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Earthy, oily and slightly sweet, hemp seeds are a hearty addition to your winter diet.
These dense seeds nourish and build tissue, leaving you feeling strong, stable and sustained, even during the harshest months of the year. Their grounding nature helps keep you calm in times of stress, while their sedative effect soothes an agitated nervous system and induces feelings of deep relaxation.
Blended in smoothies, tossed in salads, or sprinkled on soup, hemp seeds add creaminess and bulk to your meals. If you don't tolerate dairy, you can even make your own homemade hemp milk from the seeds.
They tend to expire quickly, so it is better to buy the seeds in smaller quantities.
The sweet, oily, and heavy qualities mean they are particularly beneficial for Vata dosha, and also balance Pitta. The density and cooling nature of the seeds mean they can aggravate Kapha, especially if digestion is weak or sluggish.
The first record of this wild seed dates back to ancient civilizations over 10,000 years ago. Over the millenia, it has been cultivated and harvested for an array of uses, including clothing, construction materials, and even paper.
In recent years, the popularity of hemp seeds has increased dramatically as people have started recognizing the nutritious benefits.
There has been much debate and controversy about hemp seeds, as they are from the same plant as marijuana - cannabis sativa. Countries around the world have differing laws regarding the production, harvesting and selling of products from this plant, as certain parts have a psychoactive component (THC).
However, US law defines hemp as all parts of any cannabis sativa plant containing no psychoactive properties. This means the seeds you find on US supermarket shelves do not contain any measurable amounts of psychoactive compounds and are safe for consumption.
Hemp for Heart Health
It's no coincidence that hemp seeds, specifically the shelled variety, are also known as "hemp hearts." These seeds do, in fact, have a particular affinity for the heart and are known to benefit heart health. From an Ayurvedic perspective, hemp seeds act as a nutritive tonic that increase strength in the body, including the cardiovascular system.
These seeds are one of the only plant sources to have the optimal ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids naturally occuring. The proper balance of these fats is essential for heart health and prevention of conditions including atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Also, these seeds are a source of the rare fatty acid gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) which reduces inflammation, and benefits the heart and circulation.
Hemp seeds can help build strong, clean blood provided digestion is strong. They are a rich source of iron, and can be used to build the blood in cases of deficiencies such as anemia.
Soothe & Sedate
The heavy, oily and dense quality of hemp seeds gives them a grounding quality that promotes rest, sleep and stillness. In Ayurveda, foods that have this effect on the body are considered to be (tamasic). In excess, tamasic foods dull the senses and create feelings of lethargy and inertia. For this reason, they should only be eaten in moderation.
Tamasic foods do, however, play an important role in soothing and sedating the nervous system. If you tend to feel frenetic, anxious, and always rushing from one task to another, the heavy, dense qualities of hemp seeds can help you slow down and relax.
The mild sedative and tamasic effect of hemp seeds makes them a natural sleep aid, particularly for Vata constitutions. Blend a tablespoon of hemp seeds into a cup of milk, heat on the stove and add a pinch of nutmeg for a rejuvenating drink to ease you into a night of deep sleep.
Hemp seeds also have a high magnesium content which helps relax the whole body. Magnesium also stimulates the release of serotonin in the body which is converted to melatonin in the brain, promoting deep and restorative sleep.
Powerful Protein Source
Hemp seeds are highly regarded as one of the best plant sources of protein. These little seeds pack a powerful punch, as they contain all amino acids, including the nine essential ones the body cannot produce itself.
Heavy and dense in nature, the seeds promote growth and strength of bodily tissues, including the muscles.
The slightly sweet taste of the seeds gives them an anabolic quality, building and nourishing strong muscles. They impart steadiness and stamina - with an energetic feel of vigor.
Hemp seeds are a useful addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet as roughly 25% percent of its composition is protein. This high percentage of plant protein will satisfy your appetite and leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Effect on Digestion
Hemp seeds have a heavy, downward energy, supporting good bowel motility. The muscle relaxing effects of hemp are key here, as they relax tension in the bowels. The same effect may soothe IBS in some clients.
A source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, they add bulk to the stools and support smooth elimination.
In some cases, a person may experience congestion and stagnation as a result of eating hemp seeds. This generally occurs in Kapha constitutions, as their sluggish digestive system can't break down the thick gooey paste that forms from the seeds.
If your digestion is weak, or chewing insufficient, it is possible that hemp seeds will pass through the stools undigested.
The oily quality of hemp seeds helps moisten the intestines and relieve constipation, making it a suitable, mild laxative for dry, rough Vata types.
It is important to keep in mind that as these seeds can speed up motility in the bowels, they are not appropriate for someone with diarrhea.
Conclusion
Adding a little hemp seed to your meals will give you that satisfying substance and some extra crunch. These heavy, dense seeds build tissue and are a valuable source of plant protein. Oily and grounding, they soothe the nerves, helping you relax and enjoy a night of deep, rejuvenating sleep.
A nourishing tonic, hemp seeds help build strong blood and support a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. Most commonly, they benefit digestion by acting as a mild laxative, supporting regular elimination of stools.
They are generally most supportive for Vata types, but cause sluggishness for Kaphas.
Sweet, heavy and comforting, hemp seeds are used to build strength and calm the mind.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
The information and products on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any
disease.
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