Nutritional Grade Hemp Seed Oil

Cold-pressed, unrefined hemp oil is light green and has a nutty grassy flavour. The oil contains fatty acids. Saturated fats and monounsaturated fats are not necessary in our diet as our bodies can make them. But there are two polyunsaturated fatty acids that our body cannot make – linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid. These fatty acids must be included in the diet and are therefore known as 'essential fatty acids'. Both these essential fatty acids are present in hemp oil. Hemp oil provide a safer source of the essential fatty acids than from fish, where the risk of mercury poisoning exists.

Essential fatty acids are essential for the formation of healthy cell membranes, the proper development and functioning of the brain and nervous system. Our body can convert the linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid into longer chain fatty acids which serve as precursors for eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are hormone-like substances which regulate numerous body functions such as blood pressure, blood viscosity, vasoconstriction, immune and inflammatory responses.

Eicosanoids can be produced from both omega 3 fatty acids and from omega 6 fatty acids, with opposing effects ie when made from omega 6 they have the potential to increase blood pressure, inflammation, platelet aggregation, thrombosis, allergic reaction and cell proliferation, whereas when formed from omega 3 they will have the opposite effect. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids compete for enzymes in their desaturation, so excessive consumption of foods rich in omega 6 fatty acids may compromise the conversion of omega 3 fatty acids, with resultant health risks.

Hemp seed oil is nutritious and contains the essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids as well as gamma-linolenic acid. Hemp is the best source of EFAs not only because it has the highest total EFAs of any seed oil (80%) but also because the ratio of EFAs is considered the optimum balance for human health. Omega-3 and Omega-6 in the right proportions lower blood pressure, help organ muscles to contract and regulate stomach acid and body temperature.

When we are deficient in EFAs changes in the cell structure occur that can result in brittle and dull hair, nail problems, dandruff, allergies and dermatitis, and many of the diseases associated with aging from arthritis to liver spots on the skin.

Hemp seed oil can be used as a salad dressing. Because hemp requires little or no pesticide or herbicide application the seed can easily be produced organically, making it a desirable food supplement or addition.

Another product of hemp seed that is gaining popularity is essential hemp oil. Essential hemp oil can be distilled from hemp seed using a steam distillation process. This essential oil is used as flavouring in foods and drinks and as a specialist scent in perfumes and cosmetics. The essential oil has a herbaceous, woody flavour, which is strong, subtle, and piquant all at once.

Hemp seed oil's high EFA content means it is vulnerable to spoilage. It requires cool, dark, oxygen-free storage conditions. An unopened container can be stored in the deep freezer indefinitely, and in the refrigerator for one year; an opened container will last for ten to twelve weeks in the refrigerator; and at room temperature, an unopened container can last four to six weeks. An opened container should be used within one to two weeks.