Chinese Herb Hemp Seed: An Ancient Remedy with Modern Benefits
- Health Lab
- Feb 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 29
Hemp seed, derived from the Cannabis sativa L. plant, has been a cornerstone of Chinese agriculture and medicine for over 6,000 years. Historically valued for its fibers used in clothing, ropes, and paper, hemp seed has also been celebrated for its medicinal properties. Known by names like hemp kernel or longevity hemp, this nutrient-rich seed is making a comeback in modern health and wellness.
What is Hemp Seed?
Hemp seeds are the small, oval kernels of the Cannabis sativa plant, measuring 4-5 mm long and 3-4 mm wide. They have a glossy, gray-green or brownish surface with a fine, net-like texture. The seed's thin, brittle shell encases a dark green seed coat and a milky-white embryo rich in oils. When chewed, hemp seeds offer a mild flavor with a slight numbing sensation on the tongue.
A Staple in Ancient Chinese Medicine
Hemp seed’s medicinal use dates back to the Shennong Bencao Jing, an ancient Chinese herbal text, which describes it as "sweet and neutral," ideal for lubricating the intestines and relieving constipation.
The Wu Pu Materia Medica echoes this, noting its effectiveness for constipation caused by dry intestines. Other texts, like the Tang Materia Medica, highlight its ability to support the spleen, stomach, and large intestine, promoting diuresis, reducing swelling, and improving blood circulation.
In traditional Chinese medicine, hemp seeds were often stir-fried and used to treat constipation, particularly in the elderly and postpartum women with blood or fluid deficiencies. Beyond digestive health, ancient records suggest hemp seeds helped with joint pain, hair loss, rheumatism, irregular menstruation, and even difficult childbirth.
Nutritional and Medicinal Properties
Hemp seeds are packed with nutrients, including:
Fatty oils (about 30%), rich in unsaturated fatty acids like oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid, which support heart and skin health.
Plant proteins, making it an excellent protein source for vegetarians.
Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, calcium, and magnesium, which aid in anti-aging and antioxidant activity.
Special amino acids, which help eliminate excess fat, cholesterol, and toxins from the body.
These components contribute to hemp seed’s ability to:
Moisten the intestines and relieve constipation.
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Promote diuresis and reduce swelling.
Strengthen the spleen and improve overall vitality.
Modern Applications
1. Relieving Constipation
Hemp seeds’ high fatty oil content stimulates intestinal movement, increases secretions, and reduces water absorption in the large intestine, making it a natural laxative. In Cantonese cuisine, hemp seed paste is a popular remedy. To make it, hemp seeds and sesame seeds are roasted until golden, blended with water into a paste, filtered, and sweetened. This soothing drink is especially helpful for the elderly and postpartum women.
2. Lowering Blood Pressure
Studies have shown hemp seed’s potential to reduce blood pressure. In one experiment, a hemp seed emulsion administered to animals lowered blood pressure by half within two hours. Human trials found that hypertensive patients taking hemp seed emulsion for four weeks saw their blood pressure drop from 140/100 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg, stabilizing at 115/80 mmHg after continued use, with no side effects.
3. Edible Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil is a nutritious edible oil loaded with unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It supports cardiovascular health, fights oxidative stress, and promotes healthy skin. The oil’s unique amino acids help flush out toxins, cholesterol, and excess fat, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
4. Traditional Hemp Seed Paste Dessert
For a nourishing treat, hemp seed paste is made by grinding roasted hemp seeds with sesame seeds, almonds, and rock sugar. This creamy dessert not only relieves constipation but also provides a nutrient boost, perfect for those needing gentle digestive support.
Simple Hemp Seed Paste Recipe
Ingredients:
1/2 cup hemp seeds
1/4 cup sesame seeds
2 tbsp almonds (optional, for extra flavor)
2-3 tbsp rock sugar (or honey, to taste)
1 cup water
Instructions:
Toast the Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the hemp seeds and sesame seeds for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Let cool slightly.
Blend: Add the toasted hemp seeds, sesame seeds, almonds (if using), and rock sugar to a blender. Pour in the water and blend until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
Strain (Optional): For a smoother texture, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to remove any residue.
Serve: Pour the paste into a bowl or cup. Adjust sweetness if needed. Serve warm or chilled as a soothing drink or dessert.
Notes:
Consume in moderation (1-2 tbsp per serving) to avoid side effects.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
This hemp seed paste is great for relieving constipation and boosting nutrition, especially for the elderly or postpartum women.
Precautions and Side Effects
While hemp seed is highly beneficial, it should be consumed in moderation. Overconsumption (more than 50 grams) can lead to poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, numbness, or even convulsions within 1-2 hours. To stay safe:
Stick to recommended doses.
Avoid combining hemp seed with oysters, white mulberry, or Poria cocos.
Use caution if you have spleen or kidney deficiencies, loose stools, or conditions like impotence or leukorrhea.
Excessive intake may also harm blood vessels or cause energy depletion, particularly in women.
Conclusion
Hemp seed is a time-honored remedy with a remarkable range of benefits, from easing constipation to supporting heart health. Its rich nutritional profile and versatile applications in traditional Chinese medicine, food, and modern wellness products highlight its enduring value. By using hemp seed thoughtfully and in moderation, you can tap into its ancient wisdom for a healthier, more balanced life.
Chinese Name | 火麻仁 |
Chinese Pinyin | Huomaren |
English Name | Hemp Fruit |
Latin Pharmaceutical Name | Cannabis Fructus |
Category | Fruits and seeds |
Origin | The dried mature fruit of Cannabis sativa L.(Moraceae) |
Production Regions | Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Jilin, Sichuan, Gansu, Yunnan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang. |
Macroscopic Features | Oval-round shape, 4~5.5mm long, 2.5~4mm diameter. Externally grayish-green or grayish-yellow, with slightly thin white or brown net-like lines, ridges on the two edges, apex is slightly pointed; base has one round stem scar. Fruit skin is thin and brittle, easily broken. Seed coat is green, with 2 cotyledons, milky-white, oily. faint odor, mild taste. |
Quality Requirements | Superior medicinal material has large, full kernel. |
Properties | Sweet; neutral. |
Functions | Moistens the intestine, frees stools. Apply to body fluid deficiency due to hematopenia, constipation induced by dryness of the intestine. |
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