The hemp plant, Cannabis sativa, is the same species as the cannabis or marijuana seeds but contains only trace elements of THC. The seeds of the hemp plant have a mild nutty flavor and are extremely rich in protein, healthy fats, and minerals with many health benefits that are scientifically backed. Below are some of the health benefits of hemp seeds.
– Nutritious
Hemp seeds contain 30% fats and are exceptionally rich in the two most important essential fatty acids, omega 3 and omega 6, (the healthy fats), as well as gamma-linolenic acid which has several health benefits. More than 25% of total calories from hemp seeds are from high-quality protein. They also contain vitamin E and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, sulfur and zinc and iron.
– Heart Health
A great source of gamma-linolenic acid and arginine, hemp seeds have been found to reduce the risk of heart disease. The high amount of amino acid arginine in hemp seeds is used to produce nitric oxide, a gas molecule that causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to lower blood pressure which helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. Gamma-linolenic acid has been found to reduce inflammation and animal studies have shown a decrease in the risk of blood clotting.
– Skin Health
The rich source of omega 3 and 6 in hemp seeds promote healthy blood levels of essential fatty acids that provide relief from symptoms of eczema, relieves dry itchy skin and reduces the need for medication.
– Complete Plant-Based Protein
Great info from oceania.gyo.green that the rich source of protein in hemp seeds contains all the essential amino acids needed by the body. Essential amino acids must be supplied by our diets and complete plant-based protein sources are very rare. Hemp seeds contain cysteine and methionine amino acids as well as glutamic acid and arginine.
– Reduces Symptoms of Menopause and PMS
Emotional and physical symptoms caused by PMS are most likely caused by a sensitivity to the prolactin hormone. The GLA in hemp seeds reduces the effects of prolactin on the production of prostaglandin E1, which is linked to a significant decrease in the symptoms of PMS. It has also been linked to a reduction in breast tenderness, irritability, depression, and fluid retention. It has also been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of menopause.
Although the benefits of hemp seeds have only become popular recently, they have been an excellent source of nutrition and health for thousands of years.