Hemp is a very versatile plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. There are several varieties of hemp, some of which are used for their psychotropic properties (cannabis), and others for their fibers, seeds, oils or industrial applications (industrial hemp). Industrial hemp is distinguished from cannabis by its low THC content, the substance responsible for the psychoactive effects. Industrial hemp must have a THC content of less than or equal to 0.2% to be legally cultivated in France.

Hemp is a plant that has many environmental, economic and social benefits. It can be used to make textiles, construction materials, cosmetics, biofuels, food, medicines and many other products. Hemp is also beneficial for soils, biodiversity, climate and human health. Here are some examples of uses of hemp:

• Textiles: hemp fibers are strong, durable, absorbent and antibacterial. They can be used to make clothing, bags, ropes, rugs, canvases or sails. Hemp is an eco-friendly alternative to cotton, which requires a lot of water and pesticides. Hemp can also be mixed with other natural or synthetic fibers to create innovative fabrics.
• Construction: Hemp can be used to make building materials such as hempcrete, hemp wool, hemp boards or hemp bricks. These materials are insulating, lightweight, resistant to fire, mold and rodents. They help reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and construction waste. Hemp can also be used for interior decoration, such as wallpaper, flooring or furniture.
• Cosmetics: hemp oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. It has moisturizing, nourishing, regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to make cosmetic products such as creams, balms, soaps, shampoos or massage oils. Hemp oil can also be used for hair, skin, nail or lip care.
• Biofuels: Hemp can be used to make biofuels such as biodiesel, ethanol or methane. These biofuels are renewable, biodegradable and less polluting than fossil fuels. Hemp can also be used for the production of biomass, which can be transformed into electricity or heat.
• Food: Hemp seeds are a source of protein, fiber, minerals and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They have beneficial effects on the immune system, the cardiovascular system, the nervous system and the digestive system. Hemp seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, ground or pressed into oil or flour. They can be used to make food products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, bread, biscuits, energy bars or drinks.
• Pharmaceuticals: Hemp contains cannabinoids, chemical compounds that act on the endocannabinoid system of the human body. Some cannabinoids, such as CBD, have therapeutic properties known to treat diseases or symptoms such as epilepsy, pain, anxiety, inflammation, glaucoma or multiple sclerosis. Hemp can be used to make medicines in the form of oil, capsules, softgels, creams, sprays or inhalers.

Hemp is therefore a multifaceted plant, which offers sustainable and innovative solutions for the future. Hemp is grown around the world, but legislation varies by country. In Europe, hemp is supported by the Common Agricultural Policy and the European Green Deal, which aim to promote agriculture that is more respectful of the environment and health. Hemp is also a source of jobs, income and rural development for farmers, manufacturers and consumers.

In a screw press, the healthy and cleaned seeds are pressed in the first cold pressing, without any intervention of solvent or chemical product. Then the oil is successively filtered on blotting paper. The oil is then stored away from light and heat.

It is necessary to distinguish between the properties of hemp seed oil and the properties of cannabinoids which are active compounds that are not found in the seeds but in the upper parts, or tops of the plant.

What we call virgin hemp oil is actually hemp seed oil.

Properties of hemp seed oil on the skin

Hemp seed oil is Non-comedogenic (the comedogenicity of a substance is the tendency of an ingredient to obstruct the sebaceous glands, responsible for the production of sebum). She strengthens the hydrolipidic film of the epidermis and helps reduce transcutaneous water loss.
Better :
Hemp seed oil is a plant oil that has many beneficial properties for the skin. Here are some of its virtues:

• It deeply hydrates the skin, thanks to its richness in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin barrier and prevent dehydration.
• It regulates sebum production, making it suitable for oily and combination skin. It helps reduce blemishes, blackheads and pimples, by purifying pores and calming inflammation.
• It fights against skin aging, by stimulating the production of collagen and protecting the skin from free radicals. It reduces wrinkles, fine lines and spots, and restores radiance and suppleness to the skin.
• It soothes sensitive, irritated or reactive skin, relieving redness, itching, burns or sunburn. It has healing, antiseptic and anti-infectious properties, which promote the repair of damaged tissues.

To use hemp seed oil on the skin, simply apply a few drops to the face or body, massaging gently until completely absorbed. You can also add it to your day or night cream, or to your moisturizing mask. Hemp seed oil is a dry oil, which does not leave a greasy film on the skin. It is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

Hemp seed oil is a natural and safe oil, which has no particular contraindications. However, it is recommended to do an allergy test before using it, applying a small amount to the elbow crease and waiting 24 hours. If no reaction appears, you can use it without fear. You must also be careful to choose quality hemp seed oil, from organic farming and without chemical additives.

Properties of edible hemp seed oil

Hemp seed oil is a vegetable oil that has many nutritional properties. Here are some of its virtues:

• It is rich in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the cardiovascular system, nervous system, immune system and skin health.
• It contains high quality proteins, which provide all the essential amino acids to the body. It is particularly interesting for vegetarians, vegans and athletes.
• It is a source of vitamins, notably vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties, and group B vitamins, which are involved in energy metabolism.
• It is a source of minerals, such as magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and copper, which participate in many vital functions.
• It has a pleasant taste, reminiscent of hazelnut, and which goes well with salads, raw vegetables, soups, pasta, rice or vegetables.

Hemp seed oil is therefore a nutritious, healthy and tasty oil, which can enrich your diet and bring you many benefits. It is only consumed cold, because it cannot withstand cooking which destroys its omega-3. It is recommended to consume 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp seed oil per day to meet essential fatty acid needs. You must also choose quality hemp seed oil, from organic farming and without chemical additives.

Fatty acids composition

• palmitic acid (SFA): 5 to 12%
• palmitoleic acid (omega 7 MUFA): ≤ 1%
• stearic acid (SFA): 1 to 4%
• oleic acid (omega 9 MUFA): 10 to 16%
• linoleic acid (omega 6 PUFA) : 45 to 65%
• alpha-linolenic acid (Omega 3 PUFA): 14 to 30%
• arachidic acid (SFA): ≤ 2%
• eicosenoic acid (Omega 9 MUFA): ≤ 1%
• gamma-linolenic acid (Omega 6 PUFA): 2 to 6%
• stearidonic acid: ≤ 2