Scientific: Cannabis sativa [WikiPedia]
Appearance: Hemp is from the Cannabis genus. Its seeds, oil and nuts are amazing dietary and cosmetic substances. China is the largest producer of hemp. There are a wide range of benefits to using hemp products. Hemp seeds, nuts and oil are unlike any other food on earth. Hemp contains the 9 essential amino acids required for good health.
Parts Used: Seed and Leaf.
Common Uses: Hemp has a bad reputation as being an illegal narcotic, which deters many people from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. However, the plant’s Latin name means “useful hemp”, and the seeds are one of the most nutritious substances on earth. Hemp seed contains all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids that our bodies need, which makes it a perfect protein supplement. No other single source provides such a complete protein in a form that is so easily digested and absorbed by the body. Hemp is highly nutritious, and retains the necessary fatty acid proportion required for humans. It is a great dietary supplement in any form. It does not contain whey or lactose, and is a fantastic substitute food for people who have nut allergies. Vegetarians and vegans can supplement their diet with protein rich hemp. Hemp can assist with several medical conditions and has many health benefits. Hemp seed oil helps to remedy several medical conditions including acne, psoriasis, osteoporosis, cancer and multiple sclerosis. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing agent. It balances dry skin, heals skin lesions, and contains anti-oxidants and moisture balancing properties. Hemp seed oil prevents moisture loss on a physiological level. Most oils only coat the top layer of the skin, but hemp oil provides deep moisturisation. The balance of linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid in hemp seed oil can satisfy our needs for these essential fatty acids (EFAs) very well. Both the complete protein and the essential oils contained in hemp seeds are in ideal ratios for human nutrition.
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PLEASE NOTE that herbal and other natural products can harm your animals – not all plants are safe and gentle! Do not attempt using any of the ingredients listed, or any other plant matter, without the guidance of a qualified herbalist.
