The lack of education and awareness regarding hemp continually puts this super plant under the spotlight for many false reasons. However, the tide seems to be turning, and the truth about hemp is gradually surfacing, hear it from Namrata Reddy Sirupa Co-founder, Satliva.
Hemp is a plant that has found itself under endless scrutiny for many years by experts, doctors, researchers, and common folk alike. The constant examination and recurring misconceptions around hemp can be due to its relationship with the psychoactive strain of Cannabis – known as ‘Marijuana.’
For decades now, the lion’s share of our population has believed that hemp has psychoactive properties or “gets you high.” This notion is far from the truth, and has clinically been disproven numerous times. An elementary understanding of hemp will reveal truly how beneficial this plant can be for our health, and the health of our planet. Let’s understand some more of its truth, utility, and benefits!
Hemp Nutrition
Hemp has been a common and traditional source of food for thousands of years. It has been consumed widely in China since 6000 BC, and continues to be a great source of nutrition even today. The latest “Superfoods” trend has only boosted the popularity of hemp seeds, popularly known as “Hemp Hearts.” Hemp seeds are truly versatile, as they are used to make other products such as – Hemp Seed Oil, Cereals, Fibre Supplements, Protein Supplements, and Animal Feed.
Concerning Hemp Seed Oil, it is crucial to know how it is extracted, as this determines its nutritional value. Always ensure to purchase “Cold-Pressed” hemp seed oil for consumption or application. Oil extracted through heat obliterates much of the nutritional value, rendering the final product sub-par and at times even useless.
What makes hemp seeds such a coveted food source?
· Exceptional source of plant-based protein – Every 100 grams of hulled hemp seeds contains 31.56 grams of protein.
· One of the most complete plant protein sources – As they provide all the 10 essential amino acids
· They contain numerous Vitamins & Minerals.
· They are known as nature’s most balanced seeds – As they contain omega 3 and omega 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. What’s remarkable is that these two are present in the ideal ratio of 1:3, one portion of Omega 3 to three portions of Omega 6. This is the most suitable proportion for human health.
Hemp seed oil, the primary ingredient in all the products of Satliva has developed an Exclusive and very Limited range of healthcare, body care, and food with hemp seed oil. Satliva believes in minimal ingredients and maximum benefits, and the formulations help the skin and body heal from within thus keeping it healthy.
Hemp Textile & Plastics
Hemp Fibre, like hemp seeds, dates back to thousands of years. One of the earliest findings of hemp fibre dates back to Catalhoyuk in Turkey, 9000 BC, where they found hemp fibre wrapped around a baby skeleton. It was found once again dating back to 7000 BC in Taiwan, where it was discovered in the form of Hemp Cord. There have been similar findings over the millenia. This beckons the question, “what good is hemp in terms of fibre and plastic in the modern world?”
· It can be used to make bio-plastic – Plastic waste is a big issue as the fossil-based material takes over 400 years to completely decompose. Hemp is now being used to make Hemp Plastic, which is 100% biodegrade and natural.
· It is a sustainable fibre alternative – Growing hemp requires fewer resources compared to standard crops, conserving a massive amount of natural resources. It also contains natural pest resistant properties which help reduce pesticide pollution. Additionally, hemp has phytoremediation properties which essentially means it helps clean the soil and makes it fertile, this further contributes to the sustainable nature of the plant.
Hemp Medicine
The earliest use of hemp in medicine dates back to the Chinese emperor Sheng Nung, in 2727 BC, where it was used to treat diarrhoea, dysentery and stimulate appetite. It was also used in India during the vedic period as mentioned in the Atharvaveda, dating back to around 1800 BC. Hemp contains countless natural medicinal properties, benefiting the mind and body. Let’s take a look at a few of them:
· Hemp for the Skin
Hemp seed oil deeply moisturizes skin and locks in the moisture. This enables it to reduce acute dryness or flaky skin. It also contains potent anti- inflammatory properties, which makes it effective against inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Additionally, hemp seed oil has the ability to diminish the appearance of scars, stretch marks, burns, and signs of ageing.
· Hemp for stiffness and arthritis
Consuming hemp seeds on their own or in the form of hemp seed oil, has proven to soothe arthritic pain, muscle pain, and stiffness. This can be credited to the anti-inflammatory properties present in hemp.
· Hemp for PMS and hormonal imbalances
Studies have revealed that the consumption of hemp can greatly reduce the adverse and vexing symptoms of PMS, and even regulate hormone imbalances in the body.
The need of the hour in this ever-evolving world is sustainability without compromise on the health and well-being of the people. Hemp is unquestionably the solution to various problems such as sky-rocketing carbon rates, immeasurable plastic waste, and low-quality nutrition.
