The Endocannabinoid System
The Cannabis plant contains over 120 cannabinoids, which are carbon-containing terpenophenolic compounds concentrated in the viscous resin of the glandular trichomes on the cannabis plant bud. There are psychoactive cannabinoids, such as Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), while others, such as cannabidiol (CBD), have no psychoactive effects while offering profound healing properties.
The human body responds to the cannabis plant because its also has its own natural cannabinoids – called endocannabinoids – which help establish and maintain human health.
The endogenous cannabinoid system, named after the plant that led to its discovery, is perhaps the most important physiologic system involved in establishing and maintaining human health. Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. In each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment.
Endocannabinoids and cannabinoids are also found at the intersection of the body’s various systems, allowing communication and coordination between different cell types. At the site of an injury, for example, cannabinoids can be found decreasing the release of activators and sensitizers from the injured tissue, stabilizing the nerve cell to prevent excessive firing, and calming nearby immune cells to prevent release of pro-inflammatory substances. Three different mechanisms of action on three different cell types for a single purpose: minimize the pain and damage caused by the injury.
cannabinoids
After the discovery of the body’s natural cannabinoids, researchers and scientists have started putting more time into exploring the effect that cannabinoids from the cannabis plant have on the treatment of human ailments. The following are 6 best-known cannabinoids and how they are believed to affect the human body:
Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol – THC
THC is the most well-known cannabinoid and the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis. THC has been used in the treatment of chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting. It is also used to stimulate the appetite and increase food intake in AIDS and cancer patients. THC has also been tested on brain cancer cells and has been found to inhibit the growth of brain tumors. Furthermore, THC has shown pain-reducing, anti-tremor and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cannabidiol – CBD
CBDs hold the most promise for the use of cannabis in the treatment of serious medical conditions. CBDs have been tested in the treatment of cancer cells and are found to significantly inhibit cancer cell growth. They also assist in the uptake of other cancer drugs, increasing their effectiveness. Other research has also identified CBD to have anti-inflammatory and pain reducing properties, and others believe CBD has anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic and neuro-protective properties. CBDs are also known to alleviate some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
Cannabinol – CBN
CBN is a mildy-psychoactive cannabinoid known as the sleep-inducing part of the cannabis plant. It increases the drowsy and dizzy effects of THC. High-CBN strains are being used as sedatives and sleep-aids for those suffering from insomnia. Some studies have been exploring the potential use of CBNs in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Cannabichromene – CBC
CBCs are being evaluated for their anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Research has shown that CBC’s anti-inflammatory activity is superior to those of anti-inflammatory drugs. CBCs have also been identified to have a significant anti-depressant effect, contributing to the overall mood-elevating properties of cannabis. Finally, CBCs may also increase the viability of developing brain cells, a process called neurogenesis. Lack of growth in the hippocampus part of the brain during old age is believed to contribute to disorders such as Alzheimer’s and depression.
Cannabigerol – CBG
CBG has been somewhat understudied but research has shown that CBGs have a profound effect on the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Thus they work with other cannabinoids to provide overall synergy and balance. CBGs have been found to have an anti-nausea and anti-vomiting effect, as well as reduce pain and ease inflammation. CBGs are also known to increase the fluid drainage from the eye and reduce the amount of pressure when treating glaucoma.
(Industrial hemp strains have been found to have the highest levels of CBG when compared to other cannabis sativa strains.)
Tetrahydrocannabivarin – THCV
THCV can be most commonly found in the cannabis varieties indigenous to central Africa. THCV is being researched as a treatment for metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Research has shown that THCV helps produce fat loss and results in an increased sensitivity response to insulin.
Mounting research continues to establish a strong case for the miraculous healing capabilities of cannabinoids. Our support of cannabis plant cultivation and continued scientific research will lead to more availability of various cannabis strains specifically designed to have high doses of certain cannabinoids and thus serve as safe medication for horrific ailments.
The use of medical marijuana and cannabis-derived medicines in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, insomnia, depression, etc., will continue to grow. Cannabis may yet become one of the most useful natural remedies to some of the most crippling diseases of mankind.
Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol – THC
THC is the most well-known cannabinoid and the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis. THC has been used in the treatment of chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting. It is also used to stimulate the appetite and increase food intake in AIDS and cancer patients. THC has also been tested on brain cancer cells and has been found to inhibit the growth of brain tumors. Furthermore, THC has shown pain-reducing, anti-tremor and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cannabidiol – CBD
CBDs hold the most promise for the use of cannabis in the treatment of serious medical conditions. CBDs have been tested in the treatment of cancer cells and are found to significantly inhibit cancer cell growth. They also assist in the uptake of other cancer drugs, increasing their effectiveness. Other research has also identified CBD to have anti-inflammatory and pain reducing properties, and others believe CBD has anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic and neuro-protective properties. CBDs are also known to alleviate some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
Cannabinol – CBN
CBN is a mildy-psychoactive cannabinoid known as the sleep-inducing part of the cannabis plant. It increases the drowsy and dizzy effects of THC. High-CBN strains are being used as sedatives and sleep-aids for those suffering from insomnia. Some studies have been exploring the potential use of CBNs in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Cannabichromene – CBC
CBCs are being evaluated for their anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Research has shown that CBC’s anti-inflammatory activity is superior to those of anti-inflammatory drugs. CBCs have also been identified to have a significant anti-depressant effect, contributing to the overall mood-elevating properties of cannabis. Finally, CBCs may also increase the viability of developing brain cells, a process called neurogenesis. Lack of growth in the hippocampus part of the brain during old age is believed to contribute to disorders such as Alzheimer’s and depression.
Cannabigerol – CBG
CBG has been somewhat understudied but research has shown that CBGs have a profound effect on the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Thus they work with other cannabinoids to provide overall synergy and balance. CBGs have been found to have an anti-nausea and anti-vomiting effect, as well as reduce pain and ease inflammation. CBGs are also known to increase the fluid drainage from the eye and reduce the amount of pressure when treating glaucoma.
(Industrial hemp strains have been found to have the highest levels of CBG when compared to other cannabis sativa strains.)
Tetrahydrocannabivarin – THCV
THCV can be most commonly found in the cannabis varieties indigenous to central Africa. THCV is being researched as a treatment for metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Research has shown that THCV helps produce fat loss and results in an increased sensitivity response to insulin.
Mounting research continues to establish a strong case for the miraculous healing capabilities of cannabinoids. Our support of cannabis plant cultivation and continued scientific research will lead to more availability of various cannabis strains specifically designed to have high doses of certain cannabinoids and thus serve as safe medication for horrific ailments.
The use of medical marijuana and cannabis-derived medicines in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, insomnia, depression, etc., will continue to grow. Cannabis may yet become one of the most useful natural remedies to some of the most crippling diseases of mankind.
Terpenes
Most animal studies with cannabidiol utilize synthetic, single-molecule CBD produced by biochemical laboratories for research purposes. In contrast, whole plant extractions typically include CBD, THC, and more than 400 trace compounds. Many of these compounds interact synergistically to create what scientists refer to as an “entourage effect” that magnifies the therapeutic benefits of the plant’s individual components—so that the medicinal impact of the whole plant is greater than the sum of its parts.
It is important to consider the entourage effect (or lack thereof) when extrapolating data based on animal studies:
100 milligrams of synthetic single-molecule CBD is not equivalent to 100 milligrams of a CBD-rich whole plant cannabis extract.
“Cannabis is inherently polypharmaceutical,” Dr. John McPartland notes, “and synergy arises from interactions between its multiple components.”
TerpenesConsider the role of terpenes, for example. Terpenes are volatile aromatic molecules that evaporate easily and readily announce themselves to the nose. Various researchers have emphasized the pharmacological importance of terpenes, or terpenoids, which form the basis of aromatherapy, a popular holistic healing modality. Marijuana’s compelling fragrance and particular psychoactive flavor are determined by the predominate terpenes in a strain.
