There is a common misconception that hemp and marijuana (cannabis) are interchangeable, but they’re not. Although both come from the same plant species, cannabis sativa, hemp is a different variety. Unlike cannabis, hemp only contains trace amounts of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the substance that gets you high. Hemp seeds and hemp oil are gaining popularity for their numerous physical and nutritional benefits. Here are seven ways hemp products can improve your well-being.

1. Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Hemp seeds are rich in magnesium, which helps stabilize your heartbeat and may prevent coronary disease. The seeds also contain healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6, which may reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. The seeds also have high levels of the amino acid arginine. This amino acid can also lower the possibility of heart disease.

2. Reduces PMS and Menopause Symptoms

Hemp oil is brimming with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a substance related to reducing PMS symptoms. This acid eases the impact of prolactin, a hormone that causes irritability, breast tenderness, depression, and bloating.

Hemp can also be beneficial for menopause symptoms. It contains high amounts of a substance that address disrupted sleep, irritability, and hot flashes.

3. Relieves Skin Irritation

Hemp’s omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may help relieve the symptoms of eczema. Consuming hemp oil helps balance your blood’s lipids, reducing your skin’s itchiness and dryness. Hemp oil can also effectively treat acne.

4. Boosts Brain Health

Hemp seeds’ omega-3 and omega-6 acids also support brain function. Additionally, hemp seeds contain compounds called terpenes that could protect the brain and impede tumor growth.

Hemp may also be useful for treating Alzheimer’s disease, neuropathic pain, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and childhood seizures.

5. Helps Digestion

Hemp seeds are a notable source of insoluble and soluble fiber. Both are necessary for healthy digestion. Soluble fiber absorbs water, turning it into a gel and slowing digestion, lowering your blood sugar, reducing cholesterol, and helping you feel full. Insoluble fiber bulks up your bowel movements so they’re easier to pass. Adequate amounts of dietary fiber can also reduce your risk for diabetes, colon cancer, and heart disease.

Be aware, though, that most of a hemp seed’s fiber is in its hull. Try buying hemp seeds with intact hulls.

6. Reduces Inflammation

Hemp seeds also contain a substance that decreases inflammation in the body and may reduce your risk of developing heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, arthritis, and nerve damage.

7. Highly Nutritious

Hemp is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains all nine essential acids and more protein per gram than chicken, beef, eggs, or cheese. Its nutrients include Vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus.

The seeds are also packed with an ample 25 percent protein. They can be added to smoothies and cereals, and the oil can be used in baked goods, salad dressings, and bread. Other foods made from hemp oil and hemp seeds include Hemp milk, hemp flour, veggie burgers, granola bars, protein powders, sauces, and beverages like hemp coffee and tea.

Hemp is rapidly gaining popularity as a remedy for many health issues. It can reduce the risk of ailments such as cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also becoming recognized as a dietary superfood. Hemp seeds and oils are easy to incorporate into your life as an effective means of attaining optimal health, nutrition, and overall well-being.