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Times are quickly changing for Hemp in India as many North Indian states have started legalizing Hemp and are also looking at legalizing Cannabis in general ! There is still a lot of confusion in people's minds about the Hemp Plant (Cannabis Sativa strain) and the female Cannabis Indica strain which bears the bud, often used interchangeably. Let's begin with clearing the fog around "Hemp" with this informative article shared by "Health Horizons", a brand I came across recently after I stumbled upon some really awesome Hemp products at an Organic store in a quaint spiritual town somewhere in South India. I bought their Sativa Powder and the Hemp Oil to make my smoothies even more magical and they most definitely did turn out so ... With the first sip I knew this is what a natural high feels like and that this is what I'll be having on a regular basis ... and hence continues my love for everything Hemp ... :)

What are Hemp Seeds?

Hemp seeds are nothing but unique (like each one of us) plant-based consumable seeds. Hemp seeds are obtained naturally from the Hemp plant. First, let us walk you through few of its awesome uses, health benefits, nutritional value and eventually, its myth busters.

You may have seen them sprinkled onto plates of mixed greens or smoothie bowls on Social Mediums or many blogs, or maybe you haven’t seen them at all. The latter occurs to a great extent since hemp seeds are still not allowed for human consumption in various parts of the world. Especially in India which is now changing with a few states having legalized it.

Hemp seeds are the most nutritious seeds in the world. They are obtained from the hemp plant which is scientifically termed as Cannabis Sativa. Hemp is often mistaken for its association with Cannabis Indica (Marijuana). Cannabis Indica has its own properties and it’s used for recreational and even medicinal purposes. Whereas, Hemp seeds, Hemp protein powder, and Hemp oil are used for consumption.

Sativa seeds are hard-shelled, single-seeded organic products. Mostly, the de-hulled seeds are used for consumption purposes. Optimal health and well being are the gifts offered by Sativa seeds. Moreover, it helps in de-stressing, which is a major cause of various disorders in our body.

By using Hemp on a regular diet, humongous health benefits can be obtained; which will be covered in this post later on.



Hemp Seeds Nutrition

Sativa seeds contain Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, D and E along with Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc.

The protein content in Hemp is high which helps in strengthening the immune system. It is a complete source of 20 Amino acids, out of which 9 are essential Amino acids which cannot be produced by our body. The immune system is enhanced by its regular consumption which in turn improves muscle building capacities. One-third of hemp protein is Albumin, the protein that is found in egg whites.

Sativa seeds are the most digestible protein than any protein-rich foods. They are undoubtedly high-quality proteins that can be consumed by Bodybuilders, Elderly, Mothers, Babies, and simply EVERYONE.

It contains Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) which is an Omega 6 fatty acid. This fatty acid is known for its special ability to fend off diseases like High blood pressure, Cancer etc. The ideal ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is 3:1 which is considered as an optimal ratio in a balanced diet. Meanwhile, Hemp seeds contain the perfect ratio of these acids.



Hemp Seeds Health Benefits

Guess what, Hemp seeds offer enormous health benefits and it is used in various health conditions for all age groups of people. These seeds are power packed sources of various Nutrients, Minerals, and Essential Fatty acids.

Here are 16 Health benefits offered by Hemp seeds and their explanation follows as you reach the end of the list.

Metabolic Health
Rich in Essential Nutrients
Reduces inflammation – Reduces dermatitis
Antioxidants in Hemp seeds
Balances bad cholesterol – Cholesterol range
Heart health recovers
Regulates hormones – Hormone function enhances
Menopause symptoms –
Hemp oil for Skin, hair, and Nails
Weight loss
Hypertension
Plant-based protein diet
Energizes Immune system
Boosts muscle mass – Builds muscles
Rich in GLA – Rich in Gamma-Linolenic acid
Stress Buster


