Description
Hemp seed oil is derived from the seeds of the plant Cannabis sativa. Hemp seed oil is a relatively rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and is one of the few plant seed oils containing more than small amounts of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). ALA concentrations in hemp seed oil range from approximately 15% to 25%. GLA concentration ranges from approximately 1% to 6%. The most abundant fatty acid in hemp seed oil is linoleic acid, which comprises approximately 50% to 70% of the fatty acid content.
Hemp seed and hemp seed oil normally do not contain significant quantities of tetrahydrocannabinol or any of the other psychoactive substances produced by Cannabis sativa. However, trace amounts of these substances have been reported in some batches of the oil. This is most likely due to contamination of the seed by adherent resin or other plant residues.
ALA, GLA, linoleic acid and all fatty acids in hemp seed oil are present in the form of triglycerides or neutral fats.
Actions & Pharmacology
Actions
Hemp seed oil has putative antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory activities.
Mechanism of Action
Antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory activities have not been demonstrated with hemp seed oil. Therefore, any proposed mechanism of actions is entirely speculative. Hemp seed oil is relatively rich in ALA, which may be metabolized to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). EPA is a precursor of the anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic eicosanoids. ALA metabolites may also inhibit the production of some pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, as well as some of the pro-inflammatory cytokines.
GLA is a precursor in the synthesis of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), which inhibits platelet aggregation and has vasodilatory activity.
Pharmacokinetics
There are no reported pharmacokinetic studies of hemp seed oil. However, much is known about the physiology and biochemistry of edible oils, and certain assumptions can be made. ALA- and GLA-laden triglycerides in hemp seed oil are probably absorbed from the small intestine, aided by bile salts. During the process, there is some deacylation of the fatty acids of the triglycerides. Reacylation takes place within the mucosal cells of the small intestine, and the ALA- and GLA-laden triglycerides enter the lymph system in the form of chylomicrons. ALA- and GLA-laden chylomicrons are transported from the lymph into the blood, where ALA and GLA are then carried in lipid particles to the various cells of the body. They then get metabolized to EPA, PGE1 and various eicosanoids.
Indications & Usage
It has been claimed that hemp seed oil inhibits platelet aggregation, favorably affects lipids and reduces the risk of heart attack. Other claims include usefulness in arthritis, autoimmune disorders and inflammation, in general. There is no research that supports any of these claims.
Overdosage
There are no reports of hemp seed overdosage.
Dosage
Hemp seed oil comes in capsules and bottles of oil. The ALA content ranges from 15 to 25%. Three to 4 grams of ALA is approximately equivalent to the 0.3 grams, which one would derive from a fish-rich diet. Since hemp seed oil is easily oxidized, it is important that it contain an antioxidant, such as vitamin E.
Literature
Costantino A, Schwartz RH, Kaplan P. Hemp oil ingestion causes positive urine tests for delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid. J Anal Toxicol. 1997; 21:482-485.Deferne J-D, Pate DW. Hemp seed oil: a source of valuable essential fatty acids. J Int Hemp Assoc. 1996; 3:4-7.Lehman T, Sager F, Brenneisen R. Excretion of cannabinoids in urine after ingestion of cannabis seed oil. J Anal Toxicol. 1997; 21:373-375.Rose DP. Effects of dietary fatty acids on breast and prostate cancers: evidence from in vitro experiments and animal studies. Am J Clin Nutr. 1997; 66:1513S-1522S.Rose DP, Connolly JM. Effects of fatty acids and eicosanoid synthesis inhibitors in the growth of two human prostate cancer cell lines. Prostate. 1991; 18:243-254.Rose DP, Connolly JM. Stimulation of growth of human breast cancer cell lines in culture by linoleic acid. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1989; 164:277-283.Struempler RE, Nelson G, Urry FM. A positive cannabinoids workplace drug test following the ingestion of commercially available hemp seed oil. J Anal Toxicol. 1997; 21:283-285.Research & Summary
There is no published research showing benefit (or lack of benefit) from the use of hemp seed oil. To the extent that it is a source of alpha-linolenic acid, as well as gamma-linolenic acid, it may have some of the benefits of those substances.
Contraindications, Precautions & Adverse Reactions
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to a hemp seed oil-containing product.
Precautions
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid supplemental hemp seed oil. Because of possible antithrombotic activity of hemp seed oil, those with hemophilia and those taking warfarin should be cautious. Likewise, hemp seed oil should be halted in those having surgical procedures. Hemp seed oil is abundant in linoleic acid. Some laboratory studies suggest linoleic acid may stimulate the growth of prostate cancer and breast cancer cells. It is unclear if this has relevance to those with prostate or breast cancer. However, to be on the safe side, those with prostate or breast cancer should be cautious about using this substance. Cannabinoids have been found in certain batches of hemp seed oil.
Adverse Reactions
Hemp seed oil may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and diarrhea.
Interactions
Drugs
Interactions may occur between hemp seed oil, ALA and its metabolites, and aspirin and other NSAIDs. Such interactions, if they were to occur, might be manifested by nosebleeds and increased susceptibility to bruising. If this occurs, consideration should be given to lowering or stopping intake. Such interaction may also occur between hemp seed oil and warfarin.
Nutritional Supplements
Interactions may occur if hemp seed oil is used with such nutritional supplements as fish oils, which have possible antithrombotic activity.
Herbs
Interactions may occur between hemp seed oil, ALA and its metabolites, and such herbs as garlic (Allium sativum) and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba). Such interactions might be manifested by nosebleeds and easy bruising.
