An introduction to Hemp – why is it so good for you?
Hemp used to be one of the cornerstones of British agriculture and was grown extensively for its use in rope, clothing and textiles – it even gave the town Hemel Hempstead its name. So what is hemp, and are there health benefits of hemp we should be taking advantage of?
Hemp is a variety of the cannabis sativa plant, and along with bamboo, it’s one of the fastest-growing plants in existence. It also offers fantastic nutrition and taste when eaten.
Unfortunately, although sprouting hemp from seed produces wonderfully nutritious edible shoots, it’s illegal to do so in the UK without an expensive Home Office licence. Luckily we are allowed to consume the seeds, which offer the following benefits:
Hemp is around one-third protein
Hemp is widely considered the finest plant-based protein. The average hemp seed is more than one-third protein. Hemp protein is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that humans need from food.
Hemp protein is easily digestible and contains a large amount of fibre, especially when made from unhulled seeds.
Hemp seeds contain a perfect three-to-one ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats, in that magic ratio, have been shown to work wonders protecting the body against many chronic health conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Research has shown that Omega fats can also help us feel full and therby act as an excellent tool for weight loss.
Hemp contains very high levels of the amino acid Arginine, which plays a very important role in maintaining heart health by repairing damaged blood vessels, maintaining the smooth running of heart muscles, regulating blood platelet interactions with the arterial wall and regulating a healthy blood pressure.
This medical paper from 2010 lays out many of the benefits of hemp seeds to the health of the human heart.
Hemp seeds, especially when unhulled, are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fibre.
The soluble fibre regulates cholesterol and is superb for the benficial bacteria in the body’s digestive system, while the insoluble fibre helps food pass through the gut, and has been linked to a lower risk from diabetes.
Hemp is a wonderful pain-reliever
Hemp oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and has long been used by people to rub into skin after physical exertion for the purposes of relieving aches and tension, and to relax and soothe muscles.
It's superb for women's health
Hemp can stimulate the production of prostaglandins, lipid compounds found in almost every human tissue, which have hormone-like effects in the body and help in a variety of ways including reducing period pains and menstrual cramps.
There is also evidence that consuming hemp helps with the hot flushes and mood changes that occur during menopause.
Hemp has long been used, both internally and topically, as a means of treating various skin conditions. This research article concluded that it was very effective when used to combat atopic dermatitis.
Hemp oil helps to hydrate your skin, and won’t clog your pores. It also has potent antibacterial properties which will help protect your outer layer!
We have a large range of hemp products – seeds, both whole and shelled, flour, protein powder, oil, and many natural foods containing hemp – come and have a look here!