Hemp seed comes from the Cannabis sativa plant that's better known for producing marijuana that gets people high when smoked or otherwise ingested. However, hemp seed has no such effect, is entirely legal and is used for its amazing nutrition in a variety of hemp-based foods. Hemp seed can be made into an oil, a "nut" (hulled seed) or flour (ground), and can be used to make breads, deserts, chips, salad dressings and even pastas. These little seeds pack a nutritional power punch, according to Ratical.org, and contain all the amino acids--protein's building blocks--and fatty acids needed for a healthy body, and can also be used in cosmetic and skincare products.
Super Nutrition
If you're looking to add a "superfood" to your diet, look no further than hemp seed, which contains 44 percent oil, 33 percent protein, 12 percent carbohydrates--including dietary fiber--and high amounts of vitamin E. Moreover, according to Drbronner.com, hemp seed contains the highest amounts of the heart-healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the vegetable kingdom--more than flaxseed, for example. This is particularly good news for vegetarians and vegans, who may not get enough of these nutrients from their diet, since these fatty acids are primarily found in fish.
Immune System Booster
The immune system is responsible for producing antibodies to fight disease-causing antigens such as viruses, bacteria and other toxins, and needs a plentiful supply of globulin proteins (immunoglobulin) in order to make these antibodies. Ratical.org cites the fact that hemp seed contains the highest amounts of immunoglobulin building blocks in the plant kingdom. Consuming hemp seed, therefore, will keep your immune system in top shape.
Cosmetics and Skincare
BioMatNet.org reports that hemp seed acts as an ideal stabilizer for skincare products due to its high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids and high-quality proteins. And since hemp seed is also rich in vitamin E, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and moisturizing ingredient in many skincare products. Many major skincare retailers offer hemp seed-based skincare products such as body butters, hand creams and lip balms.
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