can also be used as a topping to a baked potato.
- Enhance the food experience with utilization of hemp seeds in baked foods, salads, dips, sauces and in many other dishes of your choice.
To sum up, hemp seed oil comes with a number of benefits. This might be the reason that the hemp seeds are often referred to as the ‘Nature’s perfect food for humanity’.