Hemp Seeds - Frequently Asked Questions

What is so special about hemp food products?

Hemp oil is a rich source of Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) - Omega 6 linoleic, Omega 3 alpha linolenic and Gamma Linolenic acid (GLA) that are important for optimum health in the body. EFAs cannot be produced by the body itself and are vital for the structure and functions of tissues in the body. Essential fatty acids can also be obtained from eating hemp seeds, which are also a rich source (approx. 25%) of high quality protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids. Omega 3, 6 and GLA in hemp oil are present in a biochemically optimal ratio of 2.5:1 respectively. It is the presence of these fatty acids in this particular ratio that helps improve skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.

Hemp oil may also benefit other inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Hemp oil also contains GLA, the active component in Evening Primrose Oil, which may be successful in the treatment of eczema, PMS, menopause and arthritis. Regular adult users report that their skin becomes softer, nails and hair stronger and thicker after only a few weeks of 1-2 tablespoons of oil per day.

How much hemp oil do I need to take to gain health benefits?

Suggested dosages are:
Adults: 1 to 2 tablespoons a day preferably with food.
Small children over 14 months should take 2 - 4 teaspoons a day.
Babies under 14 months: 1 - 2 teaspoons a day with food
Your skin will become soft, smooth and velvety when you reach optimum levels.

Should hemp seed oil be used for frying?

No! At high temperatures unhealthy trans-fatty acids will be formed and the benefit of EFAs will be lost.

Can hemp products help with my allergies?

Hemp foods have been used for centuries to benefit medical conditions ranging from skin disorders to cardiovascular disease. Hemp is great food for anyone on a lactose-free, dairy-free, vegan, low-sugar, low fat, and wheat-free diets.

What are the benefits of hemp seed oil over flax oil?

Shelled hemp seed is more easily digested than ground flax seed, while whole flax seed passes through your body undigested. Hemp seed and hemp oil also contain higher-potency omega derivatives, GLA and SDA, which flax seed lacks. The (3:1) ratio of the Essential Fatty Acids, three parts linoleic acid (Omega 6) to one part alpha-linolenic acid (Omega 3) in hemp seed oil is favorable for the human diet because it matches the nutritional requirements of our bodies. Too much of one will cause a deficiency of the other. Flax oil, despite its higher Omega 3 content, has a less favorable ratio (1:5). Long-term exclusive use of flax oil can lead to a deficiency of Omega 6, producing symptoms like dry skin, papery skin and joint pain.Unlike hemp oil, flax oil does not contain Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), a derivative of Omega 6, and an important triple- unsaturated fatty acid vital for human metabolism. Hemp Oil may be helpful in the treatment of eczema, pre-menstrual tension and arthritis.

What does it taste like?

Hemp oil looks similar to a dark olive oil and has a pleasant mild nutty taste.

What about nut allergies?

Hemp seed is a fruit and not a nut. The anaphylaxis society has no reported cases of hemp seed or hemp seed oil causing reactions to people with nut allergies.

Is hemp seed safe to take for babies?

Yes. Hemp seed and hemp seed oil is safe for babies. You cannot overdose on hemp.

Can hemp oil make you high?

No. Hemp seeds will not make you high. Typically hemp seeds contain less than 0.03% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive substance found in the hemp plant's relative - "marijuana". Our products contain 0% THC due to a recently improved seed cleaning process.

How do you store hemp seed oil?

EFAs can be damaged by exposure to light, heat and air. Our products are produced by cold pressing in a nitrogen flushed and oxygen-free environment. Hemp oil should be stored in the fridge once opened. It can also be frozen for longer periods of storage. It comes in a dark bottle because it keeps better if not exposed to light. Once opened, it is best consumed within 1-3 months. It will keep fresh for over a year if frozen.

How do I use hemp seed oil in cooking?

It is a delicious alternative wherever olive oil is used. Try mixing it in at half-and-half with olive oil to start. It can be used in salad dressings, on pasta, baked potatoes and vegetables, as a dip with balsamic vinegar.

How do I use hemp seed protein powder or seeds in cooking?

Add it to your smoothies, sprinkle it on your salads, bake with it.