5 Amazing Health Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil

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Hemp seed has long been valued and utilized throughout the East as a treatment for a variety of ailments. In the West, however, hemp has long been associated with illicit use of marijuana and this has somewhat damaged the way people perceive it in regards to a health product. As a matter of fact, though, hemp oil contains only very small amounts of THC’s, the active ingredient in marijuana, and as people in the United States become more aware of this fact, hemp is making something of a comeback – and rightly so. It brings with it a wide array of health benefits, such as though discussed below.

Promotes Heart Health

One of the most important benefits of hemp seed oil is its promotion of heart health. Heart disease remains the number one killer in the United States, usually brought on by a combination of poor eating habits, a sedentary lifestyle, and chronic stress, among other causative factors. Hemp oil, however, can help reverse some of this damage since it has a three-to-one ration of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids, a ratio shown to support good cardiac function and decrease the changes of heart disease or stroke.

Nourishes Skin, Hair and Nails

Hemp seed oil can be used topically as well and in this function can be an excellent moisturizer for the skin, combatting redness, itchiness or irritation. Its powerful antioxidant properties can reverse damage to the skin caused by the aging process and reduce inflammation as well. It nutrients also help to nourish the hair and nails and make them stronger and less inclined to break, dry out or become dull.

Supports Good Cognitive Function

Hemp seed oil is an incredibly rich source of docosahexaenoic acid (better known as DHA), which is often found in a variety of supplements. This is because DHA is essential for the continued acuity and good health of the brain and has a positive effect on eye health as well. As a matter of fact, many nutritionists encourage women to take this supplement during pregnancy to help with the neural and visual development of their unborn children.

Is a Mercury-Free Source of Fatty Acids

Some of the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids are cold water fish such as salmon or tuna; unfortunately, this are the very kind of fish that are likely to contain mercury levels that are unhealthy, especially if consumed too frequently. Hemp seed oil has the dual virtues of both being able to provide high levels of Omega 3’s but at the same time being mercury-free.

Boost the Immune System

Hemp seed oil, like probiotics, foster a healthy development of flora in the intestines. This, in turn, helps to increase the immune response and make it easier for the body to fight off microbes and other disease-causing pathogens. It is especially helpful during the cold and flu season since it is antiviral as well.

This five benefits are just some of the reasons why hemp seed oil is worth a try. As more Americans become aware that this oil contains only very small amounts of THC’s, then it is likely that its use will become more widespread, especially once the varied health benefits it can bring are better understood by the public.

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Sandeep Godiyal
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. His areas of expertise including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.