What Are The Side Effects of Hemp Oil On Your Body?
Down to its versatility and myriad of health benefits, Hemp Oil has reached an all-time high in popularity. Men and women who wish to make healthier lifestyle choices are actively choosing and using this oil. Hemp is an all-natural ingredient that can support your health and well-being through a high supply of:
- Minerals (Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron,etc.)
- Antioxidants (for example, vitamin E)
- Amino acids
- Proteins
If you’re living in the UK it’s completely legal to find, purchase, and consume this oil. However, the availability and legality of hemp oil in the US are complex and confusing due to the complicated relationship between state and federal legislation.
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is processed from the seeds and stalks of the hemp plant and despite its source, it contains little to none of the psychoactive element Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This means it cannot get you ‘high’. For instance, hemp may contain 0.3-1.5% of THC whilst marijuana contains anything from 5% to 20% plus. Hemp oil’s main components are in fact omega fatty acids, similar to those which can be found in fish and olive oil.
Are Hemp Oil And CBD Oil The Same?
Hemp oil is, as mentioned above, derived only from the seed of the hemp plant – implying there’s little or no CBD in it. It is usually made by cold-pressing hemp seeds. Whereas CBD oil is derived from the stalk, flowers, and leaves of the hemp plant. Each oil has its own sets of benefits and differs from brand to brand.
What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Hemp Oil?
Almost everything we use in our diet to prevent or manage health problems has some risks or side effects, and hemp oil is no exception. Firstly it is important to note that the negative side effects of hemp oil are rare and some may only occur in extreme cases, and they can maybe be considered minor in comparison to the side effect of pharmaceuticals. To date, there have been no reported cases of toxicity from the ingestion of hemp seed oil. Let’s look at a few side effects that may be brought about by hemp oil.
Excess Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids found in hemp oil are classified as polyunsaturated fat implying that they are healthy dietary types of fat. These compounds are extremely beneficial to the body and are ideal for human nutrition, except when taken in excess. Overindulgence of polyunsaturated fatty acids has previously been linked to cardiac dysfunction, cancer growth, and increased susceptibility to bacterial infections.
Digestive Issues
Those susceptible to gastrointestinal problems such as softening of the stool may experience mild digestive issues such as diarrhoea or stomach cramps when consuming hemp oil. If you suffer from a bowel movement disorder, consult your doctor before taking the oil.
Recommendation:
At times, you may feel that a particular digestive issue may be caused by hemp oil. But you can stop using it for 24 hours and then identify whether that’s actually the case.
May Cause Fatigue
Small portions can be stimulating and positively improve focus and mood. But higher doses may lead to drowsiness and fatigue. This is one of the reasons why people prefer using it in their night-time routine.
Interaction With Other Drugs
It’s highly recommended to consult your doctor while consuming Hemp oil, especially if you’re on cardiac glycosides or diuretics.
Other Side Effects
Hemp oil may cause hypertension also known as high blood pressure and bradycardia, otherwise known as slow heart rate.
While there are a few side effects, the positive effects of hemp oil win against these.
Hemp oils have a lot of benefits to offer like reducing anxiety, improving sleep, alleviating pain and inflammation and several others. Available in the form of oil, tinctures, supplements, and more – you may want to try them out to learn what’s in store for you!