Upon hearing the word “hemp” most people automatically link it with “marijuana” and refrain from finding out more about the beneficial herb.
Yes, it’s true that hemp and marijuana are both derived from the same plant family – cannabis, but they are both poles apart and produce very different effects.
How to let’s find out!
What is hemp seed oil?
As mentioned above, hemp and marijuana are different varieties of the same plant – cannabis.
But while marijuana contains high amounts of THC, the compound responsible for giving users the “high” feeling – hemp seed oil is derived from industrial or food-grade hemp which has little or no THC.
This makes it safe to use and unlike marijuana – hemp seed oil is considered legal in most parts of the United States and Canada.
In fact, Canada has set the maximum content of THC in hemp seed oil to be 0.3% and any level higher than that is considered marijuana instead. In comparison, most marijuana contains 5 – 20% THC.
So what is this THC?
Our body is equipped with several cannabinoid receptors that are responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system and blood formation.
They are also essential for cognitive processes such as memory, thinking, coordination, pleasure, and anxiety.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), when inhaled attaches itself to the receptors and affects the person’s way of thinking, problem-solving skills, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception.
On average, the effects of THC last for more than 2 hours and kicks in 10-15 minutes of ingestion.
In short, the high feeling you get from marijuana is solely associated with the properties of THC.
Rewind to the main question: Can you get high from hemp seed oil?
The above material must have answered your question perfectly. Since hemp seed oil contains no traces of THC; there is no way you can get high from hemp seed oil.
And like other readers, you will be surprised to know that while marijuana may not be suitable for anyone and strictly prohibited by law – users can gain maximum health benefits from hemp seed oil.
And believe it or not, but many health experts acclaim hemp seed to be “the most nutritionally complete food in the world”.
Read on to find out the health benefits of this herb.
What makes hemp seed oil healthy?
Hemp seeds are rich in protein, antioxidants, essential fatty acids specifically omega 3 and omega 6, and insoluble fiber.
It is also packed with minerals such as magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus as well as several microelements.
The health benefits of hemp seed oil
By consuming hemp seed oil regularly, users can benefit from:
- Low cholesterol omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids present in hemp seed oil help lower cholesterol levels by speeding up the metabolism which in turn aids in burning fat and prevents it from blocking the artery walls.
- Balanced sugar levels being low in sugar and carbohydrates, the hemp seed oil is a great food for diabetic patients as it helps balance sugar levels.
- Prevents psoriasis Since Psoriasis is caused by the deficiency of omega-6 fatty acids in the body, hemp seed oil users have a lower risk of developing the condition.
- Great for skinThe number of fatty acids present in hemp seed oil helps in nourishing the skin without any side effects. Regular massage of the oil on the skin can also prevent anti-aging effects as well as treat several skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
- Prevents varicose veins The high content of omega-3 helps thin the blood which greatly reduces the occurrence of blood clots and varicose veins.
- Regulates hormonal balance The gamma-linoleic acid present in the oil is eventually converted into the protective hormone prostaglandin PGE1 that balances hormones and even supports menopausal health.
These were just some of the benefits of hemp seed oil. Taking the natural supplement regularly can have a great impact on your health and you will definitely notice a difference in just a few days.
However, with all the good, there is a chance of some side effects such as indigestion that can occur with the ingestion of hemp seed oil.
Additionally, it is recommended that the oil is taken as directed and overdosage should be strictly prohibited.
Precautions to keep in mind when taking hemp seed oil for the first time
Although it has a number of benefits, hemp seed oil should be avoided by heart patients as well as those who are suffering from prostate cancer.
Pregnant women should also avoid taking hemp seed oil without seeking advice from their respective doctors.
- Do not heatHigh temperatures can break down the polyunsaturated fat into harmful peroxides. This is why hemp seed oil should not be used as an alternative to the frying oil.In fact, the easiest way to use hemp oil is to sprinkle it over meals, yogurts, salad, steamed veggies, and even soups. The bottle containing the hemp oil should also be tightly closed at all times and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Can cause digestive troubles As we mentioned above, hemp oil, especially when taken in large doses can cause digestive troubles such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- It can increase the risk of prostate cancer Despite all the benefits, users have a high risk of prostate cancer when taking hemp oil. Although not much research is present in this regard, health experts do claim that those who are at an increased risk of prostate cancer should avoid hemp oil completely.
- It works as an anticoagulantHemp oil that can increase blood clotting which is why those who are taking blood thinners or are suffering from cardiovascular problems should avoid taking hemp oil.
- Shelf life if stored properly, hemp oil can last up to a year. It is recommended that the bottle of oil is tightly closed at all times and stored in the refrigerator or freezer – away from direct sunlight.
With these guidelines in mind, we are sure that we have cleared all your misconceptions about hemp oil and are ready to explore the many health benefits of the herb. So get started and see the difference.