Hemp seed has very interesting properties both in cosmetics and in dietetics. This dual use is explained by its richness in essential fatty acids, essential to the body and provided only by food, as well as by its natural concentration in antioxidants and vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, D and E Not psychotropic unlike the well-known plant, this oil is a treasure for your skin, your hair and your health in general. Latin name: Cannabis sativa L. Part used: seed (first cold pressing).

This article was updated on 06/10/2023

Main properties

  • regenerating, revitalizing, anti-aging :

    its rich content of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, makes this oil an excellent anti-aging remedy. This property, combined with that of skin repair, allows this oil to effectively fight against the signs of skin aging. It is also very effective in cases of chapped hands for example.

  • softening, moisturizing :

    hemp oil has a composition similar to that of skin lipids, so it quickly penetrates the skin for a hydrating and nourishing effect. The intake of omega-3, 6 and 9 also contributes to good elasticity of the skin. Hemp oil is also used in hair care to deeply nourish dry hair and obtain shiny and supple hair.

  • hypocholesterolemic, cardiovascular protector :

    hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6, substances involved in the balance of the cardiovascular system. The right ratio of the contents of these two types of fatty acids in the oil corresponds to ideal proportions for the body.

  • anti-inflammatory :

    fatty acids, particularly omega-3, contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of Hemp oil. They thus help soothe skin irritations, for example.

  • calming, soothing :

    hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6, fatty acids which play a major role in the skin barrier function. They have an anti-erythema effect which therefore helps to calm and soothe redness.

Characteristics and composition

Cosmetic features
  • Skin type: dry, irritated, all skin types, mature, dull, sensitive.
  • Hair type: dry, brittle.
Organoleptic characteristics
  • Appearance: clear fluid liquid
  • Color: yellow to green
  • Odor: characteristic, discreet, reminiscent of hay, reminiscent of grass.
  • Touch: dry.
  • Taste: grassy, ​​reminiscent of nuts, hints of hazelnut.
Characteristics for formulation
  • Unsaponifiable and active ingredients: vitamin E, polyphenols, phytosterols, tocopherols.
  • Comedogenicity index: 0 (=non-comedogenic)
  • Average saponification index: 192
  • Oxidation stability: good
  • High temperature stability: sensitive
  • Inci name: cannabis sativa seed oil
Fatty acid composition
  • palmitic acid (AGS): 5 to 12%
  • palmitoleic acid (omega 7 MUFA): ≤ 1%
  • stearic acid (SFA): 1 to 4%
  • oleic acid (omega 9 MUFA): 10 to 16%
  • linoleic acid (omega 6 PUFA): 45 to 65%
  • alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3 PUFA): 14 to 30%
  • arachidic acid (AGS): ≤ 2%
  • eicosenoic acid (omega 9 MUFA): ≤ 1%
  • gamma-linolenic acid (omega 6 PUFA): 2 to 6%
  • stearidonic acid: ≤ 2%
Physical characteristics
  • Density at 20°C: 0.920 to 0.940
  • Flash point: 360
  • Peroxide value: 10
  • Acid number: 4,000
  • Iodine index: 141 to 166
Botanical characteristics
  • Botanical family: Cannabaceae
  • Country of origin: Metropolitan France.
  • Distilled part: seeds
  • Obtaining process: first cold pressing
  • Latin name: Cannabis sativa L.

Precautions for use

Authorized ways of use

Dermal Dermal
Oral route Oral route

Authorized users

Adults and Teenagers Adults and Teenagers
Children under 6 years old Children under 6 years old
Pregnant & breastfeeding women Pregnant & breastfeeding women
Babies under 3 years old Babies under 3 years old

Storage

Store preferably in a cool place, away from light and heat.

