More people are turning to natural remedies to improve their health. Because of this, hemp has become a staple ingredient in the wellness industry. Hemp is a versatile plant that people have cultivated for thousands of years, using its fiber, seeds, and oil to improve their quality of life.

If you’ve ever considered using hemp to improve your gut health, alleviate skin conditions, or assist your immune system, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn what hemp is and discover the health benefits of hemp consumption. 

What Is Hemp?

Hemp is a plant that belongs to the Cannabis sativa species. Hemp can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a source of food, clothing, paper, and medicine. 

The hemp plant has a tall and skinny stalk, and it can grow up to 20 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are palmately compound, which means they have many leaflets that radiate out from a central point. In the right conditions, hemp plants also produce small greenish-yellow flowers. Hemp seeds come from the female variety of the flowers. 

Hemp is known for its low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis plant. As a result, hemp is not typically used for its recreational or medicinal properties. Rather, it’s used for industrial and commercial applications. Certain strains of hemp can be high in cannabidiol (CBD), which is a non-psychoactive compound associated with a variety of health benefits.

Is CBD From Hemp Safe?

CBD (cannabidiol) is generally considered safe when derived from hemp. This is because it contains trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD cannot produce a similar “high”.

CBD derived from hemp is legal in the United Kingdom as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. It’s important to note that the safety and efficacy of CBD products can vary widely. It depends on the quality and purity of the product, as well as the dosage and method of administration. Small scale hemp processing plants allow producers of CBD products to monitor the CBD’s quality and purity. 

The Health Benefits of Hemp

Hemp, or CBD, interacts with many different processes in the body. These interactions are associated with many health benefits. 

It’s important to note that while hemp has many potential health benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the body. It’s important to consult with your GP before using hemp or any other dietary supplement.

Read on for a breakdown of the health benefits of consuming hemp.  

1. Rich in Nutrients

Hemp is a rich source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, essential fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals.

Hemp protein contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs to build and repair tissues. It is rich in magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. These are essential minerals the body uses to maintain bone health, immune function, and overall wellness. It contains several important vitamins, like vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. 

Hemp is also a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can promote digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels.

Lastly, hemp contains a variety of beneficial plant compounds, including cannabinoids (such as CBD), flavonoids, and terpenes, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other health-promoting properties.

2. May Reduce Inflammation

Hemp products contain compounds called cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Scientists are unsure of the exact mechanism by which CBD reduces inflammation, but studies suggest that they may work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of cell receptors and signaling molecules. It helps regulate various physiological processes, including inflammation and immune function.

Hemp is useful for reducing inflammation and pain associated with conditions such as arthritis. Although inflammation is a natural immune response and an essential part of the body’s healing process, chronic inflammation can damage tissues and organs, impair their function, and contribute to the development and progression of a wide range of chronic diseases. 

3. May Improve Heart Health

Hemp contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been shown to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. CBD has been shown to have a vasodilatory effect, which means it may relax and widen blood vessels to reduce blood pressure.

Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for heart disease. This means CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects may reduce your chance of heart disease by reducing inflammation in your cardiovascular system.

4. May Reduce Anxiety and Depression

CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant effects. This is due to how it interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. These receptors are involved in regulating mood, anxiety, and stress levels. By regulating serotonin levels, the CBD in hemp may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.

Hemp CBD has also been linked to improved sleep quality, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing stress and anxiety. 

5. May Help with Skin Conditions

Topical hemp oil has been shown to be effective in treating skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. It also assists the skin’s natural barrier function. This helps to prevent moisture loss and protect against environmental stressors like pollution. 

The CBD contained in hemp may also be an effective treatment against acne, as it regulates the production of sebum, the oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. Excess sebum production can contribute to blocked pores, acne, and other skin problems.

6. May Help with Digestive Issues

It’s thought that CBD interacts with your ECS. This system is involved in regulating many bodily functions, hormone production, and regulating receptors in the gut, nervous system, digestive tract, and brain. Because of these processes, the CBD found in hemp may impact your appetite regulation, reduce inflammation in the gut, and improve gut motility.  

Hemp also contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which aids your digestive tract and prevents constipation.

Restoring Health and Wellness With Hemp

By now, you should know the health benefits of hemp consumption. Whether you’re hoping to improve acne symptoms, reduce your risk for heart disease, or regulate your gut function, hemp and CBD can be incredibly beneficial to you. 

If you found this post interesting, be sure to check out the rest of our blog for the latest information on health and wellness.

Published by HOLR Magazine.