Around 200 terpenes have been found in cannabis, but only a few of these odiferous oily substances appear in amounts substantial enough to be noteworthy, or nose worthy, as it were. Among them are monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes, which are characterized by the number of repeating units of a 5-carbon molecule called isoprene, the structural hallmark of all terpenoid compounds. The terpenes in marijuana have given the plant an enduring, evolutionary advantage. Pungent terpenoid oils repel insects and animal grazers; others prevent fungus.
Terpenes, it turns out, are healthy for people as well as plants.
"A September 2011 report by Dr. Ethan Russo in the British Journal of Pharmacology discussed the wide-ranging therapeutic attributes of terpenoids, which are typically lacking in “CBD-only” products."
Beta-caryophyllene, for example, is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oil of black pepper, oregano, and other edible herbs, as well as in various cannabis strains and in many green, leafy vegetables. It is gastro-protective, good for treating certain ulcers, and offers great promise as a therapeutic compound for inflammatory conditions and auto-immune disorders because it binds directly to the peripheral cannabinoid receptor known as “CB2.”
In 2008, the Swiss scientist Jürg Gertsch documented beta-caryophyllene’s binding affinity for the CB2 receptor and described it as “a dietary cannabinoid.” It is the only terpenoid known to directly activate a cannabinoid receptor. And it’s one of the reasons why green, leafy vegetables are so healthy to eat.
Terpenoids and cannabinoids both increase blood flow, enhance cortical activity, and kill respiratory pathogens, including MRSA, the antibiotic-resistant bacteria that in recent years has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. Dr. Russo’s article reports that cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions
“could produce synergy with respect to treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections.”
Marijuana’s bouquet of terpenes—that “riot of perfumes,” as the poet (and hashish-eater) Arthur Rimbaud once said—plays another important role. Terpenes and CBD buffer THC’s tricky psychoactivity. Cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions amplify the beneficial effects of cannabis while mitigating THC-induced anxiety.
The terpenoid profile can vary considerably from strain to strain. Patients who abandon a suitable strain for one with higher THC and/or CBD content may not get more relief if the terpenoid profile is significantly different.
It is important to consider the entourage effect (or lack thereof) when extrapolating data based on animal studies:
100 milligrams of synthetic single-molecule CBD is not equivalent to 100 milligrams of a CBD-rich whole plant cannabis extract.
“Cannabis is inherently polypharmaceutical,” Dr. John McPartland notes, “and synergy arises from interactions between its multiple components.”
TerpenesConsider the role of terpenes, for example. Terpenes are volatile aromatic molecules that evaporate easily and readily announce themselves to the nose. Various researchers have emphasized the pharmacological importance of terpenes, or terpenoids, which form the basis of aromatherapy, a popular holistic healing modality. Marijuana’s compelling fragrance and particular psychoactive flavor are determined by the predominate terpenes in a strain.
Around 200 terpenes have been found in cannabis, but only a few of these odiferous oily substances appear in amounts substantial enough to be noteworthy, or nose worthy, as it were. Among them are monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes, which are characterized by the number of repeating units of a 5-carbon molecule called isoprene, the structural hallmark of all terpenoid compounds. The terpenes in marijuana have given the plant an enduring, evolutionary advantage. Pungent terpenoid oils repel insects and animal grazers; others prevent fungus.
Terpenes, it turns out, are healthy for people as well as plants.
"A September 2011 report by Dr. Ethan Russo in the British Journal of Pharmacology discussed the wide-ranging therapeutic attributes of terpenoids, which are typically lacking in “CBD-only” products."
Beta-caryophyllene, for example, is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oil of black pepper, oregano, and other edible herbs, as well as in various cannabis strains and in many green, leafy vegetables. It is gastro-protective, good for treating certain ulcers, and offers great promise as a therapeutic compound for inflammatory conditions and auto-immune disorders because it binds directly to the peripheral cannabinoid receptor known as “CB2.”
In 2008, the Swiss scientist Jürg Gertsch documented beta-caryophyllene’s binding affinity for the CB2 receptor and described it as “a dietary cannabinoid.” It is the only terpenoid known to directly activate a cannabinoid receptor. And it’s one of the reasons why green, leafy vegetables are so healthy to eat.