Nutritional benefits

Coming from its seed, a rich source of vegetable proteins and essential fatty acids, Hemp vegetable oil is increasingly used for its nutritional benefits. To promote a good nutritional balance, ANSES (National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety) has established food consumption benchmarks. Hemp vegetable oil is naturally composed of a good proportion and a good ratio of omega 6/omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) according to ANSES. They participate in the proper functioning of the body and are particularly known for their preventive role in the appearance of cardiovascular diseases, cholesterol, diabetes, obesity or other metabolic syndrome.

In addition to its richness in essential fatty acids, hemp oil contains vitamin E and phytosterols, natural antioxidants. Their interests? Fight against free radicals from peroxidized lipids by neutralizing them. This antioxidant property confers a protective role on cell membranes and blood vessel walls. There is thus an interest in fighting against a number of cardiovascular pathologies (atherosclerosis, cholesterol, etc.).

  • Usage tips :

    1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

    In the kitchen, we avoid heating it. Omega-3s are fragile and unstable when cooked. This is why we prefer to use Hemp oil only as a seasoning. Its slight walnut/hazelnut taste will be perfect to accompany your salads, your fish or even in a soup.

  • Other complementary vegetable oils:

     the oils of Linen or Perilla are very interesting in nutrition because they are particularly rich in omega-3. They help balance the omega-3/omega-6 ratio. ANSES recommends a ratio of 1 to 4, but at present, it seems that this ratio is more like 1 omega-3 to 20 omega-6.

In case of Wrinkles, Mature skin

Efficiency: +++

From the age of 25, the production of collagen, a protein which helps structure our skin (and in particular the face), is revised downwards. It is then that we see slight lines and small folds appear, in the middle of the eyebrows, then on the forehead, at the corners of the eyes, etc. This decreased collagen production, but also elastin is responsible for the loss of elasticity of the skin.

Consisting mainly offatty acids, Hemp oil will help the skin to regenerate and produce collagen. In addition, its rich composition in vitamins, notably in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, will make this oil an excellent anti-aging remedy. Indeed, by fighting free radicals, one of the major causes of tissue aging, Hemp oil will strengthen its action against wrinkles and aging skin.

  • Application advice :

    massage a few drops of Hemp oil morning and evening on your skin. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    against wrinkles, you can add 1 drop ofgeranium Rosat essential oil to your Hemp oil (4 drops) to increase its effectiveness.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is very useful in cases of aging skin thanks to its rich composition in antioxidants. Other vegetable oils can also be used in this case such as Rosehip, THE Apricot kernels or even the Prickly Pear Seeds.

In case of Dry skin

Efficiency: +++

There skin dry and dehydrated requires special care. This treatment can be provided by fatty acids, natural components of our sebum but also of our cell membranes. Hemp vegetable oil helps rebuild the skin's lipid film. Several studies show the benefit of adding hemp oil to an emulsion to moisturize the skin. Its benefit is visible at a low percentage of only 3% vegetable oil.

  • Application advice :

    massage a few drops of Hemp oil morning and evening on your skin as a massage to make the oil penetrate well.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is very interesting for dry skin but the Shea Butter, THE Wheat germ, l'Lawyer or even the Hazelnut are also very nourishing in this case.

In case of'Eczema, Psoriasis, Seborrheic dermatitis

Efficiency: +++

The rich composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids (around 85 to 90%) of Hemp oil has been the subject of a study on the treatment of dermatological problems, in particular to treat eczema. This study based on 20 subjects reveals the benefit of taking 30 mL of Hemp oil orally over 2 months to relieve both itching and dryness of the skin compared to classic Olive oil. Other studies also report its benefit for other skin problems such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Application advice :

    after gently cleansing your skin, massage a few drops of Hemp vegetable oil morning and evening onto the affected areas. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    add 3 drops ofgeranium Rosat essential oil in 1 tablespoon of Hemp oil in case of inflammation and 3 drops oftea Tree essential oil in case of infection (bacterial, mycotic).

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is useful for soothing atopic skin, but other vegetable oils can also be very useful in cases of skin problems and inflammation: Borage and the Nigella.

