What is hemp oil?
Hemp oil is oil derived from the seeds of the hemp plant. To extract the oil from the
hemp seeds to press, cold pressing is used, meaning the oil is pressed below 40 degrees Celsius. This is necessary to preserve the oil's properties. In fact, too much heat causes healthy fats to oxidise and break down, resulting in a decrease in the nutritional value of the final product.
Which plant is hemp oil made from?
Hemp oil is made from the fibre hemp plant, or what is also called industrial hemp. In recent years, the hemp plant has been best known for its high concentration of CBD. The hemp plant also has a low content of THC, the substance in marijuana that gets you high. Hemp oil therefore has no psychoactive effects and is perfectly legal.
Hemp seed oil and hemp oil
When we talk about hemp oil, it refers to hemp seed oil. This is just like the names in English, also referred to as 'hemp seed oil' or 'hemp oil'. For a while in the 1990s, it looked as if the sale of products derived from the fibre hemp plant would be banned in America. Fortunately, thanks in part to superfood brand Nutiva, this ban did not materialise and the oil pressed from hemp seeds is still legally available in America.
Hemp oil healthy?
Hemp oil has the ideal ratio of 3:1 of essential omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. This very ratio is easy for the human body to process. It has valuable Omega-3 (SDA) and Omega-6 (GLA), which can help the body digest fat. Hemp oil contains all 20 amino acids (including the 9 essential amino acids) and also contains magnesium, iron and vitamin E.
The active substances of hemp seed oil
Hemp oil is known for its various important nutrients, such as healthy fats and vital minerals. Firstly, hemp oil contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. In addition, the oil contains chlorophyll and is also a source of antioxidants such as vitamin E, carotene, phospholipids, phytosterols. The vital minerals are known as sulphur, phosphorus, calcium, potassium and magnesium along with a small amount of zinc and iron. You can also find a unique combination of CLA, oleic acid and stearidonic acid in the oil.
Essential fatty acids in hemp seed oil
Hempseed oil contains Omega-6 (linoleic acid) and Omega-3 (alpha linolenic acid). These are essential fatty acids, meaning your body cannot make it itself. Hemp oil is also rich in another form of Omega-6, gamma linoleic acid (GLA). With a proper diet, you can make this substance yourself, but in some people, this does not happen in sufficient quantities.
using hemp oil
Hemp seed oil has a fresh yellow-green colour and a delicious nutty flavour. Use it for a dressing, salad, sauce, a juice, fruit drink, smoothie or sprinkle some over your freshly baked pizza, bread or cooked vegetables. You can also use it as a base for your fresh tapenade, its nutty flavour, giving it that extra delicious bite. The possibilities are endless!
Just make sure not to heat hemp seed oil, as many nutrients will be lost and that would be a shame! It is the important omega fatty acids in hemp seed oil that contribute to good health. If you are a vegetarian then this is the perfect alternative to fish oil thanks to its perfect ratio of omega fatty acids.
How much hemp oil per day?
When you incorporate 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp seed oil into your daily diet every day, it ensures that you take full advantage of the health benefits that hemp seed oil has to offer. Among other things, it is good for brain function and the immune system. Furthermore, hemp seed oil can help strengthen bones and muscles and reduce various physical ailments. Apart from adding it to your menu, another way to take care of your body from the inside out with hemp seed oil is Oil Pulling: Every morning, you can start your day by rinsing your mouth with a tablespoon of Hemp Seed Oil. After all, it's good for your teeth and gums!
Hemp oil for the skin
Omega 3 and 6 are important fatty acids in hemp oil. Hemp seed oil can be used anywhere on the body, as hemp face oil or body oil. It is important to buy organic, unrefined and cold-pressed hemp seed oil from a reliable webshop. This way, you can be sure you are using a hemp oil of the highest quality and free of chemicals. Here are my 3 favourite ways to use hemp oil for a flawless complexion.
Hemp seed oil is non-comedogenic which means it will not clog pores. Avoid skin products that contain harsh chemicals and try hemp seed oil.
Hemp oil storage
Hemp oil, as mentioned above, is sensitive to heat. Therefore, store the oil at a low temperature, it is best to keep it in the fridge. If kept sealed in a cool and dark place after opening, the oil will keep for another 8 to 12 weeks. If the oil is kept in the fridge, the flavour will be fuller when taken out before use.
Hemp oil for the skin
Hemp seed oil regenerates and activates the skin's protective layer. Due to its high content of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, hemp oil has a composition similar to skin lipids, making it an excellent natural and emollient moisturiser. It is especially useful for dry, tired or dehydrated skin and nails. It increases skin elasticity and water retention capacity in tissues. Pure hemp oil can be used for skin or to treat dry hair. Hemp oil is often included in cosmetics such as hemp shampoo.
Buying hemp oil: where can I get it?
At HEMP i SHOP, two different types of hemp oil are available from the TerraSana and Hanf Natur brands. Both products are certified organic. There is also hemp seed oil plus from Medihemp to which a small amount of 0.2% CBD has been added.