Terpenoids and cannabinoids both increase blood flow, enhance cortical activity, and kill respiratory pathogens, including MRSA, the antibiotic-resistant bacteria that in recent years has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. Dr. Russo’s article reports that cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions
“could produce synergy with respect to treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections.”
Marijuana’s bouquet of terpenes—that “riot of perfumes,” as the poet (and hashish-eater) Arthur Rimbaud once said—plays another important role. Terpenes and CBD buffer THC’s tricky psychoactivity. Cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions amplify the beneficial effects of cannabis while mitigating THC-induced anxiety.
The terpenoid profile can vary considerably from strain to strain. Patients who abandon a suitable strain for one with higher THC and/or CBD content may not get more relief if the terpenoid profile is significantly different.
What is GLA?
Like omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fats are essential, which means your body cannot make them and they must come from food. Gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA, refers to the omega-6 fatty acids found in plant foods. Very few foods you normally eat contain GLA, according to NYU Langone Medical Center, but you may be able to up your intake by including hemp oil, spirulina or borage oil. Consult your doctor before supplementing your diet with these foods.
GLA Versus LA
Most of your omega-6 fatty acids come from vegetable oils in the form or linoleic acid, or LA. Your body converts the LA in the vegetable oils to GLA in your body, which is then converted into arachidonic acid, or AA. There is concern that high intakes of omega-6 fatty acids in the form or LA and AA increase inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
"However, getting your omega-6s from foods rich in GLA may reduce inflammation."
Hemp Oil-
Compared to other oils such as olive or safflower oil, hemp oil contains the highest amount of GLA. Two to 4 percent of the unsaturated fats in hemp oil come from its GLA content.
Because of the high amounts of unsaturated fats found in hemp oil, it should not be used as a cooking oil, but you can add it to salad or drizzle it over grains or cooked veggies for flavor.
GLA Versus LA
Most of your omega-6 fatty acids come from vegetable oils in the form or linoleic acid, or LA. Your body converts the LA in the vegetable oils to GLA in your body, which is then converted into arachidonic acid, or AA. There is concern that high intakes of omega-6 fatty acids in the form or LA and AA increase inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
"However, getting your omega-6s from foods rich in GLA may reduce inflammation."
Hemp Oil-
Compared to other oils such as olive or safflower oil, hemp oil contains the highest amount of GLA. Two to 4 percent of the unsaturated fats in hemp oil come from its GLA content.
Because of the high amounts of unsaturated fats found in hemp oil, it should not be used as a cooking oil, but you can add it to salad or drizzle it over grains or cooked veggies for flavor.
The Vitamins in Hemp Seed
Hemp seeds don't contain a great deal of vitamins per serving, partly because a serving is small. In fact, you would have to eat about a pound of hemp seeds in order to get your Recommended Daily Allowance of any of the vitamins they contains. What's more, the heat process used to sterilize hemp seeds before sale diminishes their vitamin content. Nonetheless, the vitamin content in hemp seeds, even sterilized, is comparable to that of other whole grains.
Whole vs. Shelled Hemp Seeds
Some of the vitamin content in hemp seeds is located in the shell, which means that shelled or hulled hemp seeds, also known as hemp seed nuts or hemp hearts, contain a different concentration, usually less, of those vitamins. For example, according to a comparison of nutrition facts provided by Hemp Traders, the hull of the hemp seed contains about .4 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams while the nut contains 1 mg per 100 grams.
Vitamin A
A potent antioxidant also known as retinol, vitamin A is important for strong vision and aids in the growth of soft and skeletal tissue such as the skin, mucous membranes and teeth. Whole hemp seed contains about 37.5 IU per gram of vitamin A while the hemp nut contains only about 4 IU per 100 grams.
Vitamin B
According to the European Industrial Hemp Association, 100 grams of shelled hemp seeds contain 90 percent of the recommended daily value (DV) of vitamin B1, or thiamine, and B5, or pantothenic acid, as well as 30 percent of the DV of B3, or niacin.
