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Hemp Milk – Isn’t That Illegal?!
Hemp milk? How do you milk a hemp plant? Isn’t that illegal? Won’t I get high? Is it healthy? These are just some of the common questions surrounding the magical world of hemp milk. Let’s get the straight dope, (ops, wrong word), let’s talk about what hemp milk is and isn’t along with all the great benefits you are missing out on if you aren’t drinking it.
What exactly is hemp milk?
A more accurate description of this product would be hemp seed milk. Of course because you can’t actually “milk” a hemp plant, this product is made from crushing or grinding hemp seeds, then mixing them with water. The result is a creamy liquid with a slightly nutty flavor that many people say looks and feels like skim milk and tastes similar to almond milk.
Photo credit: bigstock
Isn’t hemp illegal?
The United States is just about the only country that doesn’t allow hemp to be grown, true, but it is ok to buy dried, imported seeds. (Go figure) You will find an assortment of seeds in your local health food store and they can give you more information on which brands taste best when made into milk. You can also buy hemp milk already made and refrigerated in most health food type markets. Find out food procedures illegal in Europe but practised in the USA.
Won’t I (or my kids) get high?
No, hemp seed contains just trace amounts of THC, if any, and that’s the substance in marijuana that gives you that high feeling. Since you aren’t eating, or drinking, the “drug” part of the plant, you can’t get high. However, don’t tell your kids that and they may start drinking it without you nagging them!
Is it healthy?
Hemp milk is much healthier for the body than animal milk and it is well tolerated. Those who are lactose intolerant will have no problem with hemp milk. This magical drink is loaded with omega 6 and omega 3 essential fatty acids that help reduce cholesterol. It is also loaded with vitamins and minerals such as:
- Magnesium
- Ascorbic acid
- Beta-carotene
- Calcium
- Fiber
- Iron
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Thiamin
It also contains 10 essential amino acids which make it an excellent form of protein.
Other benefits
Due to the vast number of vitamins, minerals, and protein found in hemp milk, the body responds in kind with a stronger immune system, improved circulation, and benefits to the skin and hair (read also about 8 ways to get great skin), and cholesterol lowering omega fatty acids can mean a healthy heart.
For those who cannot tolerate animal milk or dairy products or those who choose not to consume animal milk for their own reasons and for those who are simply looking for a healthy alternative to cow or animal milk, hemp milk is your magical miracle drink!
Although prepackaged hemp milk is readily available for sale, you don’t need to buy it to enjoy the benefits. Try making your own! Buy shelled hemp seeds from your local organic or health food store. Mix 1 cup of seeds with 5 or 6 cups of purified water. Mix well in the blender, then taste. If you wish you can add a bit of raw honey or agave nectar to taste and blend again. Once you are satisfied with its flavor and consistency, strain through cheesecloth and there you have it! Homemade hemp milk. Shake well before drinking. This should keep well in the refrigerator for about 4 days.
Don’t throw out the larger seed particles that you strained out of your hemp milk. Collect them and rinse with water. Set out to dry, and then use them as a facial or body scrub. If they seem too harsh for your skin, you can always use them in your compost pile.
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begotnot
Apr 20, 2014 at 2:43 am
I tried some hemp milk, but it was so hard to light it up in the bowl.
WhiteCrow
May 2, 2014 at 10:51 pm
Very funny. Very informative article, though. I’m going to try some