The benefits of hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil, what is it ?
Native to Central Asia, the hemp (Cannabis sativa) belongs to the Cannabaceae family. For centuries, this plant has been used for many purposes : the manufacture of textiles, paper or biodegradable plastic, biofuels…
After flowering, hemp produces seeds called chènevis. These are harvested and then pressed to extract an oil.
This oil has a beautiful yellow-green color and a characteristic, fresh, herbal scent.
Multipurpose, it is used both 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 benefits of hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are exceptionally nutrient-rich. They contain plant proteins (about 26 g per 100 g), fiber, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Very nutritious, they are ideal as part of a flexitarian, vegetarian, or vegan diet to help prevent deficiencies.
Hemp seeds are also notable for their high content of essential fatty acids (omega-3-6-9): about 15 g per 100 g. These help support cardiovascular health, regulate blood pressure, and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Along with flaxseed oil and camelina oil, hemp oil is one of the oils highest in omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid).
Also read the 16 foods and dietary supplements that are good for the skin
Finally, this oil offers benefits for the skin. As shown by this study, it helps relieve many skin conditions (dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne…). An effect it owes to its richness in essential fatty acids, in vitamins (provitamin A, C, E) and zinc.
How to choose your hemp seed oil ?
Hemp seed oil and CBD oil : what’s the difference ?
Be careful not to confuse hemp oil with cannabidiol oil (or CBD oil). Make sure to check the product name before making your choice.
The first is extracted from the seeds only. It is completely free of psychoactive substances (CBD and THC) and is used as an edible or cosmetic oil.
The second, however, is produced from the seeds but also from the leaves, stems and flowers of the plant. It contains cannabinoid compounds and France has only recently authorized it. Furthermore, its composition and properties are not the same as those of hemp oil. It is primarily used for its soothing and pain-relieving properties.
Quality criteria
As with any vegetable oil, always opt for an oil extracted by first cold pressing. This process helps preserve the active compounds, nutritional qualities and all the virtues of the seeds.
Also choose a virgin hemp oil, 100% pure and natural. Finally, organic certification guarantees optimal growing conditions and an oil free from pesticide residues.
How to use hemp seed oil ?
In cooking
In cooking, hemp oil is appreciated for its light hazelnut and almond flavor. It is 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 fragile 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 any risk of oxidation.
As a dietary supplement
Some brands offer capsules containing hemp oil. In this case, it is taken as a dietary supplement as part of a course. This form is useful for boosting your intake of essential fatty acids. It also allows you to enjoy all its benefits without tasting it (which not everyone necessarily likes).
For skin care
Hemp seed oil is ideal for treating mature, tired, dry, and dehydrated skin. It has an anti-aging action that fights free radicals and reduces wrinkles and fine lines. It also prevents drying, and ensures elasticity, firmness, and suppleness of the skin. Finally, its soothing action calms redness, irritation, and skin issues.
It has a fairly dry feel that is absorbed quickly into the skin, without leaving an oily film. It can be applied alone, in combination with other vegetable oils (rosehip, apricot kernel, black seed…) and/or with essential oils (rose geranium, neroli, tea tree…). It is also an excellent body massage oil.
For hair care
Thanks to its richness in fatty substances, hemp oil deeply nourishes. 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 make styling easier for kinky and tangled hair.
You can apply it as an oil bath, alone or combined with other vegetable oils (castor, jojoba, argan…). Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner or use it to make detangling balms, DIY hair masks, and serums.
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