For a plant that was highly appreciated in the past given its unmatchable benefits and value, cannabis has quite the opposite reputation lingering around now, although it is popularly (and illegally) used for recreational purposes all across the globe today.
The debate to prove whether it has health benefits lasted for almost as long as it has been used and recent studies have seen some positive results. This has led to it being extensively used for medical purposes, which then rippled into states like Florida with Medical Marijuana Dispensaries popping up amidst similar regularizing steps.
Cannabis plants, like a few others, are completely useful from its leaves to CBD-rich cannabis strains like Alaskan Thunderfuck to seeds. The seeds especially have been proven to contain various health benefits that the world is yet to know much about, and they are available in a variety of strains. For example, there are Kush seeds (which have its origins in the Hindu Kush mountains), Blueberry seeds, Purple Widow seeds, and even cannabis seeds that taste like chocolate.
But before diving deep into the variety, what good can the nutty hemp flavour do to your body? Read to find out.
1. It is a rich source of Omega-3 and Omega -6
Like fish oils, which are enriched with Omega -3 and Omega -6 fatty acids, hemp seeds also contain these fatty acids in a 3:1 ratio. These Omegas are essential for the production of the protein that is the basic building block of life. Cannabis seeds come handy for those looking for an alternate source to fish for Omegas.
It enhances the functioning of your brain which helps defend against mental disorders, dementia, and the onset of Alzheimer’s. It also helps with better cardiovascular functions and maintains blood pressure in our body.
The seeds are also rich in vitamins A, E, D and B, fibre, and minerals such as sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, and sulphur that are necessary for healthy functioning of our body. All this makes Cannabis seeds a great aid for people with low immunity. The presence of omegas also means the seeds aid in bringing better skin health, which can relieve conditions such as eczema and symptoms related to dermatitis.
2. To counter PMS symptoms
There are few natural sources that have been proven to have a positive effect on PMS symptoms. Apart from the previously mentioned Omegas, Cannabis seeds also contain GLA, or Gamma-linolenic acid, which is critical for influencing PMS symptoms as proven by studies. It is also said that the effects are strong and can be used to handle symptoms of menopause.
These seeds also contain antioxidants which are essential for the body.
3. Helps with weight management
A handful of hemp seeds is filling, and for those looking to cut down on meals to lose a few kilos can choose this. At the same time, if you wish to bulk up, Cannabis seeds are yet again the right choice as they can be used as a great supplement. You can even add it as a topping to your everyday diet and it will hardly alter the flavour of your food.
4. A rich source of protein
Cannabis seeds have been proven to be rich sources of protein that helps in bodybuilding. Hemp powders have been widely used by athletes and many fitness professionals accept the fact that it helps them with achieving the results they want from their workouts. Hemp seeds can be included as a part of daily diet especially for those who look for protein sources other than meat. In fact, it has an advantage even over meat as it is low-fat and low-carb too.
5. Helps in dealing with Depression and Anxiety
Cannabis seeds have been proven to work effectively as a muscle relaxant and in controlling and balancing the nervous system. These seeds can help deal with depression and anxiety disorders as well as help control conditions such as insomnia and epileptic fits.
Cannabis seeds are available in dispensaries where you can purchase them as hemp oil or directly as seeds and consume. While both Hemp and Marijuana fall under the Cannabis plant, it is advisable to go for hemp seeds as they contain lower THC, which is the psychoactive substance in Cannabis. Consuming up to 2 spoons of hemp seeds daily can be beneficial for your health. You can use it for your salad dressing, add it to your cereal, oatmeal, or as an add-on to anything you eat.
The medicinal effects of Cannabis seeds have been proven to be very effective. But there are certain limitations to handling marijuana as it could be easily misused. A more systematic method such as the one in Florida where you need a medical marijuana card can help avoid abuse of this wonder plant and help take its benefits forward to the world.