How Does Hemp Oil Alleviate Pain?
Hemp oil products are becoming more and more popular in international markets. Though the jury is still out for many of its supposed benefits, a lot of users swear by its effectiveness in alleviating physical problems as well as improving mental health.
To help you find out if hemp oil is for you, we’re going to take a deep dive into the relationship between hemp oil and pain. We’re going to discuss how hemp oil may be able to help with certain symptoms. We’ll also talk about the number of side effects that you might encounter. In addition, we’ll go through the legality of hemp oil in Australia as well as its relationship with THC and the cannabis plant.
As with any type of treatment, it’s important to do your own research and to consult health professionals if you’re unsure about its efficacy and/or its potential side effects. Practicing caution becomes even more important if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp is a plant that falls under the flowering plant family of Cannabis sativa L. Though it’s under the same family as cannabis (marijuana), it has a different composition in terms of chemical compounds. More specifically, the hemp plant tends to have a lower concentration of the cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive component of marijuana. Because of this, the hemp plant is typically grown for medical or industrial use rather than recreational purposes.
Hemp oil is extracted by cold-pressing seeds from the hemp plant. This oil is said to have high concentrations of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and have lower amounts of saturated fat. One of the omega-6 fatty acids present is gamma-linoleic acid, which is said to be effective in reducing symptoms of joint inflammation or intestinal disorders.
It’s also important to note that hemp oil may have side effects such as dizziness, fatigue and nausea. Because of this, it’s best to see a health professional before consuming hemp oil or applying it topically.
How Does Hemp Oil Alleviate Pain?
- Reduction in inflammation
One study by a number of researchers from Ohio State University College of Medicine found that the omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seed oil may lead to reduced inflammation. As a result, inflammatory symptoms from medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis, may be alleviated by incorporating hemp oil into your diet.
This reduction in inflammation may also have beneficial effects on skin disorders like psoriasis and lichen planus, reducing the amount of pain that the user experiences. Some studies also suggest that those with acne or have eczema can also benefit from the use of hemp seed oil.
- Soothing anxiety
Multiple reviews and studies have also claimed that hemp oil can reduce anxiety in some users. One study suggests that the oil may have a calming effect on our central nervous system. This, in turn, can lead to lower anxiety and improved sleep.
An article from Harvard Health Publishing suggests that pain, anxiety and depression might be interconnected and that treating one of these issues might be beneficial in reducing other symptoms. By lowering anxiety through hemp oil consumption, you may also be able to alleviatechronic pain.
- Antibacterial properties
Another study also suggests that hemp oil may have antibacterial properties which could prevent skin, bone and heart infections that cause pain.
In particular, the study discussed how hemp oil inhibits the spread of Staphylococcus aureus, the bacterium that causes staph infections.
Is Hemp Oil Legal in Australia?
According to Australia’s Office of Drug Control, some specific hemp products may be imported if it complies with the government’s stated cannabinoid (more specifically THC) limits. They also state that only the seeds are allowed for human consumption and that the rest of the hemp plant is considered a drug.
Different states and territories within Australia may have slightly different laws and regulations around importing hemp and the allowed THC threshold. Before you purchase any hemp products, it’s important to check your local government’s website and check the legality of the item you’re looking to consume.
Additionally, it’s also essential to confirm that the distributor you’re buying from is legitimate and trustworthy.
Also Read: CBD Oil Terms You Need To Know
All of the information in the blog is not to be taken as medical advice. How you use hemp oil and your chosen dosage can significantly change how it affects your body. As such, please see a medical health professional if you’re interested in incorporating hemp oil into your diet or if you’re looking to use it to treat an existing condition.
