Hemp oil is on the rise. Forgotten for decades, because associated with the sulfurous image of hemp, it comes back in force in our kitchens… and our bathrooms! Zoom on this pretty green oil, full of benefits, and good for everything, or almost!
What is hemp oil?
Hemp is a subspecies of the Hemp Sativa plant. It is cultivated for industrial, textile, or agricultural use. In general, it is selected for the size of its stalk (textile) and its low THC content (the “strong” psychotropic substance of hemp, consumed for recreational purposes). It should be noted that hemp also contains very little CBD – around 3 to 4%. Thus, cannabidiol extracts currently marketed (for analgesic or sedative purposes) are generally derived from hemp plants grown for medicinal purposes.
Hemp oil is extracted from hemp seeds. It is used in human food and cosmetics, among other things, because it has many properties for the body and the skin. Very popular until the 19th century, it gradually fell into oblivion, until it regained popularity in recent years.
The unique composition of hemp oil
Hemp seeds are nutritionally rich. Thus the shelled seed contains :
- 9% carbohydrates
- 49% lipids, well balanced between saturated and mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids
- 31% protein, source of 8 essential amino acids
- Vitamins – group B, A, C, E
- Many minerals
Hemp oil, therefore, has dietary qualities, since it is a reliable and well-balanced source of omega-3, -6, and -9. Thus, it contains about :
- 8% saturated fats, including stearic acid and palmitic acid
- 55% linoleic acid (omega-6)
- 15% alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3)
- 12% oleic acid (omega-9)
What are the benefits of hemp oil?
Health benefits
Cholesterol-lowering properties of hemp oil
The main health benefit of hemp vegetable oil is undoubtedly its unique nutritional composition. A combination of several essential fatty acids, it has a positive effect on cholesterol levels – when consumed regularly, it lowers “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in favor of good cholesterol (HDL). On the condition that it is eaten raw, as a seasoning, because it does not tolerate heat very well. Its subtle hazelnut flavor makes it the partner of choice for salads, tabbouleh, vegetables, and carpaccios.
Hemp oil against cardiovascular diseases
A second property that echoes the first: regular consumption of hemp oil can protect against cardiovascular risks, such as atherosclerosis (cholesterol deposits on the parietal walls), myocardial infarction, or stroke. The vitamin B3 (or niacinamide) it contains not only has a positive effect on blood circulation, but also on blood cholesterol, which it lowers. Thus it protects arterial health and reduces cardiovascular risk. This action is also reinforced by the high potassium content of hemp oil. A vital trace element, it contributes to the proper functioning of the heart (kalemia being directly involved in cellular hyperexcitability, particularly in the heart) and tends to lower blood pressure. Hemp oil is therefore a friend of our hearts!
Hemp oil to boost immunity
Another property of hemp oil is its high vitamin C content. Ascorbic acid is necessary for the proper functioning of the human metabolism – its deficiency causes, among other things, scurvy, a disease that was widespread until the beginning of the 20th century, especially among sailors, who did not have access to food sources of vitamin C (classically, fruits and vegetables). It allows to reinforce the immune system, a guarantee of protection against infections, viruses, and bacteria. Thus, the regular consumption of hemp vegetable oil, especially in autumn and winter, protects against the little words not funny – cold, flu, gastroenteritis … In addition, hemp oil helps the body to fight against oxidative stress, that is to say, the accumulation of free radicals (sun, pollution, external aggressions) in the body according to The Mode Mag.