Metabolic Health

The fibers present in hemp seeds helps in various digestive benefits. Hemp seeds are rich in Fiber which is helpful in maintaining overall metabolic health. A high fiber diet normalizes bowel movements, maintain bowel health, lowers cholesterol levels, controls blood sugar levels, and helps in achieving a healthy weight. Dietary fibers are also helpful in the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Be sure to include dietary fibers in your overall diet plans. Foods rich in dietary fiber are listed below:

Vegetables
Fruits
Whole-grain products
Beans, peas and other legumes
Hemp seeds
Nuts





Rich in Essential Nutrients

Hemp seeds get its title “Superfood” for the presence of various essential nutrients in it. It is rich in Proteins and Essential fatty acids such as Omega 3, 6, 9 and GLA. Hemp seeds contain 35% fatty acids and 33% proteins in them. It is also an abundant source of GLA (Gamma-Linolenic acid).

It is a vital source of Trace minerals such as Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Calcium, Sodium, Vitamins E, D, C, B6, B2, B1 and A. Minerals cannot be produced by living organisms, only plants have the capacity to absorb minerals from the soil. And Hemp is so good at it.

Nutrition Fact per 30gm serving is tabulated below



Reduces Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation is an essential part of the body’s immune response. It is the attempt of the body to heal itself after an injury and repair tissue damages. But Chronic inflammation can be problematic. Lack of proportionate intake of Omega-6 fatty acids to that of Omega-3 fatty acids constitutes the cause for chronic inflammation.

Hemp seeds contain anti-inflammatory component GLA and a significant amount of Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids in the ratio of 3:1. This makes hemp a natural anti-inflammatory power-packed source.

A study found that people in taking hemp for eczema have experienced less dryness and itchiness on the skin. This study was recorded over a period of 20 weeks.



Antioxidants in Hemp Seeds

Hemp seed is rich in Vitamin E which is a very helpful antioxidant. Vitamin E reduces oxidative stress in the body. Alzheimer’s disease can be cured by reducing oxidative stress. Phytol present in hemp seed is a powerful antioxidant which is known for its antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Hemp seeds also contain natural antioxidants such as Tocopherols and Phenolic compounds. Hemp is essential in getting us the much-needed antioxidants.



Balances Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol built up on arteries can lead to stroke and various other health issues. As we know, hemp seeds contain more than 30% of fat from Omega-6 and 3 which assists in speeding up metabolism. This helps in idealistic cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.



Heart Health Recovers

Proper balancing of Cholesterol and fatty acids in regular diet plays a vital role in improving heart health. Hemp seeds are naturally balanced considering their chemical compositions. Saturated fats are also important for the normal functioning of the heart and the body. This is important to avoid heart attacks and strokes.

The high fiber content found in hemp seeds boosts the functioning of the heart, thereby, making it healthy. Fiber scrapes off the deposits of cholesterol from the artery walls and sends them to excretory system. The excretory system processes and eliminates cholesterol out of the body.





Menopause and Hormone Function


Severe menopause symptoms, mood swings, depression, and anxiety are the major symptoms of hormonal imbalances. The Gamma Linolenic Acid present in hemp seeds acts as a hormone regulator for thyroid and pancreas. This helps in maintaining a hormonal balance and eliminating the disorders.

It is also responsible for regulating hormones that affect weight gain and hunger. Since healthy weight gain is achievable by regular intake of hemp seeds in the diet. Optimal balance of hormonal functions is essential for the overall health of the body. Eventually, Hemp is a natural remedy in regulating them.





Hemp oil for Skin, Hair, and Nails


Hemp seed oil, a gifted ingredient, is prepared by cold-pressing of hemp seeds can be used in daily beauty routines. It can be applied externally or even consumed directly to enjoy the benefits.

It helps in neutralizing breakouts in the acne-prone skin and also acts as a makeup remover. Massaging the skin with hemp oil adds an even complexion to the skin.

