Hemp Oil

Other Names : Hempseed oil, Hemp Seed oil
Hemp oil is an oil extracted from the hemp plant. All plants in the Cannabis genus can produce the oil, but usually only industrial hemp is used to make hemp oil. Industrial hemp is a hemp varietal which has been cultivated specifically for industrial production, and it has a minimum of the psychoactive substances associated with the genus, most notably THC. Hemp oil is typically almost free of THC, and it has no psychoactive properties.
See also :

• Hemp
• CBD Oil

Special Precautions of Hemp Oil

• 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 Oil are

Hemp seed oil has a reputation as a versatile substance that is beneficial to us due to its Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio and its content of essential fatty acids. Hemp seed oil is 80% essential fatty acid, the highest amount of any other plant. And because hemp seed oil so closely matches our own skin lipids, it is able to penetrate our cells and lubricate the surfaces between them.

• Omega-3 fatty acids : The seed of the hemp plant contains some of the most balanced and richest sources of oils on the planet. The ideal 3:1 ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 is recommended by the World Health Organization for optimal utilization. The essential fatty acids in these oils are fundamental in restoring health and immune function. Hemp seed oil contains 80 percent essential fatty acids, the highest of any plant.
• Essential Fatty Acids : Hemp seed oil's exceptional concentrations of EFAs (essential fatty acids) are what make it so special. In concept, this oil could provide all of our EFA necessities for life. Essential fatty acids are the omega fats that cannot be produced by the body and must be ingested. They are known for their role in preventing heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cancer, arthritis and much more.The seven-time Nobel Prize nominee, Dr. Johana Budwig, a pioneer of EFA research, reported success in treating heart infraction, arthritis, cancer, and other common diseases with massive doses of EFAs.Essential fatty acids are indispensable for the function and development of the brain and nervous system and the production of healthy cell membranes. They also supply hair and skin with necessary nutrients and aid in various other functions in the body.An alternative to fish oil : Fish oil supplements are a great source of EFAs, particularly Omega 3s, which is why they have become so popular. However, for those who are vegetarian, they are not an option. There are also concerns that some sources of fish oil are contaminated with mercury and other toxins. Hemp seed oil, which contains Omega 3, 6, and 9, is a great alternative that will provide the same benefits as fish oil without the danger of ingesting toxins.
• a good source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which makes the oil a rival to flax seed oil and Evening Primrose Oil. It is also an excellent alternative to fish oil supplements -- fish have been reported to be contaminated by mercury as well as other toxins. Nursing mothers and pregnant women may wish to use hemp seed oil instead of fish oil, as they reduce their intake of fish but maintain the level of essential fatty acids. Hemp seed oil has been found to be helpful in relieving pre-menstrual tension as well.
• for hair, skin, and nails : Hair, skin, and nails are all formed from the same line of dermal cells, so it is no surprise that people who use hemp oil report thicker and shinier hair, softer skin, and stronger nails. Since hemp seed oil is nearly identical to our own lipids, it is capable of penetrating our cells and lubricating the surfaces between them. It is used to nourish not only dry skin but blotches and lesions as well. It can detoxify the skin and even out skin tone. You can safely use hemp oil as a skin moisturizer without worry of it clogging the pores.
• Eczema : Of the many possible uses of hemp oil as a direct treatment, its efficacy at treating eczema is one of the most promising. Researchers, led by Dr. J. Callaway at the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Clinical Nutrition at the University of Kuopio, Finland, studied the benefits of hemp seed oil on patients with atopic dermatitis (eczema) and reported the following results: "We saw a remarkable reduction in dryness, itching and an overall improvement in symptoms."
• Only plant containing vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption
• contain a beneficial amount of amino acids, and vitamin E as well. It is a natural antioxidant, and the oil doesn't stick to your skin as many oils have a tendency to do. It is rich in not only Omega-3 and Omega-6, but also Omega-9.
• Skin : Many skin care products use hemp oil due to its ability to naturally soften the skin. You should not use the oil should as a topical agent because the skin cannot absorb it. By ingesting the oil, you may experience softer and clearer skin. Hemp oil rejuvenates the skin and acts as a lubricant while dead skin cells are being shed. The oil works from the inside and can aid with different types of skin conditions, including eczema.
• Relives premenstrual stress
• Has unequaled anti-inflammatory properties not found in other oils
• Is a natural sunblock
• Cancer : Hemp oil contains trace amounts of THC, which is the main chemical found in marijuana. As a result, hemp oil is illegal in most areas. THC can have mind-altering effects when used in large amounts, but it can keep your mind free and clear when used in small doses and is used for the treatment of some cancers. The oil has proven to be effective in reducing the amount of chemotherapy side effects that are suffered by cancer patients. The oil is able to effectively reduce the feeling of being light-headed as well as nausea. According to a 2007 study performed at Harvard Medical School, using THC in small doses was able to reduce the size of a tumor in the lung by half and prevent the cancer from spreading to other areas of the body. Recent studies by the American Association for Cancer Research have also shown that THC contributed to slowing the growth and development of brain cancer in human biopsies.
• Arthritis : People with arthritis have used hemp oil for its anti-inflammatory effects. Arthritis attacks the joints and is extremely painful. Stiffening and swelling are examples of the symptoms of arthritis and can be mild and uncomfortable or completely excruciating and debilitating. The balance of the essential fatty acids in hemp oil can aid in counteracting these painful symptoms.
• Other Benefits : Hemp oil has a variety of other benefits that make it useful, such as the ability to make your hair fuller and more shiny and make your fingernails grow stronger and longer. Hemp oil is packed with protein and is completely natural, so it's ideal if you are a vegetarian or vegan.