In case of Rosacea, Redness

Efficiency: +++

Hemp oil, rich in omega-3 and vitamin E, helps soothe redness and inflammation. In addition, its polyphenol content acts on circulatory problems linked to rosacea. 

  • Application advice :

    morning and evening massage a few drops of Hemp vegetable oil onto the affected areas. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    against rosacea, you can add 3 drops ofitalian Helichrysum essential oil to your tablespoon of Hemp oil to increase its effectiveness.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is useful for soothing skin marks but other vegetable oils can also be very useful in cases of redness and rosacea problems: Calophyll Inophyl, THE Safflower or even the Calendula.

In case of Beard (strengthen), Beard (aftershave)

Efficiency: +++

Concerning the beard, just like the hair, Hemp oil and its composition justify its benefits for nourishing and hydrating the beard while taking care of the skin just below the beard.

  • Application advice :

    directly apply a few drops of Hemp vegetable oil after shaving the beard. Leave on for a few minutes for intense hydration. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    it is advisable to take care of your beard by combining Hemp oil with other vegetable oils. THE Shea Butter nourishes intensely. L'castor vegetable oil strengthens the hair after it has been nourished. Apply for a few minutes, remove the excess with a towel.

Against the Brittle nails

Efficiency: +++

Here again, the richness of Hemp vegetable oil in fatty acids helps nourish the nail in depth. For thicker, stronger and shiny nails, the vitamins in Hemp oil will be particularly interesting. Your nails will be less soft and less brittle. On the one hand, fatty acids have the capacity to regenerate skin tissue but also on the other hand to stimulate the creation of the nail by promoting the keratin production.

  • Application advice :

    directly apply a few drops of Hemp vegetable oil to your nails and massage. A greasy film will remain on your nails for intense hydration.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    by combining Hemp vegetable oil with essential oils, the fortifying power will only be potentiated. Withlemon essential oil for example, find perfectly healthy nails, whiter than ever.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is interesting for nourishing the nails but the best vegetable oil for strengthening and strengthening the nails is Castor.

In case of Irritated skin, Sensitive skin

Efficiency: +++

A skin sensitive or irritated skin is fragile, thin and often subject to discomfort. Faced with physical attacks (sun, wind, pollution, etc.) or chemical attacks (detergents), it becomes reactive with the appearance of redness. Hemp vegetable oil, rich in omega-3 and omega-6, regenerates the skin barrier and soothes skin inflammation.

  • Application advice :

    massage a few drops of Hemp oil morning and evening on your skin. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    hemp oil is very interesting for sensitive and irritated skin but the Apricot kernels, l'Almond or even the Shea Butter are also very soothing in this case.

In case of Dry hair, Brittle hair

Efficiency: ++

In the same way as for the skin, Hemp oil helps to deeply nourish the hair thanks to its composition of fatty acids, and not just any fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and 6. In addition, the smell of Hemp oil is quite neutral and its fluid and light texture will make it a very pleasant oil to use. In care, Hemp oil helps to fill the gaps to hydrate and strengthen hair in depth. The vitamins that compose it will intensify the strengthening power of Hemp oil, your hair will be nourished and strengthened, which will slow down its loss. Another positive point of Hemp oil is its composition of vitamins such as E and B. Their contribution is very important to promote hair growth of which keratin is an essential element. For her good development, she has special needs including her vitamins.

  • Application advice :

    apply a few drops of Hemp vegetable oil directly to your hair, focusing on the ends and lengths. Leave on for a few minutes for intense hydration. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    take care of your dry and brittle hair by combining hemp oil with other vegetable and essential oils. THE Shea Butter to nourish the hair fiber. L'castor vegetable oil to limit hair loss and the essential oil of Fine Lavender against dry scalp! Apply before your shampoo for 3 to 5 minutes.

Against theAcne, Acne skin

Efficiency: ++

Hemp vegetable oil does not leave a greasy film on the skin and has the advantage of being non-comedogenic. It can be useful for acne and nourishes acne-prone skin, without clogging the pores. In addition, the good omega-6/omega-3 balance of Hemp oil has anti-erythema effects and thus helps soothe redness in cases of rosacea acne.

