An Intro to Hemp Oil

Hemp is a type of plant that contains organic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Its fibers are strong, and many parts of the plant are edible. Hempseed oil in particular is rich in healthful fatty acids that make it a healthy adjunct to many diets as well as an ingredient in beauty products. As hemp products become legal in more areas, it is worth exploring the uses of hempseed oil.

Essential Fatty Acids

The variety of hemp used for oil production is a distinct cultivar from drug plants. Very little THC is present in hempseed oil, (not enough for any psychoactive effect,) and it is considered a safe alternative to other types of vegetable oil. It is well-known for its essential fatty acid content, which includes Omega 3 fatty acids and others that the body needs. Essential fatty acids are those that the body cannot produce on its own and must absorb from food. Essential fatty acids are thought to promote good health and tissue repair.

Vitamins and Minerals

Aside from fatty acids, the body needs vitamins that are either fat soluble or water soluble. Hempseed oil is rich in fat soluble vitamins, and it contains minerals that are rare, yet essential, for the body. This convenient food ingredient adds calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron and potassium to the diet.

Uses

Hempseed oil can be used in salad dressing and to make bread. It can also be used as an alternative to butter in many different recipes, and it can be drizzled over pasta. You can use a small amount in smoothies without altering the taste of the beverage. A teaspoon of hempseed oil every day is sufficient to reap its many health benefits.

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