Health Benefits of the Hemp Plant
The hemp plant is one of nature’s most beneficial resources, offering both nutritional and wellness support for humans and animals alike. From protein-rich hemp seeds to naturally occurring cannabinoids like CBD, every part of the plant contributes to overall health.
Hemp seeds are packed with protein, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which support skin health, immune function, and overall well-being. Meanwhile, the hemp plant itself contains beneficial cannabinoids that help maintain balance in the body. CBD, in particular, has gained popularity for its potential to support stress relief, skin health, and a normal inflammatory response.
While hemp is part of the cannabis plant family, it contains only trace amounts of THC—the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. This means hemp-derived products won’t get you or your pet “high.” Instead, hemp provides natural nutritional support and wellness benefits.
The best part? These benefits apply to both people and pets, making hemp a powerful addition to a healthy lifestyle for you and your furry companion.
Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Seeds
-
Protein.
Hemp seeds contain almost as much protein as the soybean, one of the world’s biggest sources of plant protein. Proteins are made up of amino acids, and many plant sources of protein are incomplete, meaning that they don’t have all of the essential amino acids the body needs. Not so with hemp seeds. They contain all the amino acids needed to make a complete protein, making them highly nourishing for humans and pets alike.
-
Unsaturated fats.
Not all fats are created equal. While often vilified, there are very important fats that the body needs to function healthfully. Hemp seeds contain high levels of polyunsaturated fats that are an important group of fats that many people don’t get enough of in their diet. These fats include essential fatty acids omega-3s and omega-6s. These fats nourish the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and skin, to name a few benefits.
-
Fiber.
If you are buying hemp seeds with their hulls, or shell, you’re in for a good fiber boost. Even without the shells, hemp seeds are an impressive source of fiber. Fiber is a highly beneficial food and can have a very positive impact on your health. Fiber can reduce your appetite, help with weight management, stabilize blood sugar levels, and promote a healthy digestive tract.
-
Minerals and vitamins.
The benefits just keep coming. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals help all of the body’s systems, including the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. With almost as many vitamins as a multivitamin, you are giving your body a healthy dose of essential nutrients when you eat hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are particularly high in vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, and the B vitamins niacin (B3), riboflavin (B2), thiamine (B1), vitamin B-6, and folate (B9).
Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds
-
Protect your brain.
Support your brain health with hemp seeds. A recent study published in the journal of Food Chemistry found that hemp seeds have a powerful antioxidant effect related to the cannabinoids (CBD) found in hemp seeds. Another study suggests that CBD and other compounds in hemp seeds may have neuroprotective effects and may also help to regulate the immune system.
-
Boost heart health.
Your doctor knows that omega-3’s are good for your heart and would approve of you eating omega-3 rich hemp seeds. Hemp seeds also have a healthy ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. These compounds can help improve heart health. Hemp seeds also have a lot of arginine, which is an amino acid that is made into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide acts on the blood vessels, keeping them smooth and healthy.
-
Support a Normal Inflammatory Response
There’s more good news about hemp seeds and their high content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help the body fight inflammation. Part of this action comes from the healthful ratio of omega-3’s and omega-6’s that hemp seeds contain.
Hemp seeds also contain high amounts of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is a polyunsaturated fatty acid. Studies on animals have shown that GLA can help support a normal inflammatory response. -
Help keep skin healthy.
Healthy skin benefits from both essential fatty acids and fiber. It’s safe to say that your skin will benefit from the addition of hemp seeds to your diet. The essential fatty acids in hemp seed oil nourish the skin from the inside out. Omega-6’s help support the structure and integrity of skin, and both omega-3 and omega-6 help support healthy skin both inside and on the outside. The fiber found in eating whole hemp seeds is also good for skin health.
-
Hemps seeds add fiber to the diet.
Fiber offers a host of health benefits, beyond just aiding in regular digestion. High fiber foods support the health of beneficial gut flora. Having plenty of healthy gut flora has been linked to healthier immune systems and less inflammation. Intake of dietary fiber also supports a healthy colon. Also, fiber can have a beneficial impact on weight loss by helping people feel more full after eating less food. Eating high fiber foods slows the absorption rate of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, which supports healthy blood sugar levels. Hemp seeds are a good source of soluble fiber, which is fiber that softens and dissolves in water. They also contain bulky, non dissolving but equally healthful insoluble fiber.
CBD and Pet Health
CBD interacts with your pet’s body in a similar way to how it interacts with yours. Humans, cats, and dogs all have cannabinoid receptors in their nervous systems, which are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, or homeostasis, throughout the body.
Because CBD works with the central nervous system, it can have a widespread impact on your pet’s health. It may support digestive health, immune function, musculoskeletal wellness, and overall nervous system balance. Additionally, CBD has potential benefits for skin health, helping to maintain a healthy coat and skin barrier.
CBD and the Nervous System
Changes in your pet’s environment—such as a new baby, a new pet, or moving to a new home—can cause stress. CBD may help promote relaxation and emotional balance, making transitions smoother for your pet.
If your pet exhibits destructive or aggressive behaviors, incorporating CBD products into their routine alongside training may encourage a calmer demeanor. By supporting the nervous system, CBD can help your pet feel more at ease in stressful situations, promoting overall well-being and contentment.
CBD and Digestion
A healthy digestive system is essential for your pet’s overall well-being. CBD may support digestion by promoting gut health and balance. If your pet experiences occasional loose stools due to stress or dietary changes, CBD products can help maintain a healthy digestive tract. Additionally, CBD may support good gut flora and help regulate gut pH, contributing to optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.
CBD and the Immune System
A strong immune system is essential for your pet’s overall health. CBD may support immune function by helping the body maintain its natural defenses against harmful bacteria and environmental allergens. With its immune-enhancing properties, CBD products promote overall wellness and helps your pet’s body maintain resilience against pathogens and stressors.
CBD and the Musculoskeletal System
Whether your pet is showing signs of stiffness or you're looking to maintain healthy joints, CBD can help. CBD supports connective tissue, while also promoting the health of bones and joints. If your pet experiences occasional joint discomfort, CBD products can assist in maintaining mobility and flexibility, helping them move more comfortably. Keep your pet's musculoskeletal system in top shape with the natural benefits of CBD!
CBD and Skin Health
Skin health is essential, especially for pets dealing with skin issues. CBD balms can help maintain your pet's skin by promoting normal moisture levels and overall skin health. Topical CBD is especially beneficial for pets with sensitive skin, as it works to soothe and support skin health naturally.
CBD and Seasonal Allergies
Pets with seasonal allergies often suffer from runny eyes, noses, and itchy, inflamed skin. CBD can help alleviate these symptoms by supporting normal histamine levels in the body. Since an excess of histamines causes allergy symptoms, CBD products can help manage and soothe seasonal allergies, including skin-related issues like itching and irritation.
CBD and Occasional Discomfort
CBD can help relieve inflammation and occasional discomfort in pets caused by everyday activities and exercise. Whether it's from a playful run or an active day, CBD products support the body’s natural repair of connective tissue and joints. It can be especially beneficial for pets with joint tenderness or stiffness, helping them move more comfortably after physical activity.
Pet Releaf and CBD
Pet Releaf cultivates its hemp in the U.S. using regenerative and sustainable farming practices. Pet Releaf is certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), ensuring safety and transparency within the pet supplement industry. This certification means that Pet Releaf products are randomly tested by third-party laboratories to confirm quality and potency, giving you peace of mind when choosing CBD for your pet.
Need help choosing the right CBD product for your pet? Take our Product Quiz for personalized recommendations from our team and get 15% off your first purchase!
Popular posts
