Hemp Seed (superfood)

Have you come across any food that is known to have multiple benefits such as sharpened memory, detoxification, increased energy?

Bhanga (cannabis/hemp) seeds are used as a flavouring agent in the Uttarakhand Hills. The seeds are roasted and ground to a paste with jaggery, green chillies and garlic. This paste is used to season a host of vegetables, especially gaderi, arbi, cauliflower and spinach. The flavour of the seeds comes out when roasted. An alternative is to extract the liquid for flavour, discarding the coarse hull. Besides the Bhang seeds are also used to make the delicious Pahari Bhang ki chutney.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Bhang seeds are packed with minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc, vitamins such as Vitamin E,  B12, B6, D and high quality digestible protein. They are enriched with all 20 amino acids (including the 9 essential amino acids that are not naturally produced by the human body). They have also been found to be the richest plant source of fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6, surprisingly even more than that present in flax seeds.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF HEMP SEEDS

1 . Reduce Risk of Heart Disease – Hemp seeds or hemp seed oil is found to reduce blood pressure, decrease the risk of blood clot formation and also helps recover after an heart attack.

2 . Aid In Digestion – Being high in fiber, both soluble (20%) and insoluble (80%), these seeds aid digestion and keep the bowel movements regular. The insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools and acts as a laxative.The shell of the hemp seeds contains most of the fiber. So, it is best to consume them along with the shell.

3 . Boost Immunity – The seeds are a rich source of globulin and omega- 3 fatty acids, and provide the body with immunoglobulins that make disease fighting antibodies. The omega-3 fatty acids helps in fighting inflammation in the body.

4 . Excellent For Vegetarians – The seeds are packed with amino acids like methionine, cysteine, arginine and glutamic acid, and  serve as a complete source of protein. Highly nutritious in nature, these seeds help in promoting good health. Two tablespoons of hemp seeds roughly contain 7-11 grams of protein (equivalent to protein in two eggs). Therefore the seeds serves as an excellent plant protien option for vegans and vegetarians.

5 . Reduce Arthritis Pain – Hemp oil capsules are among the recommended oils for long term use in people with arthritis pain. The oil reduces joint pain and lubricates the stiff joints. It can be used in cooking or can be consumed directly.

6 . Lower Cholesterol – Hemp seeds contain naturally occurring plant sterols (phytosterols). These sterols have been found to effective in lowering cholestrol levels.

7 . Treat Skin Disorders – Hemp oil is found to be beneficial for skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. The oil penetrates the skin layers and thereafter promotes healthy cell growth. A rich source of Vitamin E, is is used as an antioxidant in cosmetic products such as lip balms, lotions and soaps also.

WAYS TO INCLUDE HEMP SEEDS IN DIET

– The seeds can be consumed raw as dressing for salads, yogurt or oatmeal.
– They can also be cooked or roasted together with vegetables. You can sprinkle them over breakfast cereals or add them to your chutneys.
– The seeds can also be pressed for oil and consumed.
– When used as a  laxative, it is best to consume them along with the outer shell, since it is high in fiber.

So, go ahead and add these seeds to your daily diet and reap the countless health benefits that they have to offer.