Hemp oil is the oil from the seeds of the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa), and do not have any drug-like properties normally associated with the flowers or leaf. Hemp plant seed or Ma Zi in Chinese medicine has been used for degenerative conditions and inflammatory conditions of the intestines.
Hemp oil is primarily used as a food for the essential fatty acids it contains. It is unique as it provides a near perfect balance of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids. The ratio of around 3:1 (omega-6:omega-3) is thought to be the right balance for optimum human nutrition. An analysis shows that it contains:
56.9 %Linoleic acid and 1.7% Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) – Omega-6
18.9% Alpha linolenic Acid – Omega-3
Vitamin E – natural Antioxidant protection for the oil
Sterols – help to block cholesterol
Unrefined Hemp oil can be used for cooking in place of olive or safflower oils. It has a unique nutty flavour and adds EFA.’s essential fatty acids) as well as other nutrients to the diet. Refined oil is a more clear and lighter which is beneficial for use in making soaps, body and Aromatherapy products. Hemp seeds themselves are very high in protein (25%) and dietary fibre, but yield around 40% oil. They are used in snack bars and can be sprinkled onto breakfast Cereals.
Other parts of the hemp plant such as the stems supply a tough fibre, which is used commercially to make rope, paper and clothing.
Hemp oil Supplementation
Hemp oil supplements are often used in place of other oils for its unique fatty acid content, which are important at maintaining general health.
It must be however noted that Hemp oil does not contain high levels of GLA compared to other sources. ie evening primrose oil (10%), Borage oil (Starflower oil) (at 24% GLA) and Blackcurrant seed oil (at 18% GLA). The body can potentially make GLA from the high amounts of linoleic acid in hemp, but the conversion is difficult if there are other nutritional deficiencies. GLA is an important fatty acid as it is easily converted into the beneficial prostaglandins E1 needed to maintain good health and in many cases treat a variety of health disorders. Most GLA research is based on the use of Evening Primrose Oil. Hemp oil is therefore not a direct replacement for GLA supplements.
In addition to the above it must be noted that the western diet typically already contains high levels of linoleic acid (omega 6) and relatively low levels of alpha linolenic acid (omega-3). It may therefore wise to be concentrating on consuming more foods like oily Fish or taking Flaxseed oil or Fish-oil supplements to boost the omega-3 fats that are often deficient.
Other Hemp oil Information
Hemp oil supplements are available as liquid oil or found in capsules. It is advisable to take extra Vitamin E when using any fatty acid supplements to help protect them and prevent oxidation in the body.
Side Effects of Hemp oil
Hemp oil products should only be purchased if they contain are low levels or no THC (delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol). Always use a reputable brand.
There are generally no side effects from taking Hemp oil supplements.
When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with the herb Hemp oil supplements.
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