The hemp plant, cannabis Sativa contains seeds called hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are highly nutritious and contain large content of healthy fats, minerals, and proteins. Hemp is a hearty plant that grows very quickly in very diverse soil conditions. From the past years, China has been the largest hemp producer and other countries such as Australia and Canada are catching up. Under the marijuana prohibition act, it is illegal to grow hemp in the United State. The protein that presents in hemp seed, resembles the protein found in human blood, making it easier to digest than soy protein.
In addition to providing useful fibers, hemp seed also has high nutritional value and the plant is also used to make biodegradable plastics, some fuels, and a variety of other things.
Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds
Treating Heart Diseases
The worldwide major cause of death is heart disease, consumption of hemp seeds lowers the occurrence of heart diseases. Consuming hemp seeds lowers the risk of heart disease. The seed contains high amounts of amino acid arginine, which produces nitric oxide in our body. Nitric oxide is a gas molecule that makes our blood vessels dilate and relax, leading to lowered blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart diseases.
Hemp seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid which has anti-inflammatory properties and may decrease the risk of diseases like heart diseases.
Skin Disorders
Hemp seeds and oil may benefit from skin disorders. Fatty acids may affect immune responses in our body. Balance of both omega fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-3) maintains our immune system stable. Hence, seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated and essential fatty acids. They have an absolutely 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered in the optimal range. Improved blood vessels containing essential fatty acids in eczema people are observed by consumption of hem seed oil. The oil may also relieve dry skin, improve itchiness and reduce the need for medication.
Protein Source
Approximately 25% of calories are derived from protein and are remarkably high. 11 gm of protein is obtained from 30gm of hemp seeds or 2-3 tablespoons. As they supply all the essential amino acids, they are said to be a total protein source. Our body cannot produce essential amino acids and must obtain them from the diet.
As most plants lack the amino acid lysine, it’s rare to find a complete protein source in the plant kingdom. The other example of a plant-based protein source is quinoa.
Digestion
Fiber is an essential component of our diet and that helps in better digestive health. Hemp seeds contain 20% of soluble fiber and 80% of insoluble fiber. A gel-like substance is formed in the gut by soluble fiber. It’s a valuable source of nutrients for beneficial digestive bacteria and also reduces spikes in blood sugar and regulates cholesterol levels. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stools and may help food and waste pass through the gut. It has also been liked to reduce the risk of diabetes.
Treats PMS and Menopause Symptoms
Up to 80% of women of reproductive age suffer from physical or emotional symptoms caused by premenstrual syndrome. These symptoms are probably caused by reactivity or susceptibility of hormone prolactin Gamma-linolenic acid, found in hemp seeds, produce prostaglandins E1, which reduce the effects of prolactin.
Brain Function
Hemp seeds are considered to be extremely beneficial for brain function. These seeds can improve mood, energy levels, and memory. It also serves as an anti-depressant and decreases anxiety levels. The magnesium and amino acids in hemp seed can stabilize the mind and keep focused. Furthermore, omega-3 and omega-6 acids in hemp can prevent brain weakening as we grow old.
Anti-inflammatory
Hemp seed products can be used as a powerful anti-inflammatory. Some ingredients in the hemp plant are gamma-linolenic acids which are famous for their anti-inflammatory properties. Hemp seed can ease arthritis, scoliosis, and other inflammatory disorders.
Pain relief
Hemp seeds are used as a natural pain reliever. When consumed or applied, it can slow down the pain receptors and alleviate chronic pain such as arthritis, joint inflammation, osteoarthritis, and other health problems.
Help pregnancy
Hemp seed can be used as a supplement during pregnancy. Nourishing our body with foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as those in hemp seeds is an essential part of any pregnancy. The omega-3 fatty acids can protect and aid the development of the brain and retina of the baby. The anti-depressive effects of hemp seed can also prevent the depression that many new mothers have after giving birth. As we all know, pregnancies can be extremely stressful. Thus, hemp seeds can also serve as a natural anxiety reliever.
Alleviate liver diseases
The effects of hemp seed on fatty liver disease, it was proven that using hemp seed can alleviate the conditions. Fatty liver disease is caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and lifestyle factors. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of hemp can ease irregular lipid metabolism and improve the process of breaking down fats.
