What Is Hemp Seed Oil? An Introduction To Holistic Health

The wonders of the hemp plant have led to many uses for different people, from the use of hemp fabrics, to the advancement of modern-day cosmetics. The multidimensional hemp plant has also been anecdotally purported to provide a fascinating array of uses to support our holistic health and well-being. 

Therefore, it is no surprise that the legalisation of hemp-derived goods has exploded the popularity of products such as hemp seed oil, with consumers eager to explore the potential benefits for themselves. However, with so much buzz around the hemp plant, it's essential to understand the unique properties of its products to select one that is right for you. In this article, we look to explore hemp seed oil and how it may help you to improve your holistic health.

Hemp seed oil is a nutrient-rich oil produced by cold-pressing the small seeds of the hemp plant. It is famous for its inclusion of vitamins, minerals, essential Omega fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6), and otherwise bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants. 

Hemp seed oil's content opens the possibility for many potentially beneficial uses, from helping to deliver the body with the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy diet to promote supple skin through intense moisturisation.

The term "hemp oil" is being increasingly used in the consumer marketplace to refer to oils derived from the hemp plant. The issue is that this could include both CBD oil and hemp seed oil, causing misconception amongst many consumers. 

Despite similar beginnings, the two oils are known for having very different uses for consumption. Unlike its counterpart CBD oil, which is created from the hemp plant's cannabinoid-rich stems, leaves, and flowers, hemp seed oil contains no (or trace amounts of) cannabinoids.

For this reason, hemp seed oil is not believed to possess the potential therapeutic benefits CBD oil is famous for. Instead, hemp seed oil receives high praise for its nutrient-rich content, including vitamins, minerals, essential Omega fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6), and antioxidants. Therefore, we recommend researching both oils to allow you to select the one that is most appropriate for your needs.

Although both types of oils contain little to no chance of causing intoxicating effects on its users, the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an intoxicating chemical compound found in the hemp plant, in full-spectrum products is an unwanted addition to those seeking hemp seed oil.

The inclusion of THC can potentially have severe consequences for those who have a low tolerance to the chemical compound, as well as those who are required to take regular drug tests for work, such as police officers and athletes. 

A common motivating factor for brands to label hemp seed oil as "hemp oil" is that it allows them to charge a higher price, targeting unassuming consumers who believe they are purchasing CBD oil. This cunning marketing ploy often works as CBD oil is generally more expensive than hemp seed oil, and is known to contain many potential therapeutic benefits making it highly desirable.

Although hemp seed oil is not only cheaper than CBD oil, it also includes its own powerful array of uses and benefits. Therefore, one is not seen as superior to the other - instead, it is essential to know which one you are looking to purchase! If you wish to buy CBD oil, then always check the label for its cannabinoid content.

Hemp seed oil has already established itself in the daily routines of many health and well-being enthusiasts. The purported benefits seen from the use of hemp seed oil align well with the ideals of holistic health. However, before we explore the ways in which hemp seed oil can help improve your holistic health, let's explore what this all-encompassing term actually means. 

Holism derives from the Greek word holos, and is translated to mean "whole". This, therefore, indicates that the term' holistic health' means we look at the whole picture, typically considering the person in total perspective as mind, body, and spirit. 

To look at holistic health, it goes beyond the use of modern medicine to eliminate symptoms. This means holistic health sees modern medicine, alongside all other ways we care for our health, such as yoga and mindfulness, as a whole.

Hemp seed oil has become one of the most desired oils in the health and well-being industry for its rich profile of vitamins, minerals, essential Omega fatty acids, and antioxidant content. But what exactly does it do for the body? Let's take a look! 

Hemp Seed Oil as a Nutritional Food Supplement

Hemp seed oil's content is expertly formulated by nature, delivering onto the human body its daily dose of the 'perfect ratio' of Omega fatty acids, amongst other essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. This nutritional content has led to its rising popularity in the health and well-being community, fast becoming one of the most sought after oils in the industry. Hemp oil is purported to supply consumers with a natural food supplement that may enhance their wellness both inside and out. 

Hemp seed oil's bioactive compounds and nutritional content mean that it is not uncommon to find it included in everyday supplements and specialist foods to develop and enhance their nutritional properties in the form of yoghurts, snack bars, and baked goods. Individuals often choose to consume the oil raw, either orally as a nutritional food supplement alongside or incorporated within a meal to potentially benefit from its content.

Known to deliver a distinctive (yet not overpowering) nutty flavour to food, hemp seed oil is often seen as a tasty and nutritious replacement for olive oil. Popular uses of hemp seed oil in this way include as a dip, or to drizzle over salads, in smoothies, and other beverages. However, it is worth noting that high heat can cause many of the hemp plant's beneficial compounds to break down, destroying its nutritional content. For this reason, hemp seed oil is a food supplement not considered suitable for cooking or frying in the same way as olive oil.  

