Health Benefits of Hemp Seed, Uses And Its Side Effects
Last Updated: Sep 02, 2020
Hemp seeds are picking up popularity as one of the healthiest foods known to man. The most remarkable characteristic of hemp seeds is that they contain nine essential amino acids (EAAs) which are not naturally produced within the body.
In addition, hemp seed are also a rich source of protein and have a natural balance between omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids, which makes it a versatile, and highly nutritional supplement to a regular, balanced diet. It has many health benefits including preventing fatal diseases such as cancer, and minimizing the risk of developing incapacitating conditions such as osteoporosis.
Hemp Seeda has an overall positive effect on gastrointestinal health, in that it can also cure constipation as well as diarrhea, owing to its high fiber content. It enables the body in producing healthy epidermal and dermal tissues, and balances hormones.
Hemp Seed
Hemp is the layman term for a number of plants that fall in the Cannabis category. Since it is so versatile, it can be turned into wax, resin, fiber, cloth, and fuel, among other products. However, it is also extremely beneficial as a food source, along with being completely safe.
Hemp seeds can be used in their natural form and they can also be converted into oil. Because the cannabis plant contains a psychotropic chemical named THC, many countries have begun cultivating a different variety of hemp that does not contain this chemical and can be harvested and sold safely. It’s a highly resilient plant that can be cultivated in a variety of climatic conditions.
Nutritional Value of Hemp Seed
The hemp seed is rich in a number of nutrients, which makes it invaluable in treating many conditions. Merely 100 gms of hemp seeds contain 586 kcal of energy and 31.56 g of protein. In addition, hemp seed comprises of 21 amino acids, of which 9 are essential to the human body.
Hemp seeds are high on fiber, like most seeds, and also contains high levels of phosphorous, potassium, and magnesium at 1650 mg, 1200 mg, and 700 mg, respectively. It is also a good source of essential fats and a relatively rare type of omega-6 fatty acid called gamma linolenic acid or GLA.
Nutritional facts Per 100 Grams
Vitamins and Minerals
Health Benefits of Hemp Seed
Hemp Seed Improves Cardiovascular Well-Being
The omega-6 fatty acid content of the hemp seed is extremely beneficial to cardiovascular health. Experts recommend a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1 of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp seed is the only plant based food product where this ratio occurs naturally. This balance is essential for the human body to function as normally as possible.
Consumption of hemp seeds prevents heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis.
A healthy heart requires high fiber content in the diet.
Many dieticians recommend adding 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds to the diet, say in a morning smoothie, to organically reduce LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. It also improves HDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides.
Hemp seed oil for insomnia issue
The hemp seed’s high mineral content is one of its most important benefits. As it contains high amounts of magnesium, it is able to effectively treat insomnia by soothing and relaxing the body. The action of magnesium on enzymes and hormones induces sleep.
For instance, serotonin, is released when the magnesium content of the hemp seed is utilized. Serotonin travels to the brain, where it becomes melatonin. The latter is a powerful aid for sleep and relaxation. Experts believe that a single serving of hemp seeds contains 50% of the daily requirement of magnesium.
Hemp Seeds Improves Digestive Health
Hemp seeds contain a healthy mix of soluble and insoluble fibers, making it the ideal dietary supplement. It is a well-known fact that fiber is essential for gastrointestinal health. The fiber in hemp seeds feeds the probiotics in the stomach and keeps it healthy.
Additionally, hemp seeds provides relief from constipation. As little as 7.5 grams of hemp seeds a day can aid those suffering from constipation.
Insoluble fibers in the hemp seed can also provide relief from diarrhea. Soluble fibers, on the other hand, stimulate the production of bile juice, which reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol.
Hemp Seeds Prevents Colorectal Cancer
Along with improving digestive health, the consumption of hemp seeds also prevents colorectal cancer. Hemp seeds are one of the best cancer-fighting foods available naturally. The fiber content minimizes the risk of carcinogenic cell generation.
Research has uncovered evidence that cannabinoids extracted from hemp seed can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, specifically in lung cancer. Additionally, the balance of omega-3 and oemega-6 fatty acids boosts the immune system and organically balances the level of inflammation in the body.
Studies have reported that the THC content of hemp seeds can stop the growth of glioblastoma multiforme, which is a fatal form of brain cancer. Some studies suggest that hemp seeds can reverse this cancer’s effects as well.
