Hemp Wellness

Hemp is one of the planet’s most versatile crops, and wellness is a large and growing application of some varietals of the plant. It’s important to draw a distinction between the kind of hemp grown for CBD and other cannabinoids, and hemp grown for fiber and grain (seed). Cannabinoid hemp is grown specifically for the extraction of potentially beneficial chemicals within the plant, such as CBD. Industrial hemp, on the other hand, is grown for industrial fiber biomanufacturing, and for nutrition.

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Cannabinoid Hemp

To many, “cannabis” means “THC,” but that’d far from the whole story. THC is a cannabinoid, and is the main psychoactive component of recreational and medicinal cannabis. Though at the time of this writing recreational cannabis containing THC is legal in 24 states, it is not federally legal. However, cannabinoid hemp that contains 0.03% THC or less is federally legal. Though THC is conspicuously absent, cannabinoid hemp contains many other naturally occurring potentially beneficial chemicals. You may be familiar with CBD, which is one of hundreds of non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and CBC.

The Discovery of New Cannabinoids

So far, research suggests the non-psychoactive components of hemp may have significant wellness benefits, with applications reaching from treating anxiety, to inflammation, and even cancer. One of the most well-known cannabinoids, CBD, or cannabidiol, is being researched now for its potential to help with anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, and even addiction issues. The Harvard Medical School writes “We need more research, but CBD is proving to be a helpful, relatively non-toxic option for managing anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain.” CBN, or cannabinol may have uses as a sedative or sleep aid. CBG, cannabigerol may have the ability to ward off nausea and reduce inflammation. And CBC, cannabichromene may have cancer-fighting capabilities.

Researchers are working now to determine the best applications of the known cannabinoids, and to discover more. There are major cannabinoids and minor cannabinoids; the nomenclature refers to the percentage of overall cannabinoids in the plant, not the effectivity or potency of any given cannabinoid.

Grand View Research estimates the current cannabinoid market in the US is $11.5 billion and growing fast. Their report states:

“Rising research activities on minor cannabinoids further fuels the market growth… ongoing research studies about the use of minor cannabinoids in a range of disorders and the presence of extensive funding organizations are further fueling segment growth.”

Industrial Hemp Health and Wellness Benefits

Industrial Hemp is not grown for cannabinoids, but rather grown for fiber, seed and seed oil. Hemp seed oil has wellness applications that have nothing to do with cannabinoids. The oil derived from hemp seeds, has been used by humans for centuries, and modern science is just beginning to make sense of exactly what the benefits of internal and external use of hemp seed oil are.

According to researchers, the health benefits of ingesting hemp seed oil come from its high content of three polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and gamma-linolenic acid. Its ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is 3:1, the ratio experts agree is ideal for health benefits in humans.

Hemp seed oil is reported to provide the following health benefits:

Improved Skin
A dermatology study found that oral consumption of hemp seed oil improves symptoms of eczema. Researchers think this is due to the fatty acids found in hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is also useful in treating a range of other skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, and cradle cap. Hemp seed oil has also been found to strengthen skin and make it better able to resist infection.

Blood Pressure
Naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seed oil have been found to lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. Research recommends using omega-3 fatty acid supplements along with blood pressure medicine to lower blood pressure.

Heart Health
Studies have shown that eating a diet high in linoleic acid significantly reduces total cholesterol and LDL, also know as “bad” cholesterol, and hemp seed oil is rich in linoleic acid. Lowering cholesterol levels reduces the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.

Pain Relief
You can apply hemp seed oil directly to external painful areas for natural pain relief. Hemp seed oil’s anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain! Be careful not to apply to broken skin or open wounds without first consulting your doctor!

Inflammation Reduction
Gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) present in hemp seed oil has been shown to reduce inflammation in humans. A review of studies suggests GLA is effective in relieving symptoms of inflammatory conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and even multiple sclerosis.

Supports a Healthy Pregnancy
Hemp seed oil’s high omega-3 fatty acid content makes it a beneficial supplement for women who are pregnant. Studies found that omega-3 fatty acids are vital during pregnancy. They support healthy brain and eye development for the baby and may also help prevent maternal depression.

This should not be taken as medical advice. Consult a medical professional before undertaking any course of treatment for any condition.