  • Application advice :

    massage a few drops of Hemp oil morning and evening on your skin. Orally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp oil will be used to cover the recommended daily intake of omega-6 and 3.

  • Complementary essential oil(s) :

    In case of acne, addtea Tree essential oil to fight bacterial infections. 

  • Other suitable vegetable oils :

    Hemp oil is interesting but other vegetable oils are more relevant such as Jojoba, there Nigella where the Neem. 

Hemp, CBD, Cannabis, what?

Hemp and Cannabis Oil

The reputation of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is very often linked to its relaxing, even hallucinogenic, powers. This is why it is important to distinguish between hemp grown in France for industrial use and recreational hemp, better known as cannabis. 

  • THE industrial hemp does not contain any or very little (less than 0.2%) psychotropic substance: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in comparison with cannabis. Industrial hemp is used in many fields, in construction, textiles, food, cosmetics, etc. No worries, therefore, since the plots of industrial hemp producers are subject to particularly strict controls in order to verify that the crops actually come from varieties low in THC. In our case, our producer works with the USO 31 and FEDORA 17 varieties, which comply with current regulations. 

  • THE recreational hemp, better known as cannabis, is very rich in resin in which this famous THC molecule is found. This resin covers the leaves and flowers of the plant. The latter is mainly exploited for its psychotropic properties. THC is present at approximately 5% in recreational hemp. In the body, THC acts on the nervous system. It binds to specific receptors called CB1 and CB2, thus altering certain functionalities of our neurons. Among other things, cannabinoids like THC, once fixed on their receptors, prevent proper connection of neurons and impair memory, concentration, cause learning disabilities, coordination problems, reduce fertility, etc.

Hemp Oil and CBD Oil: what is the difference?

Hemp oil and CBD oil are two very different products. Although they both come from varieties of industrial hemp low in THC (Cannabis sativa L.), they come from distinct plant parts: 

  • L'hemp vegetable oil comes from a first cold pressing of the seeds. It is rather used for its nutritional benefits. It is rich in nutrients, unsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and 6), vitamin E in particular, which make it an ally of choice in cooking and even in cosmetics. 
  • L'cBD oil comes from an extraction of the flowers. CBD stands for cannabidiol, it is a cannabinoid known for its beneficial effects on both mental and physical well-being. 

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Bibliography

Publication: Andreassi, M., Salvini, C., & Marenna, P. (2018). 1068 Formulation and evaluation of topical products with Cannabis Sativa oil. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 138(5), S181.

Publication: Rodriguez-Leyva, D., & Pierce, G.N. (2010). The cardiac and haemostatic effects of dietary hempseed. Nutrition & metabolism, 7(1), 32.

Publication: Tabassum, N., & Hamdani, M. (2014). Plants used to treat skin diseases. Pharmacognosy reviews, 8(15), 52.

Publication: Callaway, J., Schwab, U., Harvima, I., Halonen, P., Mykkänen, O., Hyvönen, P., & Järvinen, T. (2005). Efficacy of dietary hempseed oil in patients with atopic dermatitis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 16(2), 87-94.

Publication: Montserrat-de la Paz, S., Marín-Aguilar, F., García-Gimenez, MD, & Fernández-Arche, MA (2014). Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seed oil: analytical and phytochemical characterization of the unsaponifiable fraction. Journal of agricultural and food chemist

Publication: Porto, CD, Decorti, D., & Natolino, A. (2015). Potential oil yield, fatty acid composition, and oxidation stability of the hempseed oil from four Cannabis sativa L. cultivars. Journal of dietary supplements, 12(1), 1-10.

Work : de la Charie, T. (2019). Treat yourself with essential oils. Why and how does it work? Editions du Rocher.

Website : ANSES. Updating PNNS benchmarks: revision of food consumption benchmarks. Collective expert report. 2016.

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