Hemp oil is having a moment. Forgotten for decades because of its association with cannabis’s notorious image, it’s making a strong comeback in our kitchens… and bathrooms! Let’s take a closer look at this lovely green oil, packed with benefits, and good for almost everything!
What is hemp oil?
Hemp is a subspecies of plants from the Cannabis Sativa species. It is cultivated for industrial, textile or agricultural use. Generally it is selected for the size of its stem (textile) and its low THC content (the psychotropic substance “strong” in cannabis, consumed for recreational purposes). It should be noted that hemp also contains very little CBD – around 3 to 4%. Thus, cannabidiol extracts currently marketed (for pain relief or sedative purposes) are generally derived from cannabis plants cultivated for medicinal purposes.
Hemp oil is extracted from hemp seeds. It is used among other things in human nutrition and cosmetics, as it has many properties for the body and skin. Very popular until the 19th century, it gradually fell into obscurity, until experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years.
The unique composition of hemp oil
Hemp seeds are nutritionally rich. Thus the hulled seed contains:
- 9% carbohydrates
- 49% lipids, well balanced between saturated and mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids
- 31% protein, sources of 8 essential amino acids
- Vitamins – B group, A, C, E
- Many minerals
Hemp oil therefore has dietary qualities, as it is a reliable and well-balanced source of omega-3, -6 and -9. Thus, it contains approximately:
- 8% saturated fats, including stearic acid and palmitic acid
- 55% linoleic acid (omega-6)
- 15% alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3)
- 12% oleic acid (omega-9)
What are the benefits of hemp oil?
1- Health benefits
Cholesterol-lowering properties of hemp oil
The main health advantage of hemp vegetable oil is undoubtedly its unique nutritional composition. A combination of several essential fatty acids, it has a positive effect on cholesterol levels – consumed regularly, it helps lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in favor of good (HDL). Provided it is consumed raw, as a dressing, as it tolerates heat very poorly. Its subtle hazelnut flavor makes it the perfect partner for salads, tabbouleh, vegetables and carpaccios.
Hemp oil against cardiovascular disease
A second property that echoes the first: regular consumption of hemp oil can protect against cardiovascular risks, such as atherosclerosis (cholesterol deposits on artery walls), myocardial infarction or stroke. The vitamin B3 (or niacinamide) it contains not only has a positive effect on blood circulation, but also on blood cholesterol, which it lowers. Thus it protects arterial health and reduces cardiovascular risk. This action is further reinforced by hemp oil’s high potassium content. A vital trace element, it contributes to proper heart function (potassium levels being directly involved in cellular hyperexcitability, particularly cardiac) and tends to lower blood pressure. Hemp oil is truly a friend to our heart!
Hemp oil to boost immunity
Another property of hemp oil: its richness in vitamin C. Ascorbic acid is necessary for proper human metabolism – its deficiency causes scurvy among other things, a disease very common until the early 20th century, especially among sailors, who did not have access to dietary sources of vitamin C (classically, fruits and vegetables). It indeed allows you to strengthen the immune system, a guarantee of protection against infections, viruses and bacteria. Thus, regular consumption of hemp vegetable oil, particularly in autumn and winter, protects against minor ailments – colds, flu, gastroenteritis… Furthermore, hemp oil helps the body fight oxidative stress, that is, the accumulation of free radicals (sun, pollution, external aggressions) in the body.
Brain health and hemp oil
The combination of three micronutrients – vitamins B1 and B3, magnesium and vitamin C – gives hemp oil interesting properties for brain and neurological health. Indeed:
- Vitamin B1, or thiamine, enables energy production from dietary carbohydrates. Since the brain is glucose-dependent, it fully benefits from the consumption of this vitamin. Furthermore, thiamine is the precursor of TPP, a neurotransmitter essential for proper neurological function.
- Vitamin B3 is useful in the process of regulating hormones related to stress.
- Vitamin C prevents the accumulation of free radicals in the body, including in the brain. Furthermore, it is a recognized “anti-fatigue” agent – and asthenia is often a triggering element of depression.
- Magnesium could reduce the risk of anxiety, stress, or even insomnia, in some people. A vital mineral, the body does not produce it. Thus only dietary intake can support the body’s magnesium needs. Hence the interest in consuming hemp oil.
Muscle and bone strength
Finally, hemp oil has benefits for muscle and bone health. Its richness in phosphorus allows for better calcium absorption from dietary sources, for greater bone and dental strength. Furthermore, hemp oil contains magnesium, which helps facilitate muscle function (cramping in case of deficiency) and prevent the risk of osteoporosis. A significant advantage for women, as they are often deficient in magnesium (a deficiency due to menstruation). Finally, the vitamin B1 in hemp oil allows muscles and nerves to function optimally and benefit from sufficient energy supply (conversion of carbohydrates into sugar).
2- Beauty benefits
The mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids contained in hemp oil are essential for good dermatological health. Indeed, these essential fatty acids, which the body cannot produce, contribute to:
- Reconstituting ceramides, which play a key role in maintaining and fluidity of cell membranes (linoleic acid).
- Limiting water loss from the skin and preserving the hydrolipidic film.
- Maintaining skin elasticity, while playing an anti-inflammatory role (alpha-linolenic acid).
Hemp oil is therefore an oil that is:
- Highly revitalizing for tired skin
- Soothing, particularly in case of redness, irritation
- Firming and softening, ideal for slimming or anti-cellulite
- Very emollient, while being dry and fast-absorbing, making it perfect for daily massages
Anti-cellulite action
It is thanks to its firming and revitalizing benefits that Cellublue decided to incorporate hemp vegetable oil into the composition of its Psychedelic Cellulite Gel.
The gel is also enriched with green coffee, extremely rich in lipolytic caffeine. Thus, applied daily to areas prone to dimpling, the gel acts on the different factors of cellulite:
- It strengthens the skin barrier which, firmer, displays a more smooth appearance.
- It promotes the draining action of adipocytes, for less visible cellulite.
- Combined with daily anti-cellulite massages, it helps restart microcirculation, limit water retention and eliminate subcutaneous toxins.
Anti-acne action
Hemp oil, which penetrates quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy finish, is particularly recommended for caring for acne-prone skin. With jojoba and hazelnut oils, it is one of the rare vegetable oils that can be used on problem skin without exacerbating oiliness (excessive sebum secretion). Furthermore, it soothes inflammation, and acne is an inflammatory condition. So, when suffering from skin problems, it is in your best interest to incorporate hemp oil into your facial beauty routine.
Hair growth
Hemp vegetable oil is also very beneficial for hair and scalp. Its light texture is particularly suitable for fine, limp and/or dull hair, to which it brings density and shine. It also makes a good smoothing agent on unruly hair, and helps define curls well. But it is its action on growth that is prized, as it promotes hair growth. It can therefore be used in scalp massage, combined with castor oil. As an oil bath, added to shampoo, as a special mask for split ends, hemp oil is truly the friend of beautiful hair!
Anti-aging properties
Hemp oil is a natural anti-aging agent. The combination of its fatty acids, provitamins A and vitamins C and E help prevent the early appearance of signs of aging – wrinkles, skin dryness, hyperpigmentation spots. It can therefore be used pure on the face, particularly as an after-sun treatment or evening care. But it can also be incorporated into homemade skincare products, combined with another oil and/or essential oils (carrot, Damask rose, cistus, Ho wood…). Thus it will revitalize tired skin and prevent the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, for radiant skin.