With many states legalizing medical marijuana, there is more interest than ever in hemp oil supplements. These products can be effective for a number of conditions. Let’s look at the most important hemp oil uses and benefits.
Hemp Oil
Not everyone is clear about the distinctions between marijuana, and hemp oil. Technically, both marijuana and hemp are terms for the cannabis plant. However, in popular and legal terms, hemp usually refers to cannabis that contains very low levels of THC, the psychoactive chemical in marijuana.
Offers Pain Relief
One of the primary hemp oil uses and benefits is that it provides pain relief for a wide variety of ailments. People use hemp oil to manage pain from injuries, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and many other conditions.
Prevents Epilepsy Seizures
Hemp oil has been proven effective at reducing the occurrence of seizures in children and adults with epilepsy. However, it can have harmful side effects when taken with certain epilepsy drugs.
Manage Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
People suffering from conditions such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) use hemp oil to alleviate their symptoms. Hemp is a natural alternative to pharmaceutical drugs and can also help with side effects of anxiety and depression such as headaches, insomnia and sexual dysfunction.
Helps Manage Cancer Symptoms
Another beneficial effect of hemp oil is its ability to help cancer patients manage pain, nausea and the side effects of chemotherapy. It can also be helpful in lessening the anxiety and depression that often accompany serious illnesses. Some studies suggest that hemp has anti-cancer properties that may prevent or slow the progression of the disease but more research is needed to confirm this.
May be Effective Against Autoimmune Diseases
Hemp oil shows promise in managing the symptoms of autoimmune conditions such as lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis and others. It’s clear that hemp can offer pain relief to people with such conditions. However, there’s also research suggesting that hemp supports immune function and may help to alleviate the severity of such diseases.
How to Choose a Hemp Oil Supplement
If you want to enjoy the many benefits of hemp oil, it’s important to choose the right product. Here are some guidelines to follow when shopping for hemp oil supplements.
- Pay attention to the quantities of hemp in each bottle or dose. Look for products that provide this information so you can regulate the dosage you consume.
- Read the list of ingredients. Some products may include other natural or artificial ingredients. It’s best to choose products that are pure cannabis.
- Consider where the hemp was grown. Many hemp oil products are made from hemp grown overseas, which may contain all kinds of contaminants. Hemp grown in certain states in the U.S., such as Colorado, is regulated.
Note if the company provides test results. A reputable seller of hemp oil can provide a certificate of analysis or COA, which confirms levels of active ingredients.