Hemp Seed Improves Skin Health
Instead of using high-end chemicals to repair damage toskin, one can use hemp seeds. It goes a long way in healing red, flaky skin. It is used extensively in curing atopic dermatitis and eczema, because it penetrates deep tissue and heals from within.
Although, hemp seeds are already used in medicines that are used to treat skin ailments, it is a good idea to supplement this with two tablespoons of hemp seeds a day.
Hemp seeds can ground and incorporated into your daily skin care regimen to get healthier skin, even if you aren’t afflicted by a skin condition, as it has extensive restorative properties.
Hemp Seeds Assists in Weight Loss
Hemp seeds are high on protein and low on calories and sodium, which makes it a great supplement in a weight loss regimen.
By cosuming hemp seeds, makes the body feel full for a longer period of time by inhibiting the release of ghrelin and curbing hunger pangs. The fiber content in the seeds also have a similar effect on the body along with assisting in good digestion and bowel movement, which in turn increases the absorption of essential nutrients and reduces weight.
Some experts suggest adding up to four tablespoons of hemp seeds to breakfast every day. Since it contains appetite suppressants, you are likely to consume fewer calories during the day.
Hemp Seeds Improve Muscle Mass
On the other end of the spectrum, hemp seeds can also help in gaining muscle mass. It has nine essential amino acids that are not naturally produced within the human body.
Combined with the fact that it is a complete protein, it enables the creation of new tissues along with strengthening muscle mass and density. Hemp seeds also complements a gaining workout routine and helps tone muscle.
Hemp Seeds Regulates and Balances Hormones
Consuming hemp seeds can help regulate the hormones secreted by the thyroid gland and pancreas as it contains gamma linolenic acid. In addition it can also treat the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, which include but are not limited to mood swings, anxiety, depression, and menopausal symptoms. It also regulates the hormones that impact hunger, and consequently weight gain.
Hemp Seeds Prevents Osteoporosis
100 gms of hemp seeds contain about 70 mg of calcium, which is a fair amount. Moderate consumption of hemp seeds can supplement a regular balanced diet, which includes calcium rich foods such as milk, and consequently improve bone strength.
Hemp sees also help in repairing damage to the bones. A higher production of calcium in the body can minimize the chances of developing debilitating conditions like osteoporosis.
Uses of Hemp Seed
Hemp seeds are also known as hemp hearts, and that is the part that is fit for oral consumption. They have a mild, nutty flavor that can enhance the flavor profile of a variety of dishes. They can be ground and added as garnishing, or they can be soaked overnight and the sprouted seeds can become the crunchy element in a salad.
Hemp seeds are one of the main components in granola bars. They can also be eaten raw, although it is advisable to consume once soaked to extract maximum nutrition and taste. Hemp seeds are also used to make hempseed oil which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids.
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Side-Effects & Allergies of Hemp Seed
Although the hemp seeds that are cultivated specifically for oral consumption are devoid of THC, which is a psychotropic chemical found naturally in some varieties of hemp, they could have come in contact with THC-covered plants and the residue can induce a feeling of being “high”. While this effect can be uncomfortable if unanticipated, it is quite rare, non-threatening, and does not last long.
Doctors and nutritionists also caution people who are sensitive to dietary changes against consuming hemp seeds in large quantities, as they can cause mild diarrhea.
Additionally, those who are on anticoagulant drugs need to be especially cautious when consuming hemp seeds as they inhibit platelets and may pose a risk of bleeding.
Cultivation of Hemp Seed
The earliest cultivation of hemp can be traced to Japan where it was used as a fiber crop and to produce paper. However, many archaeologists have suggested that the Japanese also consumed hemp seeds. However, commercial cultivation of hemp, with its seeds as the main commercial component, can be traced to fourteenth century Portugal.
The global hemp seeds production saw a decline in the 1970s because of European Union regulations, although it has been on the rise in the last decade.
References
- Ashton CH. Pharmacology and effects of cannabis: a brief review. The British Journal of Psychiatry. 2001 Feb;178(2):101-6. [Cited 24 June 2019]. Available from:
- Bonini SA, Premoli M, Tambaro S, Kumar A, Maccarinelli G, Memo M, Mastinu A. Cannabis sativa: A comprehensive ethnopharmacological review of a medicinal plant with a long history. Journal of ethnopharmacology. 2018 Sep 8. [Cited 24 June 2019]. Available from:
- Conrad C. Hemp for health: The medicinal and nutritional uses of Cannabis sativa. Inner Traditions/Bear & Co; 1997. [Cited 24 June 2019]. Available from:
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