HEMP ESSENTIAL OIL

Cannabis sativa

Despite being cast as a counter-culture renegade during the latter part of the last century, hemp has made a remarkable come-back. It is now touted as a miracle plant and found its way into every conceivable industry. Hemp is hip. 

But one product is totally novel: Hemp Essential Oil.

The essential oil is distilled from the stem, flower clusters and upper leaves of hemp captures the pure aroma. It is not the same as the widely popularised therapeutic CBD oil used for medicinal purposes. Nor is it in any way similar to hemp seed oil now found on supermarket shelves. The essential oil contains neither cannabinol nor cannabinoids. Nor does it contain essential fatty acids, like the oil that is pressed from the seeds. Cannabinol and cannabinoids are not water-soluble and can therefore not be captured by steam distillation. For some time now, it has been used as a flavouring agent and component of cosmetics. But now, the essential oil is also available to aromatherapists, adding another unique fragrance to their palette. Its distinctive smell is something you either love or hate. But the therapeutic properties are remarkable, and you'll be surprised how well it blends with other oils.

Traditional
While the essential oil does not contain the cannabinol responsible for the therapeutic effects of CBD oil, it has its own remarkable properties. The essential oil is rich in various terpenes shown to have anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiviral properties. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect when added to massage oil or skincare products. It soothes inflammatory conditions, tension and cramps. Hemp essential oil is also used for relaxation and can alleviate stress-related symptoms such as sleeplessness or tension headaches.

Magical
Although Hemp Essential oil does not contain THC and is not psychoactive, its scent is like a secret doorway to the magical 'otherworld'. Use it to attune to nature spirits, pucks and pixies. It makes the mind more perceptive to flighty beings that are usually filtered out. Hemp essential oil is a perfect companion to enhance mindfulness practice in nature.

Scent
The fragrance of hemp oil is hard to describe as it merges opposites in a way no other oil does. There is a bright, lemony scent that jumps out first, with an herbaceous green middle note and musky earthiness all rolled into one. Note that the scent changes to something more reminiscent of Vetivert as it dries down.

The fragrance blends well with many other oils: Basil, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Citronella, Juniper Berry, Tonka Bean, Lemongrass, Labdanum, Verbena, Clary Sage, Cypress, Vetivert, Fir, Pine, Lavender.

Synonyms
Cannabis indica, Indian hemp

Country of origin
UK