What are hemp hearts? Hemp hearts are gaining popularity in India's wellness market, but many wonder what they are and how to use them. These nutritious seeds have been part of Indian tradition for centuries, and they're now making a comeback in modern kitchens. Whether you're curious about hemp products in India, wondering what hemp seeds are called in Hindi, or exploring hemp seed oil and medical hemp options, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
- What Are Hemp Hearts?
- What Are Hemp Seeds Called in Hindi?
- Hemp Products Available in India
- Hemp Products in India: Legal Status and Availability
- Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Hearts
- How to Use Hemp Hearts in Indian Cooking
- Food Hemp vs. Medical Hemp
- Hemp Hearts Myth Busters
- Frequently Asked Questions
- About Qurist
What Are Hemp Hearts? Understanding These Nutritious Seeds
Hemp hearts are shelled hemp seeds. When you remove the crunchy outer shell from hemp seeds, you get the soft, nutty-tasting kernel inside. This is the hemp heart.
These small seeds come from the Cannabis sativa plant but contain no THC, making them safe and legal as food. They're purely nutritional, with no psychoactive effects, and are non-viable.
Many people ask, "what are hemp hearts?" thinking they might be related to medical cannabis, but hemp hearts are simply a nutritious food ingredient—similar to chia seeds or flaxseeds—with exceptional protein and healthy fat content.
What Are Hemp Seeds Called in Hindi?
Hemp seeds are known as 'bhang ke beej' (भांग के बीज) in Hindi. In different parts of India, you might also hear them referred to as:
- Bhang ke beej (भांग के बीज) - Most common Hindi name
- Bhaang seeds - Anglicized version
- Industrial hemp seeds - Technical term used in food industry
Understanding what hemp seeds are called in Hindi helps when shopping at local markets or discussing hemp products with vendors across India.
Hemp Products Available in India: Complete List
The hemp products in India market has expanded significantly in recent years. Here's what's available:
1. Hemp Hearts (Shelled Hemp Seeds)
Hemp hearts are shelled seeds used in cooking and as toppings. They're the most popular hemp food product, offering maximum nutrition with a soft texture perfect for adding to any dish.
2. Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil is cold-pressed oil extracted from hemp seeds, used in cooking or as a dietary supplement. This nutritious oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an ideal ratio for human health. Hemp seed oil can be used for salad dressings, smoothies, or taken directly as a supplement.
3. Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp protein powder provides plant-based protein from ground hemp seeds. It's an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking for complete protein sources.
4. Hemp Milk
Hemp milk is a dairy alternative made from blending hemp hearts with water. It's naturally creamy, nut-free, and perfect for those with dairy or nut allergies.
5. Hemp Flour
Hemp flour can be used in baking to add nutrition to breads, rotis, and other baked goods. It's high in fiber and protein.
6. Medical Hemp Products
Medical hemp products include CBD oils, tinctures, and capsules. These are different from food hemp products as they're used for wellness purposes rather than nutrition. Learn more about hemp oil benefits.
Hemp Products in India: Legal Status and Availability
Are hemp products legal in India? Yes! FSSAI has approved hemp seeds, hemp seed oil, and other hemp food ingredients in India, making them legal to buy and consume. This approval has opened up the market for various hemp products in India.
You can find hemp products in:
- Health food stores in major cities
- Organic markets and wellness centers
- Online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and specialty health stores
- Local supermarkets in urban areas
When buying hemp products in India, look for:
- FSSAI certification
- Organic certification
- Clear labelling with nutritional information
- Brands that provide quality testing information
- Proper packaging to maintain freshness
Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Hearts
Hemp hearts provide concentrated nutrition in small servings. Here's what makes them a superfood:
1. Complete Protein Source
Three tablespoons of hemp hearts provide about 10 grams of complete protein with all essential amino acids—rare for plant-based sources.
2. Healthy Fatty Acids
They're rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a 3:1 ratio that supports heart health, brain function, and reduces inflammation.
