Essential oils such as hemp oil have improved the lives of people for hundreds of years by offering a variety of benefits, from religious and spiritual to dietary and cosmetic.
The power of essential oils is accessed in many ways, but the most common practices include topical application, aromatic diffusion and oral consumption.
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is an essential oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant. In many regions, hemp is cultivated for industrial production to extract the oil. Unrefined, cold pressed hemp oil is nutty in flavor and light green in color.
Hemp seeds are rich in omega 3, omega 6, polyunsaturated fatty acids, protein and insoluble fiber. They are also packed with minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and zinc.
Large traces of microelements like thorium, chromium and strontium are also present in hemp seeds. Therefore, the hemp oil extracted from these seeds have immense health benefits.
Uses and Benefits of Hemp Oil
Being rich in its nutritional quotient, hemp oil is widely used for medicinal purposes and to boost overall health.
Listed below are some uses and benefits of hemp oil.
1. Maintains hormonal balance
Hemp oil is an edible oil that contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). In the body, GLA gets converted to the prostaglandin hormone that supports menopausal health and regulates hormonal balance.
2. Lowers cholesterol
Hemp oil is the only vegetable oil that contains the optimal ratio of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. When consumed, it increases metabolism and reduces cholesterol levels, burning fat at an accelerated rate.
3. Prevents psoriasis
Psoriasis occurs due to the deficiency of omega-6 fatty acids in the body. Since hemp is rich in these fatty acids, it improves hydration and oxygenation in the skin, thus treating psoriasis.
4. Prevents varicose veins
Rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, hemp oil helps to reduce blood clots, thin the blood and prevent varicose veins.
5. Good for diabetics
Due to its low sugar and carbohydrate content, hemp oil is considered an excellent source for diabetics as it works to regulate and keep blood sugar levels in check.
6. Regenerates skin
Since this oil is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, its properties are similar to skin lipids, making it an excellent skin moisturizer. Hemp oil is extensively used to treat dehydrated skin and nails and is also included in several hair conditioners.
7. Prevents damage to the nervous system
The right composition of fatty acids is essential for a healthy cell membrane. Since hemp oil is rich in fatty acids, it prevents demyelination, the degeneration and destruction of the myelin sheath, which protects the nerve cells in the body.
8. Aids weight loss
The presence of fatty acids and other nutrients works as a natural appetite suppressant. By replacing other oils with hemp oil, you will feel full longer, reduce calorie intake and aid weight loss.
9. Boosts overall immunity
The rich nutritional content of hemp oil helps improve internal body flora by building a barrier against foreign microbes, boosting immunity.
Side Effects of Hemp Oil:
When used irresponsibly and in excess, hemp oil can cause severe side effects, such as the ones listed below, and can be unsafe for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding.
- Cardiac problems and strokes
- Digestive problems such as stomach cramps and diarrhea
- Hallucinations
- Blood coagulation
If hemp oil is used in the right proportion, one can extract immense benefits from it. Make sure to contact your health practitioner to receive the correct dosage and consumption techniques to thoroughly reap the benefits.
