Hemp
Hemp (from Old English hænep) is a commonly used term for high growing varieties of the Cannabis plant and its products, which include fiber, oil, and seed. Hemp is refined into products such as hemp seed foods, hemp oil, wax, resin, rope, cloth, pulp, paper, and fuel. Other variants of the herb Cannabis Sativa are widely used as a drug, commonly known in the United States as marijuana. These variants are typically low growing and have higher content of THC.
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Special Precautions of Hemp
- Interactions with Other Compounds : The University of Michigan Health System warns that the use of hemp products can inhibit platelet formation. This effect is due to its high omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acid content. Therefore, individuals taking anticoagulants are warned that increased bleeding could occur. Scott Goodnight, M.D., reports in the November issue of “Blood” that consuming omega-3 fatty acids can alter platelet function and increase bleeding time.
- Gastrointestinal Distress : *One of the side effects of consuming hemp protein is gastrointestinal distress. For example, a person may experience a loosening of stools, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and bloating. These symptoms are generally mild in nature and lessen over time with continued use. However, individuals with intestinal disorders should be wary as hemp protein consumption may exacerbate already present symptoms. They should consult their health care provider before eating hemp protein.
- THC Metabolites in Urine : Although low in concentration, hemp contains the psychoactive chemical, THC. This has raised concerns as to whether daily dietary consumption of hemp could contribute to testing positive on drug tests. Studies have confirmed the presence of THC metabolites in urine after consuming hemp products. A study published in the November-December 2001 issue of the “Journal of Analytical Toxicology” mimicked daily consumption rates of hemp and investigated THC metabolite levels. They established that THC metabolites in urine remained low, even after extended use. Therefore, consuming the average daily amount of hemp should not pose a risk to testing positive on drug tests.
- THC Sensitivity : Although rare, individuals that are highly sensitive to THC may experience its effects, such as hallucinations or feelings of well-being, especially when consuming hemp protein in the greater than normal daily amounts. Never take more than the recommended amount, and again, always consult your doctor before adding this to your diet.
The benefits of Hemp are
Seeds of the plant Cannabis Sativa, hemp seed, contain all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids necessary to maintain healthy human life. No other single plant source has the essential amino acids in such an easily digestible form, nor has the essential fatty acids in as perfect a ratio to meet human nutritional needs. Hemp protein, on the other hand, contains the highest amount of edestin, a plant protein that is constructed entirely of amino acids and can be used by the body to build important antibodies, enzymes, hormones, hemoglobin cells and blood-clotting agents.
- Lower blood LDL cholesterol levels
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve cardiovascular circulation & function
- Improve organ function
- Improve immunity levels
- Increased energy levels & metabolic rate
- Reduce symptoms of PMS & menstrual cramps
- Reduce inflammation and the symptoms of arthritis
- Improve recovery of muscles after exercise
- Reduce & treat dry skin and hair conditions
- Reduction of many degenerative diseases through preventative measures
- DNA damage : two primary proteins found in hemp seeds -- Edestin and Albumin -- can assist the body in repairing damaged DNA that it is otherwise incapable of fixing on its own.
