Hemp oil - for skin and salads?

Once widely used by our grandmothers, then somewhat forgotten, today it returns to favor again. Hemp oil, because we are talking about it, as the producers convince us, is an almost perfect substance. Is it really? Let's check it out!

Until recently, not much was said about this oil, and yet it was once extremely popular and used almost universally - especially for the treatment of many skin lesions. It is obtained in the process of cold-pressing hemp seeds - cannabis sativa (not to be confused with cannabis) and is characterized by a unique, slightly nutty flavor and greenish color.

What's in hemp oil?

Hemp oil has been thoroughly researched by scientists. It turns out that it is an extremely rich source of unsaturated fatty acids . It is emphasized that this oil contains exceptionally many of them, as much as 75%. Therefore, we can find in it: linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, or linolenic acid which soothes inflammation. Its power, however, lies not only in the content of beneficial substances, but also in their perfect proportion. According to scientists, hemp oil has an ideal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6, which is 1: 3. There is no need to convince anyone about the properties of omega acids: they support the work of our circulatory and nervous systems, and also support immunity.
What else is hidden in hemp oil? Vitamins and minerals! And lots of it. It is rich in B group vitamins, vitamins A, C, E, as well as magnesium, calcium and zinc. To all this, you also need to add antioxidants, phytosterols and amino acids.

Where's the catch?

Having such a composition, hemp oil appears to us as an ideal oil. Many people will think that it is so beautiful that it cannot be true and there must be a catch somewhere. Is. It is related to the expiry date of the hemp oil. Due to such a valuable composition, the oil does not tolerate contact with both air and light. It is not intended for frying - just like in linseed oil, valuable acids are destroyed under the influence of such high temperatures. You have to remember to store it in the refrigerator, in a tightly closed bottle.

How to choose hemp oil?

From the consumer's point of view, the most important thing is to choose the best and most valuable hemp oil. And as it turns out, oil is uneven. So what should we pay attention to?

First: Origin
The most important thing is to buy the selected hemp oil in a reputable store, e.g. with us;) - then we can be sure that the seller makes every effort to ensure that the oil offered by him retains its values ​​- stores it properly, etc. It should also be made of plants from certified crops. Therefore, it is best to choose the one marked "BIO".

Second: Refined or unrefined?
Of course it's unrefined! The most valuable is unrefined, cold-pressed oil. Refined oil can be recognized by the fact that it is transparent, has a very weak taste and practically negligible amount of nutritional value.

Third: Taste
Hemp oil is known primarily for its aroma and taste - spicy, with a nutty note. Therefore, it is worth looking for an oil that, thanks to the production process (unrefined, cold pressed), retains these properties.

Hemp oil: how to apply?

As already mentioned, hemp oil should not be used for frying. Therefore, it is an excellent ingredient of all salad dressings. It can be added to cocktails and recently fashionable smoothies - because of its unique taste. Many people also add it to freshly prepared dishes (groats, soups) or pour it on bread and eat it.
This oil is also a valued cosmetic . Few people know that its chemical composition is similar to that of the protective fat secreted by our skin. It can be applied directly to the skin and, interestingly, does not leave a greasy film on it. It is recommended for oily, combination, acne-prone or dry skin. Perfectly moisturizes, heals all irritations and improves its color.

Hemp oil is an absolute must have. After all, it has many health-promoting properties. Remember, however, that the key to success is choosing the right and really valuable one !