1. Introduction
Hemp hearts, the seed of Cannabis sativa L., have sparked a lot of interest in the scientific, nutritional, and industrial domains because of their high nutritional content and exceptional digestibility. The seed of Cannabis sativa L. is regarded as a significant source of nourishment and is commonly known as hemp. It has not been extensively studied for its nutritional potential in recent years, nor has it been widely used in industrial processes and food markets in the twenty-first century.
Hemp and hemp seed are frequently misunderstood to have psychoactive components. Hemp Hearts’ superfood has been overlooked due to a lack of information and perception of nutritional content, therapeutic effects, and health advantages. This page aims to offer an updated overview of hemp-seed protein and close a knowledge gap in exploiting this new protein’s potential nutritional, pharmacological, and health advantages.
2. Hemp Hearts: What are they?
The Hemp (Cannabis sativa) plant seeds are known as hemp hearts. The hemp plant is technically the same as the cannabis (marijuana) plant. Although sharing the same genus and species as cannabis, Hemp does not have the same effects, but it does have a comparable history. Hemp seeds are a nutrient-dense food. These seeds, which are technically a nut and are part of the hemp plant, can be eaten raw or used to produce milk, oil, cheese alternatives, or protein powder.
Although being linked to the cannabis plant, Hemp seeds contain very little of the hallucinogenic chemical THC found in marijuana. For millennia, the sources have been utilised to cure and prevent many health problems through oral and topical treatments. Many of these assertions are backed up by a growing amount of current clinical research.
Hemp seeds’ nutty flavour and adaptability make them an excellent alternative for meat and dairy products in protein, vital fatty acids, and other nutritional advantages.
Hemp seeds are a great plant-based protein source. They contain all nine necessary amino acids, and studies show that human bodies readily absorb the protein in hemp.
3. Hemp hearts' nutritional values and key benefits
Food provides nutrition in the form of nutrients. Nutrients are the chemical components of food. Nutrients must be supplied in enough levels to the body. They serve distinct roles in our bodies and are needed at varying levels. Macronutrients are nutrients that our bodies require in more significant proportions. They include carbs, protein, fat, and water. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients that our bodies require in lower quantities. The appropriate intake of nutrients in the right proportions aids in the maintenance of a healthy nutritional status.
Nutritionists, dieticians, food scientists, and the food industry support hemp-therapeutic seeds and their health advantages. Many of the medicinal properties and health advantages have been scientifically proven. In contrast, others require more research on culture-specific populations. The following are some of hemp seeds’ therapeutic and health benefits:
3.1 Hemp hearts are GLA-rich
Hemp seeds are a nutrient-dense food that is an excellent source of linolenic acid, often known as GLA, a beneficial fatty acid. Hemp seeds are a nutrient-dense food that provides linolenic acid, often known as GLA, a beneficial fatty acid. Gamma-linolenic Acid (GLA) is a structural component of several prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that assist calm muscles, manage inflammation and regulate body temperature. GLA is also essential for a variety of other bodily activities, including:
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
- Depression
- High cholesterol levels
- Symptoms of menopause
- Metabolic syndrome is a condition that affects the body’s metabolism
- Psoriasis
- Rheumatoid arthritis (A type of arthritis that impacts the joints).
- Asthma
- Atherosclerosis
- Cancer
- Diabetic neuropathy (A condition rendered by diabetes).
- Eczema
3.2 Arthritis and pain in the joints may be scaled back
Cannabinoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in ongoing studies. In conclusion, hemp hearts oil will directly and quickly affect any inflammatory-related health issues, such as arthritic joint pain, rheumatoid joint inflammation, osteoarthritis, and others.
Hemp oil is both healing and nourishing, and it may be used externally and consumed. A lot of research is being done to figure out precisely how these components in hemp oil assist in reducing inflammation and relieving pain, mainly because hemp oil appears to work even when other drugs don’t.
The nutritious benefits of hemp seeds, when combined with the use of hemp oil, can assist arthritis patients achieve relief sooner. To put it another way, you receive nutrients from hemp seeds and pain alleviation from hemp oil when you apply it externally.