Vitamin D
You get most of your vitamin D from sunlight and dairy products, but hemp seeds do contain a small portion of it as well: approximately 10 IU or less per 100 grams of whole seeds. Some hemp nuts have been fortified with vitamin D, such as those from Hemp Traders, which contain 2,277.5 IU per 100 grams. Vitamin D is important in building bones, strengthening the immune system and reducing the risk of certain diseases, like cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Vitamin E
Hemp seed has some vitamin E, with 100 grams containing 20 percent of the DV. In a 2008 "Critical Review of Clinical Laboratory Science" report, the authors described vitamin E's antioxidant properties and its subsequent benefits in preventing heart disease. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin E also functions as an anti-inflammatory and immune system enhancer and may help protect against cancer, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.
Whole vs. Shelled Hemp Seeds
Some of the vitamin content in hemp seeds is located in the shell, which means that shelled or hulled hemp seeds, also known as hemp seed nuts or hemp hearts, contain a different concentration, usually less, of those vitamins. For example, according to a comparison of nutrition facts provided by Hemp Traders, the hull of the hemp seed contains about .4 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams while the nut contains 1 mg per 100 grams.
Vitamin A
A potent antioxidant also known as retinol, vitamin A is important for strong vision and aids in the growth of soft and skeletal tissue such as the skin, mucous membranes and teeth. Whole hemp seed contains about 37.5 IU per gram of vitamin A while the hemp nut contains only about 4 IU per 100 grams.
Vitamin B
According to the European Industrial Hemp Association, 100 grams of shelled hemp seeds contain 90 percent of the recommended daily value (DV) of vitamin B1, or thiamine, and B5, or pantothenic acid, as well as 30 percent of the DV of B3, or niacin.
Vitamin D
You get most of your vitamin D from sunlight and dairy products, but hemp seeds do contain a small portion of it as well: approximately 10 IU or less per 100 grams of whole seeds. Some hemp nuts have been fortified with vitamin D, such as those from Hemp Traders, which contain 2,277.5 IU per 100 grams. Vitamin D is important in building bones, strengthening the immune system and reducing the risk of certain diseases, like cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.
Vitamin E
Hemp seed has some vitamin E, with 100 grams containing 20 percent of the DV. In a 2008 "Critical Review of Clinical Laboratory Science" report, the authors described vitamin E's antioxidant properties and its subsequent benefits in preventing heart disease. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin E also functions as an anti-inflammatory and immune system enhancer and may help protect against cancer, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.
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What Herbs, Teas, & Beverages Can Cause a False Positive UA Test?(Because you will be asked!)
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Urinalysis, or UA, tests are typically conducted to screen for illness as well as to check for illegal drugs in your system. Many employers regularly use urinalysis tests to ensure that their employees are clean and sober, which can make the workplace more safe and productive. Some herbs and beverages can cause a false positive in these drug tests because the herbs or ingredients in the beverages are chemically similar to illegal drugs.
Hemp
Foods that contain hemp are a healthy part of many people's diet. Hemp oil in particular is a healthy oil because it has the highest proportion of essential fatty acids of any oil. Avoid drinking teas that contain hemp or using hemp oil before you take a urine test for drugs. Hemp is made from the marijuana plant, and while hemp products aren't illegal, they can cause you to have a false positive for THC in your urine because they contain low levels of THC.
Poppy Seeds
Many cuisines, such as Indian foods, contain poppy seeds as a seasoning. You are probably familiar with poppy seed muffins, breads and pastries or teas that contain poppy seeds. Consuming foods or teas that contain poppy seeds can cause you to have a false positive test for opiates or codeine. As a result, Amitava Dasgupta, author of "A Health Educator's Guide to Understanding Drugs of Abuse Testing," advises avoiding foods and beverages that contain poppy seeds for at least a week before testing.
Coca
Some teas and herbal medicines from overseas may contain coca or trace amounts of cocaine. The amounts may not be enough to have an intoxicating effect, but they can show up on a drug test. Selling products that contain coca is illegal in the United States, but it occasionally shows up in teas and medicines from South America and China. Avoid consuming herbal teas or remedies, especially teas or remedies from overseas, for a week or two before you take a drug test.
