The Benefits of Hemp Oil
What is Hemp Oil?
Originating from Central Asia, hemp (Cannabis sativa) belongs to the Cannabaceae family. For centuries, this plant has been used in a variety of ways: textile manufacturing, paper or biodegradable plastic, biofuels…
After flowering, hemp produces seeds called hempseeds. These are harvested and then pressed to extract oil.
This oil has a lovely yellow-green color and a characteristic, fresh, and herbal scent.
Multi-purpose, it is used in cooking for seasoning, and in cosmetics for skin and hair care. Hemp oil is also available as a dietary supplement in capsule form.
The Qualities of Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are exceptionally nutritious. They contain plant-based proteins (about 26 g per 100 g), fibers, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Very nutritious, they are ideal for a flexitarian, vegetarian, or vegan diet to prevent deficiencies.
Hempseeds are also distinguished by their high content of essential fatty acids (omega-3-6-9): about 15 g per 100 g. These contribute to cardiovascular health, regulate blood pressure, and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Along with flax and camelina oil, hemp oil is one of the richest oils in omega-3 (linolenic acid).
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Finally, this oil presents benefits for the skin. As shown in this study, it can relieve numerous skin problems (dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne…). An action owed to its richness in essential fatty acids, vitamins (pro-vitamin A, C, E), and zinc.
How to Choose Your Hemp Oil?
Hemp Oil and CBD Oil: What’s the Difference?
Caution, do not confuse hemp oil with cannabidiol oil (or CBD oil). Be sure to check the product label before making your choice.
The former is extracted solely from the seeds. It is completely free of psychoactive substances (CBD and THC) and is used as a dietary or cosmetic oil.
The latter, however, is produced from the seeds as well as from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It contains cannabinoid compounds and has recently been authorized in France. Moreover, its composition and properties are not the same as hemp oil. It is mainly used for its calming and pain-relieving virtues.
Quality Criteria
As with any vegetable oil, always opt for oil extracted in first cold press. This process preserves active ingredients, nutritional quality, and all the benefits of the seeds.
Also choose virgin hemp oil, 100% pure and natural. Finally, organic certification guarantees optimal cultivation conditions and an oil free of pesticide residues.
How to Use Hemp Oil?
In Cooking
In cooking, hemp oil is appreciated for its light hazelnut and almond taste. It’s an excellent seasoning oil that can be added to many dishes: salads, pasta, rice, meats, vegetables, desserts…
However, hemp oil is not suitable for cooking or frying. Its fatty acids are delicate and would quickly be destroyed by heat.
Once opened, store your bottle of oil in the refrigerator and away from light. Consume it within 2 months to avoid oxidation risks.
As a Dietary Supplement
Certain brands offer capsules containing hemp oil. In this case, it is consumed as a dietary supplement during a course of treatment. This form is interesting to make the full of essential fatty acids. It also allows you to enjoy all its benefits without tasting it (which is not necessarily to everyone’s liking).
For Skin Care
Hemp seed oil is ideal for treating mature, tired, dry, and dehydrated skin. It has anti-aging properties that fight free radicals and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It also prevents dryness, providing elasticity, firmness, and suppleness to the skin. Lastly, its soothing action calms redness, irritations, and skin problems.
It has a fairly dry touch that penetrates quickly into the skin, without leaving a greasy film. It can be applied alone, in combination with other vegetable oils (rosehip, apricot kernels, black seed…) and/or with essential oils (rose geranium, neroli, tea-tree…). It is also an excellent massage oil for the body.
For hair care
Thanks to its richness in fatty substances, hemp oil nourishes deeply. It also provides elasticity, volume, and shine to the hair. If you have dry, brittle, and dull hair, go for it! Finally, it smooths the hair fiber to ease styling for curly and tangled hair.
You can apply it as an oil bath, either alone or combined with other vegetable oils (castor, jojoba, argan…). Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner or use it to create homemade detangling balms, masks, and hair serums.
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