History of Hemp Hearts

Before being banned in the U.S. in 1937, the hemp plant had many uses in America. It was a staple crop used for clothing, rope, fuel and food. Our first American flag was made from hemp!

But, hemp, and the hemp heart—the seed of the hemp plant—have been used for thousands of years before coming to the U.S. Asian and Middle Eastern countries revered the hemp plant and it can still be found in Traditional Chinese Medicine as one of the most useful and health-giving foods.

Health Benefits of Hemp Hearts

About the size and shape of a sesame seed, hemp hearts are the seeds of the hemp plant with the hard outer shell removed. The inside—the hemp heart—is creamy and nutty and much softer than the sesame seed.   It is a remarkable protein and healthy fat source. And, yes, hemp hearts are also very delicious, along with being a powerhouse of nutritional benefits. 

The hemp heart is a complete and easily digestible protein, excellent for vegetarians, especially those who cannot eat or are seeking to reduce their intake of soy and wheat protein, common in the vegan diet. It's an excellent protein for athletes too. Hemp hearts contain all 20 amino acids (including the 9 essential) and offer the richest known source of polyunsaturated fats, containing a perfect 3:1 ration of Omega-6 linolenic Acid and Omega-3 linolenic acid making them beneficial to cardiovascular health and immune function. Hemp hearts also contain phytonutrients, which may strengthen immunity from diseases such as cancer.

Hemp hearts provide a desirable ratio of omega 3 to 6 fatty acids, which the body cannot produce on its own and must acquire from outside sources. Many Americans eat diets too heavy in Omega-6 fatty acids found in saturated fats such as in fast food and junk food. Hemp hearts provide Omega-3 fatty acids as well as a healthy source of Omega-6s. A deficiency or an imbalance in Omega fats can lead to serious health problems and diseases including heart attacks, hypertension, stroke, slow wound healing and increased susceptibility to common colds and flu.

Along with the great taste and health benefits of hemp hearts, making them a regular part of your diet may help with the reduction of cholesterol and blood pressure; decrease occurrences of inflammation; speed recovery time; improve circulation; and boost overall immune function and performance.

How to Use Hemp Hearts

Use hemp hearts just as you would sesame or sunflower seeds. Because of their creamy and nutty texture, they can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.

We recommend adding them to hot and cold cereals, including them in baking recipes such as breads, cookies and muffins or rolls. If you make your own granola, mix in hemp hearts after the granola comes out of the oven so that they keep their nutty, creamy texture. Sprinkle them on top of soups, stews, salads, pizza and pasta. Mix them into your yogurt or add on top of your ice cream. They're even great in your favorite smoothies.

About Author: Organic shelled hemp hearts have health benefits as a nutritious, versatile and tasty food. This organic hemp hearts superfood is high in protein and Omega fatty acids.