Other Precautions
In addition to products containing hemp, poppy seeds or coca, avoid drinking caffeine, soda and over-the-counter cold or flu medications for at least a week before you take a drug test. All of these ingredients may cause problems such as false positives on your drug test. If you are ill, see a physician and get a prescription for your condition rather than treat yourself with an over-the-counter medicines. This way you have documentation of the medicines that you are taking in case your drug test turns out positive.
Foods that contain hemp are a healthy part of many people's diet. Hemp oil in particular is a healthy oil because it has the highest proportion of essential fatty acids of any oil. Avoid drinking teas that contain hemp or using hemp oil before you take a urine test for drugs. Hemp is made from the marijuana plant, and while hemp products aren't illegal, they can cause you to have a false positive for THC in your urine because they contain low levels of THC.
Poppy Seeds
Many cuisines, such as Indian foods, contain poppy seeds as a seasoning. You are probably familiar with poppy seed muffins, breads and pastries or teas that contain poppy seeds. Consuming foods or teas that contain poppy seeds can cause you to have a false positive test for opiates or codeine. As a result, Amitava Dasgupta, author of "A Health Educator's Guide to Understanding Drugs of Abuse Testing," advises avoiding foods and beverages that contain poppy seeds for at least a week before testing.
Coca
Some teas and herbal medicines from overseas may contain coca or trace amounts of cocaine. The amounts may not be enough to have an intoxicating effect, but they can show up on a drug test. Selling products that contain coca is illegal in the United States, but it occasionally shows up in teas and medicines from South America and China. Avoid consuming herbal teas or remedies, especially teas or remedies from overseas, for a week or two before you take a drug test.
Other Precautions
In addition to products containing hemp, poppy seeds or coca, avoid drinking caffeine, soda and over-the-counter cold or flu medications for at least a week before you take a drug test. All of these ingredients may cause problems such as false positives on your drug test. If you are ill, see a physician and get a prescription for your condition rather than treat yourself with an over-the-counter medicines. This way you have documentation of the medicines that you are taking in case your drug test turns out positive.
How to Apply Hempseed Oil to Hair
According to Dr. Andrew Weil, hempseeds can be used to make oil, milk or protein powder, all of which contain a healthy dose of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids. In "Beauty by Nature" by Brigitte Mars, the author notes that hempseed oil in shampoo can relieve dry, itchy scalp and add shine to hair. Some specialty shampoos and conditioners available online contain hempseed oil, but you can make your own chemical-free oil-infused hair products or apply hemp seed oil topically.
Make Hempseed Oil Shampoo
Step 1
Mix ½ cup each of water and liquid soap in a mixing bowl.
Step 2
Add ½ tsp. hempseed oil.
Hempseed oil’s superior moisturizing qualities make it a good choice for dry, brittle hair.
Step 3
Stir all ingredients with a wooden spoon and pour the mixture into an empty shampoo bottle.
Step 4
Use a HoH Mask as needed (see how to below!)
Make a Hempseed Oil Hair Mask
Step 1
Mix 3 tbsp. milk, a banana, an avocado, 3 tbsp. honey, 3 tbsp. rosemary, an egg white and 5 tbsp. hempseed oil in a blender. The ingredients in the recipe come from stylist Powell, who uses pomegranate and camellia oil in place of hempseed oil. Feel free to try the recipe with these oils later, once the hempseed oil has restored your hair’s shine and bounce. The rosemary, Powell says, will help rejuvenate hair follicles.
Step 2
Apply to hair thick and evenly. Set timer for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and style!
Make Hempseed Oil Shampoo
Step 1
Mix ½ cup each of water and liquid soap in a mixing bowl.
Step 2
Add ½ tsp. hempseed oil.
Hempseed oil’s superior moisturizing qualities make it a good choice for dry, brittle hair.
Step 3
Stir all ingredients with a wooden spoon and pour the mixture into an empty shampoo bottle.
Step 4
Use a HoH Mask as needed (see how to below!)
