Top Benefits of Hemp Oil for Health & Wellness (NZ Guide)

Hemp oil has become a popular natural option for those seeking gentle, plant-based ways to support their well-being. But what exactly is it, and how is it different from CBD oil?

Hemp oil (also called hemp seed oil) is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. Unlike CBD oil, which is extracted from the flowers and leaves and may contain cannabinoids like CBD or THC, hemp oil contains only trace amounts of these compounds. Its value lies in its impressive nutritional profile and versatility – from supporting heart and skin health to aiding digestion.

In this guide, we break down the potential benefits of hemp oil, how it works, and how to use it safely.

Key Benefits of Hemp Oil

1. Heart Health

Hemp oil contains:

• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
  
• Arginine, an amino acid
  
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
  

These may help:

• Support healthy cholesterol levels
  
• Reduce inflammation
  
• Relax blood vessels
  

Animal studies have shown that hemp oil can reduce blood plasma triglycerides and markers associated with cardiovascular risk³.

2. Brain Function

Hemp oil is one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3s, which play a role in:

• Cognitive function
  
• Mood regulation
  
• Brain cell communication
  

This makes it especially valuable for vegetarians or those who don’t consume fish⁴.

3. Digestive Support

Due to its anti-inflammatory fatty acid content, hemp oil may help:

• Soothe digestive discomfort
  
• Support gut lining health
  
• Improve regularity
  

Studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids may reduce symptoms in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease⁵.

4. Skin Health

Applied topically or taken orally, hemp oil may help:

• Moisturise dry or irritated skin
  
• Soothe inflammation
  
• Support conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne
  

Its benefits may be due to:

• GLA and linoleic acid
  
• Vitamin E
  
• A balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3
  

Some studies suggest that hemp oil may improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis⁶⁻⁸.

5. Pain and Inflammation

While not a painkiller, hemp oil may support those with chronic pain due to its anti-inflammatory compounds. Research has found that:

• GLA can inhibit inflammatory markers like NF-kappaB⁹
  
• Topical use may help with joint stiffness and skin irritation
• A combination of hemp oil and other natural oils reduced pain by over 50% in a recent clinical trial¹⁰

 

6. Nutritional Value

Hemp oil retains much of the nutritional value of the hemp seed, including:

• Proteins
  
• Fibre
  
• Linoleic and α-linolenic acid
  
• Gamma-linolenic acid
• Vitamins and minerals⁴

Topically:
Apply directly to skin for hydration or relief. Always patch test first:

• Apply to clean, dry skin
  
• Leave for 24 hours
  
• If no reaction occurs, it’s safe to use
  

Orally:
Start with 1–2 teaspoons daily in food or on its own. As with any supplement, check with your doctor before beginning.

Final Thoughts

Hemp oil is a versatile and nutrient-rich plant oil with a wide range of potential benefits. From improving skin health and supporting digestion to reducing inflammation and promoting heart health, it’s an accessible wellness tool with minimal side effects.
However, it’s important to choose a high-quality product and speak with a healthcare provider before using it regularly, especially if you’re managing a medical condition or taking other medications.
Want to know if hemp or CBD oil is right for you?
Book a consultation with a doctor or nurse at Cannabis Clinic today.

References

1. Rehman, M. et al. (2021). Evaluation of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) as an industrial crop: a review. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 28(38), 52832–52843.
   
2. Cerino, P. et al. (2021). A review of hemp as food and nutritional supplement. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 6(1), 19–27.
   
3. Majewski, M., & Jurgoński, A. (2021). The Effect of Hemp Seeds and Hemp Seed Oil on Vascular Dysfunction in Obese Male Zucker Rats. Nutrients, 13(8), 2575.
   
4. Farinon, B. et al. (2020). The seed of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.): Nutritional quality and potential functionality for human health and nutrition. Nutrients, 12(7), 1935.
   
5. Marton, L. T. et al. (2019). Omega fatty acids and inflammatory bowel diseases: an overview. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 20(19), 4851.
   
6. Rustad, A. M. et al. (2022). The role of diet modification in atopic dermatitis: navigating the complexity. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 23(1), 27–36.
   
7. Reynolds, K. A. et al. (2019). The role of oral vitamins and supplements in the management of atopic dermatitis: a systematic review. International Journal of Dermatology, 58(12), 1371–1376.
   
8. Maghfour, J. et al. (2021). Tolerability of topical CBD and PEA formulations. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 46(8), 1518–1529.
   
9. Chang, C. S. et al. (2010). Gamma-linolenic acid inhibits inflammatory responses by regulating NF-kappaB and AP-1 activation. Inflammation, 33(1), 46–57.
10. Carlisle, C. et al. (2023). Alleviation of Pain, Pain Interference, and Oxidative Stress by a Novel Combination of Hemp Oil, Calamari Oil, and Broccoli. Nutrients, 15(12), 2654.