By consuming the oil raw, its natural nutrients are maintained, allowing its vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and antioxidants to be absorbed by the body, essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.

Maintain Cardiovascular Health

The content of hemp seed oil is also purported to be valuable when it comes to maintaining cardiovascular health. This stems from its essential fatty acid content, which includes Omega-3, a compound which is widely believed to be beneficial to heart health, supplementing circulation and the body's immune system.

The purported benefits of hemp seed oil for cardiovascular health need further scientific evidence to verify the efficacy of these claims. However, knowing the content of hemp seed oil helps us to understand the potential impact its consumption may have upon such functions.   

Potential Hemp Seed Oil Hair and Skincare Benefits

Hemp products have revolutionised the natural beauty aisles, utilising the hemp plant's botanical properties to provide natural solutions to hair and skincare concerns and maintenance. 

For this reason, hemp seed oil has quickly become the new must-have oil, with consumers curious to experiment with how the hemp plant's potent compounds could potentially benefit their hair and skin.

Hemp Seed Oil's Purportedly Superior Skincare

When it comes to our skin, hemp seed oil's essential fatty acids may act as a humectant. Put simply, it delivers moisture to the skin and then helps to lock it in by forming a seal over the skin, resulting in long-lasting moisturisation. Furthermore, hemp seed oil is also purported to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which some evidence suggests may demonstrate a successful effect in soothing skin.

The science behind these claims is that hemp seed oil contains essential fatty acids, including Omega-3 and Omega-6, have shown anti-inflammatory potential. This makes hemp seed oil highly desirable to those who deal with symptoms often associated with inflammatory skin issues, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema—helping to impact signs of red and inflamed skin whilst delivering nourishment and superior moisturisation. 

When deciding between hemp seed oil and CBD oil, the former is often regarded as the best option when it comes to topical skincare. This is because the topical application does not allow for absorption into the body's bloodstream, and so hemp seed oil (which contains few or no cannabinoids) is able to deliver the skin with nutrients and moisturisation without any wasted effects (unlike in the case of CBD oil, where many potential effects rely on CBD entering the bloodstream).

To incorporate hemp seed oil into your skincare routine, apply hemp seed oil infused topicals liberally, or use the oil itself directly to your skin wherever you think it would be best.

Hemp Seed Oil for Acne

As well as being hailed as a potential anti-inflammatory, hemp seed oil is also believed to act as an anti-acneic (anti-acne). Sebum is the oil our skin naturally produces in the sebaceous glands to give moisture to the skin. However, when sebum is overproduced, it can mix with dead skin cells, which results in blocked pores and follicles, causing acne breakouts.

Hemp seed oil may help modulate the skin's sebum production to help prevent clogged pores whilst providing the skin with superior moisturisation. This amazing multiuse of hemp seed oil makes it suitable for oily, combination, and dry skin.

Hemp Seed Oil and Healthy Hair

As well as skincare, hemp seed oil is also known to do wonders for growing healthy, luscious locks. This is thanks to its rich content of essential fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are believed to help protect against hair loss, promote hair growth, and maintain hair health. 

Hemp seed oil is also purported to help strengthen brittle hair, preventing future damage caused by dry, split ends. This allows hair to grow thicker and more robust for improved hair health. To make the most out of your hemp seed oil, it is advised to run the oil directly through your hair's strands, helping to nourish and add moisture and shine to your hair.

To enhance hemp seed oil's botanical properties, users can combine it with essential oils. Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from plants to capture their "essence" - which refers to plants' scent and flavour. Commonly used in aromatherapy to support holistic health and well-being, these unique aromatic compounds are known to interact with the body in many potentially beneficial ways. 

There are over 90 essential oils, which all have a distinct and unique essence. Here are the most popular essential oils for holistic health and their common associated uses:

• Bergamot: Supports emotional well-being, reducing feelings of stress, and the symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions. 
• Chamomile: Increases feelings of relaxation and may help to improve our mood.
• Frankincense: Possesses potentially soothing and comforting properties help to ease the senses and increase feelings of relaxation.
• Lavender: Lavender's calming properties may help to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety whilst supporting improved sleep.
• Lemon: Helps reduce feelings of nausea, headaches, and possibly aid mood and digestion. Lemon also may also act as an antibacterial to help fight symptoms of acne. 
• Neroli: Nourishes the skin and promotes hair growth, as well as potentially reduces feelings of stress.
• Peppermint: May impact energy and help tired muscles. Peppermint also aids digestion and may have antibacterial qualities to help fight bad breath.
• Rose: Reduces feelings of anxiety and may improve our mood.
• Sandalwood: May calm nerves and improve focus. 
• Tea Tree: Has the potential to fight infections and support the immune system.
• Ylang-Ylang: Relaxing and purportedly helps to alleviate headaches, nausea, and reduce the symptoms of some skin conditions.   