Hemp oil can be applied to nails directly. It acts as a natural nail repair oil. It also cleanses nail linings and makes nails grow stronger and healthier. Regular application of hemp oil enhances the texture of nails.

Your hair’s natural strength, softness, and shine can be restored by the use of hemp oil. Hemp oil reduces inflammation in the scalp and can be applied directly. Regular massaging of the scalp with hemp oil strengthens the follicles of hair.



Weight Loss

Proteins in hemp seeds regulate blood sugar levels and continuously energizes the body helping in fewer carvings for high-calorie treats. Energy is maintained until your next meal and reduces the cravings for mindless snacking.

Fiber present in hemp seeds gives a fuller feeling for a long time which naturally reduces food consumption and paving way for healthier eating habits. This helps in weight loss by regulating metabolism and fewer cravings for processed foods or snacks.

Hemp Seeds
Hemp Seeds

Hypertension

The high blood pressure measured in the body is termed as Hypertension. This condition is often termed as the “Silent Killer”. There will be no symptoms or negligible symptoms. Hemp seeds help in reducing the blood pressure, thereby, reducing hypertension in return. This reduces complications such as stroke and maintains overall wellness in bodily functions.

Due to changes in lifestyle, more than 10 million people in India and 85 million people in the United States are reported to suffer from hypertension. Avoiding a healthy balanced diet is one of the major causes for it.



Plant-based Protein Diet

Apart from other protein sources, hemp seeds area purely plant-based protein. Hemp seeds are a power packed with an abundance of proteins and other nutrients like we have seen before. This can be safely used by all age groups. Hemp protein can be consumed by Lactose intolerant people and also a Gluten-free diet.

Hemp is often known as a complete protein due to the nutrients present in it. The Hemp protein consists of 20 amino acids that include 9 essential amino acids that cannot be produced by the body. It is also rich in fiber and offers a number of health benefits.


Energizes Immune System

Hemp seeds have numerous health benefits which offer whole body nutrition. Therefore, the immune system gets healthier and energizes the body to fight against diseases. Immune system as a whole manages healthier white blood cells.

There are various factors that affect the immune system. But nutrient rich hemp helps to energize the system and recover the health of the body.



Builds Muscles

Since hemp seeds contain essential fatty acids and proteins, it helps the body to create new tissue and strengthens muscle mass and density. Adding hemp to regular diet eventually helps in building muscles. Hemp seed is rich in bioavailable enzymes and good bacteria which converts amino acids into muscles.

Hemp seeds are rich in albumin and globulin which is an easily digestible protein. Strength training athletes can gain healthy muscle by adding hemp in their workout diet.



Rich in GLA


Gamma Linolenic Acid which is commonly known as GLA is an Omega-6 fatty acid that is found in very few sources but it offers extraordinary health benefits. Hemp is an abundant source of Gamma Linolenic Acid.

GLA found in hemp helps to regulate hormonal imbalance and inflammation associated with menopause.



Stress Buster

Excess amounts of stress can even kill you. Stress creates various side effects in the body. Short-term stress can be leveraging whereas long-term stress is harmful.

Phytocannabinoids and Terpenes present in hemp have a positive effect on our neurological well-being. Regular consumption of hemp seeds has been proved to reduce stress and anxiety which normalizes blood pressure too.



How to eat Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are little gems that can be eaten as Toppings on Salads.
Hemp milk can be extracted from seeds and consumed.
Smoothies can be prepared with hemp seeds in it.
Hemp seed oil can be used as a top-up for dishes after cooking.
Hemp seeds can be used to make protein bars.
These can even be munched raw as they have a nutty earthy flavor !


Try out various Hemp recipes from the Delicious hemp seed recipes section on the Health Horizons website and enjoy a healthier feast.

I'm waiting for my package to arrive with some of the latest hemp goodies from their store !

Definitely worth checking out ! I hope you too can bring the power of Hemp into your life and see how it shifts things for better, in all ways possible !


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