Hemp: what it is, the effect and consequences of use

Hemp is one of the oldest plants on the planet. The cultivation of this crop began approximately ten thousand years ago in the territory of modern Taiwan. Even ancient farmers noticed that this grass significantly improves the quality of the soil on which it grows, and its stems have been serving as raw material for durable natural fibers for centuries. Archaeologists have found artifacts confirming the use of hemp cord 8 thousand years ago. At one time, the Chinese grew this grass not only for its fiber, but also as a source of protein, vitamins, essential fatty acids and amino acids. Hemp oil and balms were made from pressed stems and seeds. Many centuries ago, people realized that hemp oil has healing properties. What is known about this product today?

What it is

Hemp oil is a product obtained from hemp. And right away it’s worth saying that theoretically it can be made from all plants of the Cannabis genus, but, as a rule, only industrial plant varieties are used for these purposes. We are talking about varieties of cannabis that do not contain psychoactive substances that affect the nervous system and brain function. Also, do not confuse edible hemp oil with those made from other types of hemp that have narcotic properties. In the second case, they obtain hashish or narcotic cannabis oil, which are dangerous to humans. The raw materials for hemp oil are the seeds of certain types of hemp, with a negligible content or complete absence of psychotropic components.

Content:

• What it is
• Nutritional characteristics
• Benefits for the human body
• Role in the body
• Consumption of hemp product
• Application of hemp fats
• How to choose and store correctly
• Traditional medicine recipes
• Cosmetic recipes

Depending on production and processing methods, different types of hemp oil may differ slightly in appearance and taste. By cold pressing the seeds, a product is obtained that, in its unrefined form, has a green color, herbal taste and a nutty aftertaste. After processing (refined), the oil becomes almost colorless, but retains its characteristic aroma quite well. It is believed that it is more useful to choose unrefined varieties as a food product, and refined ones are better suited for external use and massage.

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In some countries they are completely legalized, while in others the storage and use of only small doses is allowed. But in most states, cannabis is prohibited for sale because it causes addiction and is considered a direct path to switching to heavier psychoactive substances.

Nutritional characteristics

The oil contained in hemp seeds consists of 75-80% of the so-called good fats (polyunsaturated fatty acids), and only 9-11% of the composition is saturated fatty acids, which are less desirable in the human diet. It is believed that hemp product is the most unsaturated among other vegetable oils.

Essential fatty acids included in the product are one of the most important components for humans. They are important because at the cellular level they participate in the production of vital energy. By the way, many of us feel deficient in these fatty acids and, on the contrary, receive excessive amounts of animal fats.

In nutrition, hemp oil is known as the most balanced in nature. And all because it contains Omega-6 and Omega-3 substances in proportions useful for humans - 3:1. In addition, the product contains three more important PUFAs: gamma-linolenic, oleic and stearic acids. And I must say, this combination is unique among all edible oilseeds.

Thanks to Omega-3, hemp product is able to prevent inflammation, cognitive decline, it is beneficial for the heart and a healthy metabolism. Omega-6 protects the body from allergies, improves energy production and heart function, and helps the body quickly recuperate.

In addition to Omega substances and other fatty acids, hemp seed oil provides a person with a sufficient amount of antioxidants, including in the form of vitamins A and. In addition to them, the product contains reserves of B vitamins, phospholipids, phytosterols, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, chromium, as well as a small amount of iron and zinc. Additionally, unrefined hemp oil is a good source of chlorophyll.

Research has shown that many common human diseases are caused by a lack or imbalance of fatty acid intake. On the contrary, people whose diet contains fatty acids in the right quantities have strong immunity and healthy skin.

What are the benefits of hemp oil?

The oil began to be actively used in Russia and the entire post-Soviet space back in the 14th century. It has found its application in several areas of human life:

• in everyday life as a dressing for various dishes;
• for medical purposes for the treatment of diseases of internal organs and systems, including taken for colds, to strengthen the immune system and heal wounds, normalize digestion, and the product allows you to quickly restore the body after courses of treatment, surgical interventions, the use of antibiotics, injuries;
• for cosmetic purposes to improve the health and appearance of hair, skin, nails;
• in industry and in everyday life, for example, oil and extract from hemp seeds were actively used for the manufacture of threads, ropes, gear for navigation, in the production of paper, clothing, and shoes.

Thanks to the complex of vitamins and minerals, metabolic processes are normalized and the functioning of all organs and systems is improved. Cannabidiol and trace elements make bones stronger and skin more elastic.

When used externally, wrinkles are smoothed out, pigment spots and other minor defects of the epidermis become less noticeable. Regeneration processes are launched and age-related changes in tissues are stopped.

There is only one type of hemp product - cold pressed. Due to the lack of heat treatment, it retains the maximum amount of beneficial nutrients and there are almost no substances hazardous to health.