Essential oils by themselves should not be orally ingested, making hemp seed oil an ideal supplement for diluting the oil for consumption. Alternatively, using hemp seed oil as a carrier oil for skincare infused with essential oils allows your skin to benefit from the potential synergistic effects of the natural compounds working together for your skin. 

Essential oils are perfectly aligned with holistic health, delivering natural compounds to support your health and well-being in all areas of life. Furthermore, when inhaled during aromatherapy participation, essential oils help to compliment mindful activities, such as meditation and yoga, by allowing you to bask in nature.

To allow yourself to potentially benefit holistically, it's vital to discover a way of incorporating hemp seed oil into your daily routine that works best for you. To help you consume all the fantastic natural compounds hemp seed oil has to offer, we have formulated our range of high-quality, premium Feel Good Hemp Seed Oil Capsules. These capsules include both premium hemp seed oil and expertly selected vitamins and minerals for optimal results to suit a range of lifestyles. 

Our premium range of Feel Good Hemp Seed Oil Capsules include:

• Wellness Pure Hemp Seed Capsules: Contain essential fatty acids and vitamin D3, helping to invigorate your energy levels. Perfect for those looking to explore the potential of hemp seed oil for the first time.
• Glow Hemp Seed Capsules with Vitamin E & B & C + Zinc: Delivering your skin with radiance all year round. These Omega-rich capsules nourish your skin and revitalise the body.
• Vitality Hemp Seed Capsules with Vitamin B & C: Designed to impact your energy levels, whilst potentially supporting your adrenal health. Our Vitality capsules are perfect for those who are always on the go! 

These capsules are designed to provide you with a stress-free way to seamlessly incorporate essential nutrients into your daily routine aligned with your body's needs, in pursuit of holistic health and well-being.

When shopping for hemp-derived products, it is crucial to be mindful of your source. With an increasing number of hemp products hitting the consumer market to feed the growing demand, concerns are also rising in regard to the increased availability of low-quality hemp seed oil. 

Consumers of low-quality, cheaply manufactured hemp seed oil are at much greater risk of being exposed to these products' inaccurately-reported contents, including THC. This is particularly worrying, as hemp seed oil naturally contains no THC, as this is not a substance found in the hemp plant's seeds. However, this does not change the fact that consumers purchasing low-quality hemp seed oil may be unknowingly subject to THC due to contamination issues. 

This concern is consolidated by a study conducted in 2017, which found some commercial brands of food-grade hemp seeds to contain THC concentrations 1,250% higher than the legal amount. Illuminating the importance for consumers to only purchase hemp seed oil from those who engage in high-quality extraction methods and may provide a Certificate of Analysis.

COA stands for Certificate of Analysis, and is a necessary accompaniment to every hemp-derived product, including hemp seed oil. A COA provides a third-party report on the cannabinoid, terpene, heavy metal, and pesticide content of hemp-derived products. Products that carry a COA help consumers identify trusted sources, demonstrating that a brand is forthcoming about their ingredients. 

At CBII, all our products are third-party lab tested and come with their own COA, confirming the exact compounds present in our high-quality hemp seed oil. As we use pure and gentle patented extraction methods to produce our hemp seed oil, we ensure we deliver you with hemp seed oil, which is transparent, traceable, and truthful alongside the use of high-quality nutrients.

Our ongoing commitment to providing our consumers with safe and effective hemp products through continued research and partnering with experts in the field allows our consumers access to the very best nature has to offer. This provides our consumers with peace of mind in an industry that can too often be a minefield to navigate. 

In 2018, medical cannabis became legal under prescription in the UK, spearheaded by a line of high-profile court cases that campaigned for the use of the hemp plant's potential therapeutic properties to help supplement the treatment of severe cases of epilepsy. This also led to the approved cultivation of the cannabis Sativa plant (of the hemp variety) to produce regulated over-the-counter hemp-derived products, including nutritional food supplements, and topical skin and hair care. 

The hemp plant's legal regulation stipulates that, for products to be legally sold and bought in the UK, they must be produced from approved strains of the hemp plant that contain less than 0.2% THC content.

This results in the production of hemp-derived products with less than 1 mg of THC total, and so have no intoxicating powers, making them safe for consumption. This is made possible by the careful, selective extraction of the hemp plant's many compounds, which allow non-intoxicating products (such as hemp seed oil) to be used by humans to improve their holistic lifestyle. 

The legalisation of over-the-counter hemp-derived products like hemp seed oil has helped to reduce the barriers scientists previously faced, and allowed us to begin to explore the hemp plant's natural compounds. Whilst research into how hemp seed oil interacts with the body, its potential benefits, and long term effects remains in its infancy; the industry now looks forward to emerging preliminary findings.

Currently, anecdotal evidence and long-standing human use and consumption of the oil supports hemp seed oil's use in the pursuit of holistic health, delivering essential nutrients to the body for possibly improved wellbeing.