Hemp oil or hempseed oil has come into the health industry with gusto and rapidly become a popular remedy. Claims for its benefits range from improving acne to helping treat cancer. Some of these claims are just that… claims. Others, however, have clinical data that suggest hempseed oil may be able to help certain health issues.
Hempseed oil’s ability to provide health benefits is primarily linked to its essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3’s and omega-6’s. Additionally, hempseed oil is a rich source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) – a type of omega-6.
Here’s a list of evidence based health issues hemp seed oil may indeed help.*
- A 2011 study (Published online: US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, July 19, 2011), suggests omega-3s, such as those found in hemp oil, can reduce inflammation. Inflammation can contribute to diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Several studies indicate that the omega-3s and omega-6s in hemp oil may be effective in improving a number of skin conditions, including acne and eczema.
- Suggested in an article (published: Pharmacognosy Reviews, 2014, Vol. 8) is that hemp oil can contribute to stronger skin that is more resistant to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.
- Several studies show that the hemp oil’s GLA may help with the physical and emotional symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.
- A 2017 study(Published online: US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, April 27, 2017), showed hemp oil’s antibacterial properties inhibited the activity of various types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (a dangerous bacteria that can cause skin infections, pneumonia and infections of the skin, bone, and heart valve).
*Hemp oil is very popular and research has indicated some health benefits. As with all over-the-counter products it is best to check with your doctor before applying it topically or ingesting it.