The world of cannabidiol (CBD) is steadily expanding and developing to show the possibilities the cannabinoid has for an array of health and wellness benefits. CBD’s healing benefits continue to grow as an ease of regulations has led to new research being conducted exploring avenues in which it can be used to treat issues ranging from anxiety to seizures. While studies such as these display the bright future of CBD, there is still confusing and conflicting evidence in regards to every so-called benefit.
And one of the hottest buzzwords in recent years within this industry is “superfood.” This term, often used loosely, is a solid marketing tactic to sell supplements of many varieties. But it may describe certain foods that have excellent nutritional profiles combined with other factors that can benefit your health.
Since CBD is just one single component of the many compounds and chemicals found within the cannabis plant, it would be a stretch to say that CBD itself is a superfood. In an isolated state, CBD certainly holds tremendous potential. The cannabis plant, however, meets many of the distinctions of other superfoods and is worth exploring in that regard.
As a food source, cannabis is more commonly known as hemp. Hemp seed is a great source of nutrition and sustenance, as a quick look at its nutritional profile exhibits. In addition to being an excellent source of protein, hemp seeds contain high levels of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids (omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, respectively) and are an exceptional source of critical nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.[1]
Hemp seeds are also a complete protein which means they possess all of the essential amino acids, a rare occurrence for plant-based proteins. Studies have indicated that the fatty acids and amino acids found in hemp seed can play a role in reducing inflammation, possessing characteristics to benefit heart disease and skin conditions.
While there is no science-based definition or classification of superfoods, hemp certainly meets the similar criteria that many other food sources currently hold under this banner. Consuming the hemp plant as part of a balanced diet may offer benefits that surpass the potential that CBD holds on its own as a source of nutrition.
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Reference
- Mihoc M, et al. Nutritive quality of Romanian hemp varieties (Cannabis sativa L.) with special focus on oil and metal contents of seeds. Chem Cent J. 2012;6(1):1-12.
