How Ayurveda Incorporates Hemp Into Its Holistic Approach To Healing

Hemp, a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and industrial properties. In Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, hemp has been used to treat a variety of conditions, from inflammation and pain to digestive issues and skin disorders. With the recent surge of interest in cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD), research has begun to explore the potential health benefits of hemp and its derivatives. The endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and signaling molecules found throughout the body, plays a crucial role in regulating many physiological processes, and cannabinoids such as CBD interact with this system to produce a variety of effects on the body. In this blog, we will explore the history of hemp in Ayurveda, the science behind the endocannabinoid system, the potential health benefits of hemp and cannabinoids, as well as some safety concerns to be aware of when using these compounds. If you’re looking to buy hemp oil India, this blog is a must-read. 

The Healing Powers of Hemp: What Ayurveda Says About This Ancient Herb

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been in practice for over 5,000 years. The practice involves the use of natural herbs and substances to promote overall health and well-being. One of the herbs that has gained popularity in recent years is hemp, also known as cannabis. 

Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It contains over a hundred different compounds called cannabinoids, with the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

According to Ayurveda, hemp has a long history of use for its therapeutic properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, hemp is known as “Vijaya” and is classified as a “sattvic” herb, meaning it is considered to be pure and balancing to the mind and body.

Hemp has been traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia. It is believed that hemp can help to balance the body’s natural systems, including the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating pain, mood, and immune function.

One of the main cannabinoids found in hemp is CBD, which is non-psychoactive and does not produce the “high” associated with THC. CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, making it a potentially useful herb for a variety of conditions.

In addition to its medicinal properties, hemp is also used in Ayurveda for spiritual and ritual purposes. It is believed to have a purifying effect on the mind and can help promote mental clarity and focus.

It’s worth noting that while Ayurveda recognizes the therapeutic potential of hemp, it also emphasises the importance of using herbs in a holistic and balanced way. Ayurvedic practitioners typically recommend using hemp in conjunction with other herbs and lifestyle practices to support overall health and well-being.

Ayurveda recognizes hemp as a valuable herb with therapeutic properties that can be used to support a variety of health conditions. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, the traditional use of this herb suggests that it has a place in modern holistic health practices. As with any Ayurvedic herb, it is important to use hemp in a balanced and mindful way to support overall health and well-being.

Hemp and the Endocannabinoid System

It contains over a hundred different compounds called cannabinoids, with the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). But did you know that our bodies also produce their own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids? In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between hemp and our endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors and enzymes that are found throughout the body, including in the brain, organs, and immune system. The ECS plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and homeostasis in the body. It helps regulate a wide range of functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, pain, and immune function.

Endocannabinoids are molecules that are produced by the body and act as messengers, sending signals to the receptors to help regulate various bodily functions. Receptors are proteins that are found on the surface of cells and respond to the endocannabinoids. Enzymes break down the endocannabinoids once they have served their purpose. The two most well-known cannabinoids found in hemp are THC and CBD. THC binds to the CB1 receptor in the brain and nervous system, which can result in a range of effects, including altered perception, mood changes, and decreased pain.

CBD, on the other hand, does not produce a psychoactive effect and does not bind directly to the CB1 receptor. Instead, it interacts with other receptors in the ECS, including the CB2 receptor, which is found in the immune system and is involved in regulating inflammation.

Research has shown that the interaction between hemp and the ECS may have a number of therapeutic benefits. For example, CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. It may also have neuroprotective effects and could be useful in treating conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease.

Hemp may also have potential for treating addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Studies have shown that CBD may be helpful in reducing drug-seeking behaviour in individuals addicted to opioids, cocaine, and other substances. 

CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids

Hemp contains more than 100 different cannabinoids, but the most well-known and studied are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Here are some other cannabinoids found in hemp:

• CBG (cannabigerol): CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• CBC (cannabichromene): CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• CBN (cannabinol): CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for its potential sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
• THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin): THCV is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for its potential appetite-suppressing and anticonvulsant properties.
• CBDV (cannabidivarin): CBDV is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for its potential anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Research on the potential therapeutic benefits of these other cannabinoids is still in the early stages, but they may offer new avenues for treating a range of health conditions. It’s important to note that the amount and ratio of cannabinoids in hemp can vary depending on the strain, growing conditions, and extraction method used. It’s also important to choose a reputable brand and product, and to consult with a healthcare professional before using hemp products for therapeutic purposes.

Hemp contains phytocannabinoids that can interact with the receptors in the ECS, potentially offering therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of hemp, the growing body of evidence suggests that it has a place in modern medicine. As always, it’s important to use hemp in a balanced and mindful way, in consultation with a healthcare professional. If you’re looking for CBD hemp oil India, Neet has a range of products that contain pure and organic CBD that is highly effective. 

Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Product 

Hemp oil and CBD oil are both derived from the cannabis plant, but they have different properties and uses. Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant and is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It is often used as a cooking oil or in skincare products because of its moisturizing properties. Hemp oil does not contain significant amounts of CBD or other cannabinoids. Neet offers a wide range of products that contain CBD and other cannabinoids (CBD hemp oil India).

CBD oil, on the other hand, is made from the flowers, leaves, and stems of the hemp plant and is rich in cannabinoids, including CBD. It is often used for its potential therapeutic properties, such as reducing pain, anxiety, and inflammation. CBD oil is typically consumed orally or applied topically.

So, which is better : hemp or CBD? It varies depending on your requirements. If you are looking for a source of essential fatty acids and nutrients, hemp oil may be a better choice. However, if you are looking for potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing pain or anxiety, CBD oil may be more appropriate.

It’s important to note that not all CBD oil is created equal. The quality and potency of CBD oil can vary depending on the extraction method used and the quality of the hemp plant. It’s important to choose a reputable brand and product, and to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD oil for therapeutic purposes.

Both hemp oil and CBD oil have their own unique properties and uses. It’s important to understand the differences between the two and choose the product that best fits your needs and goals.

Who should not take CBD oil?

While CBD oil is generally considered safe, there are certain groups of people who should not take it without first consulting with a healthcare professional. These include:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: The potential risks of CBD oil on developing foetuses or infants are not yet fully understood, so it’s best for pregnant or breastfeeding women to avoid it.
• Children: More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of CBD oil on children’s developing brains, so it’s best to avoid giving it to children without consulting with a healthcare professional first.
• People taking certain medications: CBD oil can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antipsychotics, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications before using CBD oil.
• People with liver disease: CBD oil can affect liver function, so people with liver disease should use it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• People with a history of addiction: While CBD oil is not considered addictive, some people with a history of addiction may be more susceptible to developing addictive behaviours with substances, including CBD oil.

It’s important to note that CBD oil may also cause side effects in some people, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea. If you experience any side effects, stop using the product and consult with a healthcare professional. While CBD oil is generally considered safe, certain groups of people should avoid taking it without consulting with a healthcare professional first. It’s important to be aware of any potential interactions with medications and to monitor for any side effects. Before you buy hemp oil India for its health benefits, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding the same to figure out precautions and the right dosage. 

Conclusion 

All in all, hemp has been used in Ayurveda for centuries, and recent research has shed light on the potential health benefits of hemp and cannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating many physiological processes, and cannabinoids such as CBD interact with this system to produce a variety of effects on the body.

While there are some safety concerns with hemp and CBD, such as potential interactions with medications and the risk of contamination with heavy metals or pesticides, overall, hemp appears to be safe and well-tolerated by most people. In fact, the World Health Organization has stated that CBD is generally well-tolerated and has a good safety profile.

Some potential health benefits of hemp and cannabinoids include pain relief, a reduction in anxiety and depression, and improvement in sleep quality. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of these compounds on the body and to identify the most effective doses and delivery methods. Overall, hemp and cannabinoids have the potential to be powerful tools for improving health and wellness, and as research continues to expand our understanding of these compounds, we may see even more applications in the future.