Why Hemp Seed Oil?

I generally get one of two reactions when I talk about hemp seed oil in soaps and lotions. One reaction is a bit of scandalized reservation, usually from those who only associate anything hemp with marijuana. The understanding of what hemp seed oil is, can sometimes be completely lacking, and there's a hesitance to even consider it.

The second reaction is happy acceptance from those who've already been introduced to the reported benevolence and benefits of this lovely oil.

First, let's clear up a common misconception; there is no THC in hemp seed oil. You're not going to get high from it, it won't impact a drug test. It's not the same as the cannabis plant (marijuana) that has high levels of THC. The difference lies in the breed of hemp plant utilized for industrial uses. The hemp plant used for oils, wax, cloth, rope, paper and fuel is a tall-growing breed of hemp with an exceedingly low THC level, which means it's pretty useless as a drug. The cultivation of these specific hemp plants creates a safe and easily renewable crop that has a myriad of practical applications.

Hemp oil used for soaps and lotions is prized for the rich supply of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are referred to as essential fats, which are needed by the body to maintain healthy cells, nerves, and brain function. These essential fats must come from consumption and absorption, because the body doesn't make them on its own.

The lipids in hemp seed oil are wonderful as moisturizers and protectants for the skin, and can increase elasticity to dry, dehydrated skin.

Hemp oil contains high levels of vitamins A and E, as well as natural trace amounts of potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and calcium. It's also rich in anti-oxidants, which some claim are beneficial to skin's ability to slow down the aging process. While many claims are made, it's important for consumers to learn and know the facts for themselves. But it's also pretty much a chicken soup kind of ingredient...it's not going to hurt anyone.

A quick Google search will show tons of sites claiming lots of benefits. I'm not promoting those here. I think it's wise to maintain a sense of balance when addressing any such claims.

For the soap and lotion I provide to have made the cut, it had to show one property and only one property...did it do its job?

Yes. It did. And yet, I feel it's important to point out that each of those products has other, equally wonderful and important ingredients that, added together, offer up some wonderful skin-loving soaps and lotions and scrubs that people trust, love and believe in. That's what matters to me.

So don't worry about any stereotypes, risks, or even legalities when using products that have hemp oil in them. It's just fine.

#hempoil #lotion #soap