Five Surprising Benefits of Hemp That You Might Not Know About
While you may be aware that the cannabinoids in hemp can help to ease symptoms like stress and anxiety, you might not know of the following five benefits of hemp. But before we look at those surprising benefits, let’s explore the different cannabinoids that are found in hemp.
In recent years, hemp has gained significant attention for its potential benefits across various industries. While many people associate hemp with its relation to cannabis, it’s important to note that hemp and marijuana are distinct varieties of the cannabis plant, with hemp containing only trace amounts of the psychoactive compound THC. Beyond its traditional uses, hemp offers a range of surprising benefits that you might not be aware of. In this article, we’ll explore five remarkable advantages of hemp that make it a versatile and valuable resource.
Hemp is Used to Produce HHC, Delta-8, and Other Cannabinoids
The key difference between hemp and marijuana is the psychoactive component tetrahydrocannabinol, which is more commonly known as THC. Hemp contains 0.3% or less THC, which means hemp-derived products don’t have enough THC in them to create the high effect that is traditionally associated with marijuana.
In addition to THC, hemp contains CBD, HHC, and Delta 8 THC.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient in cannabis that is derived from the hemp plant.
HHC
HHC, or hexa hydrocannabinol, is a relatively new compound to be found in hemp. While the natural cannabinoid mimics the effects of THC, it has much fewer psychoactive properties.
That means HHC can provide potential therapeutic benefits without causing the high effect that is associated with marijuana use.
Delta 8
Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that is chemically different from Delta-9 THC, which is the psychoactive component found in marijuana.
Although Delta-8 has milder effects than its cousin, it offers potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety and pain relief. Again, this makes it an attractive option for people who are seeking the medicinal properties of hemp without the intense high associated with traditional marijuana consumption.
The legality of Delta-8 in the UK is very unclear as it is not categorised as either a controlled substance or an exempt product by the government.
That means, at present, people in the UK can purchase some Delta 8 products legally from domestic platforms. But you should keep an eye on changing laws to ensure you stay up to date with the legal status of Delta-8 and other cannabinoid products.
In the US, both Delta-8 and HHC products are legal at the federal level, under the 2018 Farm Bill, as both are hemp-derived products that contain less than 0.3% THC. However, some states still regulate them as controlled substances.
If you live somewhere where you can legally take Delta 8 or HHC products, by comparing HHC and Delta 8 cannabinoids before you try, you can ensure you find the right type of cannabinoid product for you.
Now, let us look at some of the surprising benefits of hemp that you might not know about.
1. Nutrition
Did you know hemp seeds are incredibly nutritious? Packed with essential fatty acids, like omega-3, and high-quality proteins, they make an excellent addition to your daily diet. They contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source.
2. Skin Health
Have you ever considered hemp oil for skincare? Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E, it can help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe irritated skin and may even alleviate conditions such as acne or eczema.
3. Cardiovascular Health
For those looking to improve their heart health, incorporating more hemp into daily meals might be a game changer. The omega-3s and plant sterols present in hemp seeds have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular wellness. Just make sure you regularly exercise, too.
4. Natural Pain Relief
Hemp can play a role in pain management too. Its natural compounds, such as CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to alleviate inflammation and pain.
5. Eco-Friendly Material
Hemp is not just good for your body. It is also good for the environment! With uses ranging from paper to clothing materials and even building supplies, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to traditional resources. For example, hemp-based textiles require fewer chemicals and water than cotton during production.
Conclusion
Hemp’s potential reaches far beyond its conventional uses, encompassing sustainable textiles, nutrient-rich superfoods, eco-friendly building materials, health and wellness applications, and soil remediation. As awareness grows regarding the environmental impact of our choices, hemp’s versatility and sustainable nature position it as a vital resource for a more eco-conscious future. Whether you’re interested in fashion, nutrition, construction, or holistic health, exploring the benefits of hemp can lead to exciting and unexpected opportunities. Embracing hemp could be a significant step towards a more sustainable and interconnected world.