Make a Hempseed Oil Hair Mask
Step 1
Mix 3 tbsp. milk, a banana, an avocado, 3 tbsp. honey, 3 tbsp. rosemary, an egg white and 5 tbsp. hempseed oil in a blender. The ingredients in the recipe come from stylist Powell, who uses pomegranate and camellia oil in place of hempseed oil. Feel free to try the recipe with these oils later, once the hempseed oil has restored your hair’s shine and bounce. The rosemary, Powell says, will help rejuvenate hair follicles.
Step 2
Apply to hair thick and evenly. Set timer for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and style!
Hemp oil beauty tricks
Why Hemp
Hemp oil contains unsurpassed essential fatty acids (EFAs). As we are increasingly learning, there are good fats and there are bad fats. What makes a good fat good has much to do with these EFAs, specifically omega-3 and omega-6, which are present in hemp oil in the perfect ratio of 1:3. Plus, hemp oil contains the anti-inflammatory gamma linoleic acid (GLA) as well as omega-9. Its fatty acid profile is better than fish oil’s, better than flaxseed oil’s—it is the best. Among many benefits, these EFAs provide for more elastic skin and shiny, stronger hair.
Hemp oil contains a power-packed punch of additional nutrients, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5, vitamin B9 (folate), and vitamin D (of which it is the only plant source), along with a useful dose of the antioxidant vitamin E (tocopherols) as well as all 10 amino acids for protein building. Add to that list chlorophyll (that’s why it’s green), phytosterols, phospholipids, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, and a bit of iron and zinc.
Hemp oil is extremely non-comodogenic. In other words, it doesn’t clog pores. And because its lipids mirror the lipids that our skin produces naturally, it works in sync with our body to soothe and cleanse. Healthy skin produces linoleic acid. If, for whatever reason, the skin can’t produce linoleic acid, it alternatively produces oleic acid, a thick and sticky pore blocker. Hemp oil contains the good linoleic acid.
Hemp oil is also a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin. Instead of sitting on top of the skin the way less-effective oils do, it’s able to penetrate the skin, moisturizing between cells and strengthening the cell matrix. It can get to hair roots, as well, strengthening the scalp and reducing dry flaking or dandruff. It evens out skin tone and reduces blotchiness.
How to Use It
Hemp oil is inexpensive—especially when you think of all the products it replaces: acne treatments, makeup to cover problem areas, moisturizers, and makeup removers, for instance. Here are just a few ways you can use this effective oil in your daily skin and hair care routines.
Hemp oil contains unsurpassed essential fatty acids (EFAs). As we are increasingly learning, there are good fats and there are bad fats. What makes a good fat good has much to do with these EFAs, specifically omega-3 and omega-6, which are present in hemp oil in the perfect ratio of 1:3. Plus, hemp oil contains the anti-inflammatory gamma linoleic acid (GLA) as well as omega-9. Its fatty acid profile is better than fish oil’s, better than flaxseed oil’s—it is the best. Among many benefits, these EFAs provide for more elastic skin and shiny, stronger hair.
Hemp oil contains a power-packed punch of additional nutrients, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5, vitamin B9 (folate), and vitamin D (of which it is the only plant source), along with a useful dose of the antioxidant vitamin E (tocopherols) as well as all 10 amino acids for protein building. Add to that list chlorophyll (that’s why it’s green), phytosterols, phospholipids, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, and a bit of iron and zinc.
Hemp oil is extremely non-comodogenic. In other words, it doesn’t clog pores. And because its lipids mirror the lipids that our skin produces naturally, it works in sync with our body to soothe and cleanse. Healthy skin produces linoleic acid. If, for whatever reason, the skin can’t produce linoleic acid, it alternatively produces oleic acid, a thick and sticky pore blocker. Hemp oil contains the good linoleic acid.
Hemp oil is also a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin. Instead of sitting on top of the skin the way less-effective oils do, it’s able to penetrate the skin, moisturizing between cells and strengthening the cell matrix. It can get to hair roots, as well, strengthening the scalp and reducing dry flaking or dandruff. It evens out skin tone and reduces blotchiness.