Benefits for the human body

Hemp oil offers a number of health benefits. And not least thanks to the rich presence of essential amino acids. If the body lacks these substances, mutations at the cellular level and the development of cancer are possible. However, scientists are still arguing about the anti-cancer properties of hemp oil.

In addition, hemp oil is known for other properties. For example:

• antibacterial;
• antiviral;
• antifungal;
• antioxidant;
• anti-inflammatory;
• regenerative;
• cardioprotective.

This product is useful to use:

• for the treatment of anemia, asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, skin diseases;
• to improve the functioning of the cardiac and immune systems;
• to improve lactation;
• for gastric ulcers, enteritis, colitis, cholecystitis, hemorrhoids, cholelithiasis;
• for the treatment of inflammation in the genitourinary system;
• for hypertension;
• to improve arthritis or osteoporosis;
• for tuberculosis;
• for the treatment of renal failure.

How to take hemp oil correctly

The use of hemp oil for medicinal purposes promotes the overall health of the body and solves a lot of problems. The beneficial properties of hemp products have been confirmed by numerous clinical studies by scientists from different countries.

Traditional healers recommend taking this remedy orally in the following cases:

• for respiratory diseases;
• for sexual disorders in men and women;
• for disorders of digestion, hormonal and immune systems;
• during pregnancy and adolescence;
• for disorders of blood circulation, blood composition and blood clotting;
• with insufficient breast milk (with great caution due to the risk of an allergic reaction in the child);
• for various skin diseases;
• for disorders caused in the body by stress and overwork;
• for diseases of the heart, blood vessels and nerves.

But to obtain the desired therapeutic effect, it is necessary to take this remedy correctly. It is best to use it for dressing salads, sauces, and adding it to vegetable dishes and porridges instead of simple vegetable.

The fatty acids included will help those who have given up meat products to replenish the deficiency of nutrients.

Here are a few rules for those who wish to use the oil in its pure form:

1. For preventive and therapeutic purposes, an adult should take 1-2 tablespoons of the product orally per day. But this amount is best divided into several doses.
2. It is advisable to drink it 20-25 minutes before the main meal or consume it together with other foods.
3. It is permissible to increase the dosage to 3 tablespoons per day. But before using this product, be sure to consult your doctor.

The product also helps with hemorrhoids and constipation. To get rid of these problems, traditional healers recommend introducing a little of the product heated in a water bath (40-100 ml) into the rectum and leaving it there for several hours or even overnight.

Role in the body

Supports hormonal balance

Hemp is the only edible seed containing gamma-linolenic acid. And when it enters the body, it turns into prostaglandin, which regulates hormonal levels in the body.

Good for people with diabetes

Due to its low carbohydrate and sugar content, hemp oil, rich in valuable substances, is extremely beneficial for people with diabetes. In addition, the nutritional components contained in the product help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Boosts immunity

A product rich in Omega substances strengthens the immune system, including by improving intestinal microflora. Increases the body's resistance against microbes.

Protects nerve cells

The essential fatty acids found in this product are essential for maintaining healthy cell membrane structure. Consuming the oil prevents the destruction of the myelin sheath (the membrane that protects nerve cells).

Prevents varicose veins

Like other Omega-3 rich foods, hemp oil can thin the blood, preventing the formation of clots, and thereby protect against the occurrence of varicose veins.

Skin Benefits

Hemp seed oil contains a number of substances that are beneficial for the skin. In particular, fatty acids nourish and moisturize the skin. For this reason, many face and body creams contain hemp oil as a main ingredient. Massage using it makes the skin healthy, tightened, and fresh in color. This product has anti-aging properties, smooths out wrinkles, and moisturizes very dry skin. In addition, hemp oil is useful for eczema, psoriasis, and acne. But it is worth noting that oil is used not only externally to treat skin. Studies have shown that eating the product also relieves symptoms of eczema and other skin problems.

Benefits for hair

Hair also feels the benefits of hemp oil. Many hair care products contain plant-based ingredients, including hemp. This oil improves blood circulation, thereby accelerating hair growth. Washing your hair with shampoos containing this product improves hair structure, maintains scalp health, and treats dandruff. Vegetable oil-based masks are useful for maintaining healthy hair follicles.

Source of Alpha Linolenic Acid

Hemp oil is an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid. This substance is important for the proper functioning of the body. Interestingly, the structure of this fatty acid is very similar to the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Therefore, hemp product, like fish, is useful for preventing heart disease, arthritis, and depression. It helps reduce the amount of low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) in the body that clogs arteries.

