By Dhrishti Brahmania*
Hemp is known as one of the 50 fundamental herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The plant’s healing powers are so revered, that they even have a Goddess of Health and Vitality named after it. She is known throughout China, Japan, and Korea as Ma (hemp) Gu.
It’s no wonder this amazing plant is a boon not only to humans but also to our amazing furries.
But What Exactly Is Hemp Seed Oil?
Hemp Seed oil is extracted by cold pressing the seeds of Cannabis Sativa plant. It contains no THC (psychoactive compound found in Marijuana) and is jam-packed with essential fatty acids and nutrients.
Some pet owners are turned off by the word ‘hemp,’ mistakenly assuming that it has psychoactive effects and wouldn’t be safe for their pet. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Hemp seed oil is perfectly safe and can improve your dog’s health and wellness in many ways:
Supports the Immune System
The key to hemp seed oil’s beneficial health properties lies in its perfect balance of essential fatty acids. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which helps in regulating inflammatory responses, blood pressure, and much more. Since your dog’s body doesn’t manufacture these fatty acids naturally, he or she must receive them through supplements.
It also contains a crucial omega-6 fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA, which is vital for various functions in your dog’s body. Evidence indicates that proper GLA levels in the diet may help prevent serious and common health problems.
Reduces Inflammation
Hemp seed oil acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent because of its balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Inflammation is a natural response by the body, and your dog should have some level of inflammation in response to injuries, infections, allergies, and other ailments.
But inflammation can quickly get out of hand — that’s where essential fatty acids come in. Omega-6 encourages inflammation, while omega-3 does the opposite. It’s this balance that is essential for a proper and healthy inflammatory response, and hemp seed oil may help regulate this.
Support Skin and Coat Health
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also beneficial for your dog’s skin. The perfect ratio of Omega 3 to 6 helps in balancing out hormonal health leading to good skin and hair health. It provides adequate nutritional benefits to reduce shedding and its anti-inflammatory benefits reduce itching and various forms of dermatitis.
Helps Manage Weight and Improves Cardiac Health
GLA tends to increase energy levels in dogs, so they’re more likely to stay active and avoid obesity. Plus, GLA helps metabolism to stay in high-gear and burn more fat.
Reduces Arthritic Pain
Its anti-inflammatory benefits reduce inflammation in joints, which causes arthritis. It reduces the severity of the pain and helps with better mobility.
You can help support your dog’s immunity, inflammatory response pathways, support joint discomfort, and help keep your dog active by giving them Happy Puppy Organics Hemp Seed Oil.
*Author is the Founder of Happy Puppy Organics – a brand of organic grooming products for pets.