How to Use It
Hemp oil is inexpensive—especially when you think of all the products it replaces: acne treatments, makeup to cover problem areas, moisturizers, and makeup removers, for instance. Here are just a few ways you can use this effective oil in your daily skin and hair care routines.
- Alleviate dry skin. Rub the oil directly onto dry, cracked skin. For a deep conditioning treatment for hands and feet, massage in the oil then wear socks or gloves overnight to let it work its magic.
- Strengthen nails and heal cuticles. Massage a small amount of hemp oil directly into nails and cuticles—great for both fingernails and toenails.
- Remove makeup. Oil follows the “like dissolves like” rule, which means that hemp oil will dissolve the oils and waxes in makeup, especially in stubborn eye makeup. Gently rub a small amount of oil into the makeup and wipe with a cotton ball or a soft tissue.
- Mask overnight. Massage hemp oil into cleansed facial skin before bedtime.
- Steam facial skin. Massage a tablespoon of oil into the skin on your dry, clean face, massaging for several minutes. Then lay a hot (not scalding) damp washcloth over your face and let it sit until it cools. Wipe with the washcloth. Repeat with another hot washcloth until all the oil is wiped off. Washing your face afterwards is optional.
- Condition hair. Before shampooing, massage a tablespoon or so of hemp oil into your scalp and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Afterwards, shampoo as normal. You might find you don’t need conditioner.
- Reduce acne. This may sound crazy, but this oil actually reduces acne. Massage hemp oil into problem areas and work it in gently for several minutes. The oil will actually draw out sebum plugs that cause whiteheads, blackheads, and even cysts. Do this daily during breakouts.
- Relieve eczema. A 2005 study found that 2 tablespoons of dietary hemp seed oil consumed daily may help relieve the effects of atopic dermatitis, or eczema.
- Support overall health. Eat it. You can eat it straight and enjoy its nutty flavor or you can put it in salad dressings, as a butter replacement on toast, rice, potatoes, vegetables...it’s delicious! Keep in mind that pure hemp seed oil cannot be used for high-heat cooking. It has a low smoke point and will totally break down even at a moderate heat, at which point all nutritional benefits are lost.
Happy Hound's with Hemp?
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Hemp Dog Food
That’s why hemp seed oil as a supplement or ingredient in dog food is showing great promise as is hempseed meal as an addition to both small and large animal feed. The protein in hemp is easily digested and could possibly be an alternate or supplemental source of protein in the food but more research is needed. Hemp Food Australia, a hemp advocacy group that sells hemp products but no pet products, reports that canine health benefits from hemp protein include:
“Dogs are predominantly carnivorous and built to eat meat. That’s why hemp oil & hemp protein power products need to be added as a supplement to the diet… not as a replacement.”Hemp Oil for Dogs Most dog foods are like “fast foods” for humans - without all the nutrients and only made to taste good. Hemp seed oil is better than fish or flax seed based oils because it naturally has the perfect Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio ( 3:1 ) of fatty acids which your dog needs. Hemp oil moisturizes a dog’s skin and fur correctly because it is herbal and has virtually no side effects like fish oil - but it must be administered in the right quantities. Hemp seed oil prevents dog’s skin disorders such as dry nose, dog acne, dog eczema, dog rash and dog dandruff. Hemp seed oil can enhance blood circulation and stimulate a dog’s cognitive thinking. Plus, it can thicken its fur texture and lessen shedding. Again, because hemp oil is extracted from the “industrial hemp” plant there are no psychoactive reactors. Here is the recommended dosage of hemp seed oil for pets:
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I just wanted to let y'all know how great Hank has been doing! We are truly amazed at how much faster your product helped him heal from flea allergy dermatitis - we started by adding a new preventative but your oil increased healing least 4x faster than coconut oil ever did and he doesn't even have dry patches, hot spots or dandruff anymore!
As a rescue that specializes in severe dermatological cases, we cannot wait to utilize your oil on our next mange pups! Thank you so very much! **** FIVE STARS FOR MINDSPRING ALL DAY LONG! Warmest regards, Jenn, Ben, Natalie & the Black Dog Refuge Tampa, Inc. pack & crew -- 11/29/2016 |