Rich Source of Protein

Hemp oil contains 25% high quality protein. It provides a person with amino acids in almost the same quantities as meat or eggs. Thanks to its special structure, hemp protein is easily digested by the body and quickly absorbed. By the way, this protein is often used to make protein powders for bodybuilders. For this reason, hemp oil is useful to take after training - for faster recovery, accelerated muscle growth and improved tone of the musculoskeletal system. Compared to other oils, hemp oil provides essential proteins and amino acids without adding extra calories.

Improves the functioning of the reproductive system

This product is useful for men and women to improve the functioning of the reproductive system. In particular, the benefits for women include relief from PMS, menopause, and also during pregnancy. For expectant mothers, the oil is useful as a source of vitamins and essential fatty acids, as well as to prevent swelling. For men, the product is important for the prevention of prostate adenoma, cancer, and impotence.

Harm and contraindications

Hemp oil has both beneficial properties and contraindications. This product, if taken orally, may be harmful in the following cases:

• individual intolerance;
• digestive problems, gastrointestinal diseases, including pancreatitis, gastritis, ulcers;
• serious cardiovascular pathologies;
• excess weight;
• diseases of the circulatory system;
• combined use with blood thinners.

When used externally there are also a number of restrictions. It should not be used in the presence of open wound surfaces, hypersensitivity, rashes and inflammation.

When used in large quantities, the product causes severe diarrhea, digestive disorders, nausea, vomiting, exacerbation of some chronic diseases and other negative reactions.

Important! You can't fry food with hemp oil! If a product is subjected to heat treatment, substances harmful to health are formed in it.

Consumption of hemp product

Many people, when they hear the name “hemp,” immediately think of drug addiction. In fact, industrial varieties of this plant do not contain psychotropic substances that could harm the body. And I must say, every year more and more people realize this and introduce hemp porridge and oil into their diet, which were held in high esteem in Rus'.

Hemp fats are used in cooking and pharmacology in many countries. This product is considered one of the healthiest for humans. However, it is also important to realize that overusing it can cause side effects.

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It is important to know that hemp oil is not suitable for frying. It can only be used in dishes that are not heated above 50 degrees Celsius. At higher temperatures, polyunsaturated fats are broken down into harmful substances. Thus, this product is good to use in salads, to give dishes a special aroma, but not for frying.

Excessive consumption of hemp products can also affect the functioning of the digestive system. For example, there is reason to believe that it causes diarrhea. Although for people with intestinal motility disorders and chronic constipation, this oil can be very useful. In addition, too large portions of fat from hemp seeds can cause abdominal cramps, nausea, and exacerbation of certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This product should not be used before surgery as it contains substances that impair blood clotting.

By the way, the recommended daily intake of hemp oil is from 14 to 28 ml, which corresponds to 1-2 tablespoons of the product.

Signs of cannabis use

Regular use of cannabis affects not only a person’s health, but also their appearance. Signs of cannabis use include:

• Dilated pupils;
• Red eyes;
• Herbal odor from hands, hair and clothes;
• Sudden mood swings - from psychomotor agitation to lethargy and complete indifference;
• Difficulties with orientation in time and space;
• Inadequate reaction to what is happening, hallucinations, delusional states;
• Problems with coordination;
• Excessive appetite, sweet tooth.

Application of hemp fats

One of the classic uses of hemp oil is in the production of cosmetics. This product is often an ingredient in soaps, shower gels, and skin care products. Hemp oil is often combined with other oily bases to create skin care products for dry skin. This hemp product improves blood circulation and nourishes the skin with beneficial substances, so it is often used as a massage product. In industry, this product is used to make paints, and also as biofuel - an environmentally friendly alternative to oil.

Beneficial features

Due to the abundance of beneficial properties, the product is allowed to be used by children. Many will find it an effective addition to the treatment of certain diseases or solve skin and hair problems.

The use of hemp oil will have the following benefits on the body:

• soothes pain, therefore it is effective for recovery after operations, for disorders of the joints and muscles, for women it will be useful as a pain reliever during menstruation;
• normalizes metabolism, therefore recommended for use during weight loss;
• strengthens the cardiovascular system, makes blood vessels strong and flexible, prevents the accumulation of “bad” cholesterol, due to the high iron content it is useful for anemia;
• eliminates disorders of the gastrointestinal tract - bloating and constipation;
• for men, the product serves as a means of preventing prostate adenoma, increases potency and has a positive effect on the level of male hormones;
• the abundance of antioxidants determines the substance’s ability to help fight cancer;
• has a positive effect on the state of the nervous system;
• helps with diseases of the respiratory system;
• protects against the negative effects of sunlight;
• eliminates peeling and irritation on the skin, heals small wounds and scratches;
• slows down the aging process, eliminates sagging, and has a lifting effect.

The drug can be included in the treatment of the following diseases:

• myocardial infarction, stroke;
• anemia;
• neuroses of various natures, early stages of childhood autism;
• damage to the kidneys and bladder (inflammation);
• slow metabolism (for example, due to illness, injury or surgery);
• hormonal disorders (both men and women);
• haemorrhoids;
• damage to bones, joints, muscles.

