The hemp seed comes from the hemp plant cannabis sativa. This is the same species as marijuana but a different variety and only contains a trace amount of THC. The hemp seed is technically a nut; it has a mild nutty flavor and may be referred to as hemp hearts.
Hemp seeds and the hemp plant have an interesting history; they are considered one of the most ancient cultivated plants.
History
- The Chinese made an early form of paper from the hemp plant.
- Seeds have been found in Viking burial sites from around 800 AD.
- Late medieval German and Italian recipes contain recipes where hemp seeds were used as pie and torte fillings and also boiled in soup.
- Ropes and Sails were made from hemp during the Age of Exploration
- In the Tudor Era, English farmers were required to plant a certain percentage of their land with the hemp plant. The colonists from Jamestown were also required to do this.
- Hemp and cotton were common crops in the southern states, both being used in the manufacture of cloth.
- The anti-hemp campaign occurred around 1937. Companies such as Dupont, who were interested in promoting synthetic textiles, pushed for this legislation.
In recent decades, we have seen changes in the law that allow production of hemp providing its for production of food or for industrial uses.
How healthy are hemp seeds?
Historical accounts suggest hemp seeds were used as a cure for numerous diseases such as sores and skin aliments, coughs, jaundice, and colic. Specific areas that hemp seeds may be of benefit include:
- Heart Health – Hemp seeds contain magnesium which helps regulate your heartbeat and assist in the prevention of coronary heart disease.
- Skin Disorders – Hemp oil can be used topically and has been found to relieve symptoms of eczema and improve dry and itchy skin.
- Brain Health – The ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids is 3 to 1 which is considered optimal. This balance supports both cognitive and heart health.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties – Hemp seeds contain an omega-6 fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which has a similar anti-inflammatory effect to ibuprofen.
The macronutrient content is approximately 30% fat, 25% protein, and 45% fiber. They are a great source of vitamin E and the minerals phosphorous, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, and zinc.
Hemp seeds can be used raw, roasted, or cooked. Like all nuts and seeds, it is best to presoak them before using to eliminate anti-nutrients. Hemp seeds would need a fairly short soak time, 1 to 2 hours.
Who should NOT eat hemp seeds?
Hemps seeds do have a high polyunsaturated fat content and should be eaten in moderation; high fat consumption can cause nausea and diarrhea for some. I do believe it is good to have a balanced portion of quality fat in our diet. Unfortunately we have become a “fat phobic” society to the detriment of our health.
There can be medication interference with anticoagulants as hemp seeds reduce blood clotting, and therefore, could interact with blood-thinning medications.
Digestive challenges can arise from the fiber content such as bloating, nausea, or constipation if eaten in large amounts. Drinking more water when eating hemps seeds can be helpful.
Ways to add hemp seeds to your diet.
Add to smoothies, blend into hummus, sprinkle on salads, oatmeal, or yogurt. They can be added to grains such as brown rice or quinoa or your favorite baked goods.
Adding hemp seeds to your diet in moderation can be beneficial to your health and add variety to your diet. Do you use hemp seeds? What is your favorite way to use them?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Heather
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/hemp-seeds-good-for-you#1
- https://hellomd.com/articles/hemps-history-as-a-source-of-food-fiber-and-now-cbd
- The Seed of Industrial Hemp: Nutritional Quality and Potential Functionality for Human Health and Nutrition https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/7/1935/htm
- 6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-health-benefits-of-hemp-seeds#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2