3.3 Hemp Hearts can help you lose weight
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein, necessary for muscle building and overall health. A cup of hemp seeds provides more than 25% high-quality protein, promoting the healthy muscular formation and quick recovery after a workout at the gym. It also reduces muscle breakdown and encourages muscle synthesis, both of which aid in weight reduction.
Hemp seeds are also high in healthful fats. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. Furthermore, these essential fats have a crucial role in brain function and hormone manufacturing, which means you can successfully reduce blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity. The healthy fats in hemp seeds aid in weight loss by reducing the formation of fat cells in your body. Hemp seed is a natural weight reduction product that can help you drop extra pounds while keeping your metabolism robust.
3.4 Digestive wellness is improved with hemp hearts
The foundation of maximizing your health is intestinal health. Nothing will work effectively until the stomach is healthy. A healthy gut indicates that your body receives and uses all nutrients and minerals to the greatest extent possible. You will feel fantastic both emotionally and physically due to this treatment.
Hemp seeds, high in prebiotic, insoluble, and soluble fibre, can help feed the bacteria in your gut and support a healthy immune system. Hemp’s soluble fibre promotes the growth of beneficial gut flora. It can aid in the regulation of cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The insoluble fibre aids your body’s digestion of trash.
Hemp seeds are also high in prebiotic fibre, contributing to their potency. Prebiotic fibre can help the body absorb more calcium and magnesium. A healthy stomach assists your body in being considerably more effective at absorbing the source of nutrients that are supplied to it.
3.5 Hair, skin, and nail have beneficial compounds from hemp hearts
When applied directly to the hair and scalp, hemp seed oil, like other oils, may offer preventive properties. We’ve known that oil can keep too much water or other things from penetrating the hair shaft for a long time. The more porous your hair is due to chemical damage or over-styling, the more susceptible it is to water wear. Water might be a lock’s worst enemy since damp trees expand and become more prone to breaking. Oil also aids in hair damage management by hydrating the shaft and lowering brushing force on wet strands.
Hemp seeds contain more than 30 per cent fat and are notably high in alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acids) and linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acids). These oils are frequently used in cosmetics because they may penetrate skin layers and encourage cell proliferation.
In essence, the seeds can aid in the healing and moisturization of dry and damaged skin and the maintenance of healthy hair and nails. Hemp-based beauty products, unlike other cosmetics, enable the skin to breathe without obstructing the pores.
4. Hemp hearts may be used in a variety of ways
a. As a Roasted Treat –
Hemp hearts, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, may be eaten raw, but roasting them adds richness to their flavour. Cook them in your preferred oil on the stovetop or in the oven for a hands-off method. Then, use them to top salads, vegetables, or cereal combinations.
b. Hulled Hemp Seed Spread –
Seed cream is a terrific allergy-friendly alternative to nut kinds of butter, and it’s just as simple to prepare at home (and flavour in infinite ways). Use it as a berry dipping, a nacho dip with marmalade or honey, or eat it directly off the teaspoon.
c. In Pastries –
Hemp seeds pair beautifully with oatmeal, not just in your breakfast bowl. Still, you can also use them to make fantastic chocolate pastries. Start your day on a high note by including hemp hearts into your baking to increase the protein content of cupcakes or snack foods.
d. To Make Dairy –
You probably already know that hemp hearts are a highly versatile meal. Still, you might be surprised to learn that they can also be used as a basis for producing your cheese. Combining hemp hearts with nutritional yeast will result in a flavorful sauce for pasta, pizza, and other dishes.
e. To Create Hemp Milk –
Making your milk may sound complex, but after you do it, you’ll discover it’s a lot easier than you think! Blend the hemp hearts with water and some vanilla essence, and you’re done! You’ve prepared dairy-free milk in less time than it takes to get to the grocery store.
f. Salads –
Hemp seeds may be strictly what you’re searching for in salads. Take a handful and toss them on your favourite vegetables for a plant-based source of nutrition with a nutty taste that will enhance the remainder of your dish.
5. Conclusion
Overall, hemp seeds have a rich nutrition profile including high levels of fatty acids, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. While there are potential health benefits to consuming hemp seeds, excessive intake of these seeds should be avoided.