But it is worth remembering that the positive effect is noticeable only from the use of high-quality raw materials.

Traditional medicine recipes

And if today most of us know very little about the beneficial properties of hemp oil, then our great-grandmothers actively used it for treatment.

To strengthen the body's protective abilities, herbalists advised drinking a tablespoon of oil on an empty stomach. It was used to prevent spring vitamin deficiency. To do this, traditional healers advised drinking a teaspoon of oil three times a day.

A mixture of hemp oil and egg whites, taken in equal proportions, can heal burns. This natural medicine has an analgesic effect and reduces inflammation. And seed oil and starch mixed in equal parts are useful to apply to the sites of abscesses.

Consumer Reviews

• “It does not contain narcotic components, which means you don’t have to worry about your clarity of consciousness. The oil has a suspiciously green color, but it turns out that this is its natural shade. True, it smears clothes and beds if you spread it on the skin at night. The taste is quite disgusting and there is no desire to use it in salads. But for cosmetic and medicinal purposes, very much so. I drink it like a tasteless medicine, and immediately eat something. Ugh! But the effect is worth it! My allergic rashes on my skin completely disappeared, it became smooth and pleasant. It’s a pity that it doesn’t have a cumulative effect; as soon as I stop drinking the oil, everything immediately returns to normal. By the way, scars and scars also become softer. But my weight is at the same level, but I don’t follow any diet and I don’t play sports either.”
• “I bought the oil specifically to compensate for the lack of Omega-3 in the body. The color is poisonous and unattractive, but the taste is completely fine. I also add fresh vegetable salad to porridge. Literally a teaspoon a day, and I forgot about my rapid heartbeat. I hope that the level of bad cholesterol has also decreased, as promised in the instructions. Wait and see".
• “Drink hemp oil and you will be kind and cheerful! Just don’t think anything like that about drugs, they aren’t there. But it has a lot of useful properties. I have a problem child who has suffered from seizures since infancy. I started adding oil to my porridge and to my salad. As a result, the seizures disappeared, my immunity increased, all tests were normal, and I feel great, because healthy children mean healthy mothers.”
• “I use it exclusively for cosmetic purposes. I have always suffered from dry skin, but after three massages with hemp oil, it was saturated with moisture and became silky and smooth. I am delighted! I will continue to use it, although it is not cheap. The only negative is the permanent staining of clothes if you accidentally drip.”
• “I’ve been drinking oil for a month now. Digestion was normalized, otherwise there were constant fluctuations - either disorders or constipation. Yes, and the pain was excruciating. Now everything is normal. But the oil is not cheap, and the bottle is small – 100 g.”

Cosmetic recipes

Facial mask

Take hemp oil, sour cream, and oatmeal in equal proportions. If the mask is intended for dry or normal skin, add egg yolk to the mixture, if for oily skin, add egg white. Mix thoroughly, bring to body temperature and apply to facial skin for 15-20 minutes. If you use the mask at least once a week, you can get rid of dryness and flaking, refresh your face and even out its tone.

Hair Mask

Mix a tablespoon of carrot juice and honey, 2 tablespoons of hemp oil and 2-3 drops of lavender oil. Apply the resulting mixture to your hair, wrap it with cling film and insulate it with a terry towel. After 2 hours, your hair can be washed. This product is useful for damaged hair, dandruff, and for activating hair follicles.

Mask against baldness

The basis of this product is hemp oil, which you will need about 5 tablespoons (the amount depends on the length of the hair). Add 2-3 drops of essential oils of rosewood, chamomile and coriander to the base. Massage the oil mixture into the scalp. Insulate with a towel and rinse after 2 hours.

Hemp was outlawed in all republics of the USSR in 1961. And all its varieties. And only recently, researchers recalled that not all types of plants from the cannabis genus are undesirable. So it turns out that many of us have to get acquainted with hemp oil again - a product that in Rus' was considered one of the most useful.

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How to select and store?

When choosing hemp oil, you should pay attention to the following points:

• high-quality hemp oil has a light green color (if it is refined oil) or dark green (if it is unrefined oil);
• good quality hemp oil has a bitter taste and a nutty-herbaceous aroma;
• the right oil should only be sold in dark glass bottles;
• It is best to purchase cold-pressed oil, as it is considered more beneficial;
• oil should be bought in a small container - no more than 200 ml;
• You should carefully check the expiration date and date of manufacture;
• The shelf life of hemp oil is 12 months.

Hemp oil can be stored at temperatures from +5°C to +15°C in a dark place (preferably in the refrigerator). If the bottle is opened, the oil is stored in the refrigerator for no more than 6 months from the date of opening, and the bottle must have a well-screwed cap.