Hemp Oil as Medicine

Hemp seeds contain 25% high quality protein and 40% polyunsaturated oil. Hemp oil contains 57% linolieic(LA) and 19%Linolenic(LNA) acids, a 3 to 1 ratio, perfect for human needs. These oils are the essential fatty acids, essential for bodily functions, but not made within the body. EFA's act as lipids in the membranes of all body cells. EFA's are required to produce longer chain fats like eicosapentaenoic(EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid(DHA) which occur naturally in cold water fish such as sardines, mackerel, salmon, bluefish, herring, and tuna. Many health food stores supply EPA/DHA supplements in the form of fish oil pills, but fish and fish oil can contain contaminants in them such as mercury. These contaminants can be especially dangerous for young children who need these supplements for brain development. Another alternative is canola oil, but canola oil does not contain complete proportions of EFA's. Flax oil is more complete, but many people have a hard time taking flax because of the strong taste. Hemp oil is superior to all these alternatives because it contains more EFA's than Canola and Flax, and does not have the risk of toxins like in fish. Hemp oil also has a very pleasant taste. It can be used in cooking, salads, and even taken alone without capsules as a supplement. Hemp oil does not contain THC(the psychoactive component in marijuana flowers), and the oil itself is legal in the United States, though it is illegal to grow the plant. The essential Fatty Acids in hemp can be used in the treatment of nutrition blocking diseases and malnourishment. They also help fight cholesterol. EFA's prevent arterial plaque, and are the precursors of prostaglandins, needed for the functions of our immune systems. Hemp seeds are also high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and Vitamin A.