3. Essential Minerals
Hemp hearts serve as a good source of minerals including:
- Magnesium (supports muscle and nerve function)
- Iron (prevents anemia)
- Zinc (boosts immunity)
- Phosphorus (strengthens bones)
4. Vitamin E and Antioxidants
Hemp hearts contain vitamin E, which provides antioxidant protection for cells and supports skin health.
How to Use Hemp Hearts in Indian Cooking
Hemp hearts are incredibly easy to incorporate into daily Indian meals:
Traditional Indian Dishes
- In Dal: Mix 2 tablespoons of hemp hearts into dal for added protein
- With Rice: Sprinkle on pulao or biryani for a nutty crunch
- In Raita: Add to cucumber raita for extra nutrition
- With Parathas: Mix into dough or use as a filling
- In Chutney: Blend with coconut or mint chutney
Modern Fusion Ideas
- Sprinkle on yogurt, oatmeal, or salads
- Blend into smoothies for added protein
- Add to baking recipes (muffins, cookies, bread)
- Use as a coating for vegetables or paneer before frying
- Top on breakfast bowls or acai bowls
Their mild, nutty flavour works well in both sweet and savoury dishes. The best part about hemp hearts? You don't need to cook them—just add them raw to any dish.
Food Hemp vs. Medical Hemp: Understanding the Difference
There's often confusion between food hemp products and medical hemp products. Here's the clear difference:
Food Hemp Products (Nutritional Use)
Food hemp products like hemp hearts, hemp seed oil, and hemp protein come from hemp seeds. They:
- Provide nutrition (protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals)
- Contain minimal cannabinoids (less than 0.3% THC)
- Are used like any other nutritious food ingredient
- Are FSSAI approved for consumption in India
- Have no psychoactive effects
Medical Hemp Products (Wellness Use)
Medical hemp products include CBD oils, tinctures, capsules, and extracts made from hemp leaves or flowers. They:
- Contain higher cannabinoid levels (CBD, CBG, etc.)
- Are used for specific wellness purposes (pain relief, sleep, anxiety)
- Require AYUSH licensing in India
- Come with dosage recommendations
- Should be used under guidance
Key Takeaway: Hemp hearts are a food product focused on nutrition, not medical treatment. If you're looking for therapeutic benefits, explore medical hemp (CBD) products separately.
Hemp Hearts Myth Busters
Myth #1: Hemp Hearts Will Get You High
🌿 False. Hemp hearts won't get you high – they contain only trace, non-psychoactive levels of THC (less than 0.3%). You cannot get intoxicated from eating hemp hearts or any food hemp products.
Myth #2: Hemp Products Are Illegal in India
✅ False. Hemp food products are legal in India and approved by FSSAI. Hemp products in India, including hemp hearts and hemp seed oil, are completely legal to buy, sell, and consume.
Myth #3: Hemp Hearts Need Special Storage
🧊 Partially true. Store hemp hearts properly in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place or refrigerator to keep them fresh. Their high oil content means they can go rancid if exposed to heat and light for extended periods.
Myth #4: Everyone Is Allergic to Hemp
⚠️ False. Allergies to hemp hearts are rare, but start with a small amount (1 teaspoon) if you're trying hemp products for the first time. Hemp is generally well-tolerated.
Myth #5: Hemp Hearts Are the Same as Marijuana Seeds
❌ False. While both come from Cannabis sativa, industrial hemp used for hemp hearts is a different variety with no psychoactive properties. Hemp and marijuana are not the same.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemp Hearts and Hemp Products
What are hemp hearts exactly?
Hemp hearts are shelled hemp seeds—the soft, nutritious kernel inside hemp seeds after the hard outer shell is removed. They have a mild, nutty taste and are packed with protein, healthy fats, and minerals.
What are hemp seeds called in Hindi language?
Hemp seeds are called 'bhang ke beej' (भांग के बीज) in Hindi. The word "bhang" refers to hemp/cannabis, and "beej" means seeds.
Are hemp hearts legal in India?
Yes, hemp hearts and other hemp food products are completely legal in India. They have FSSAI approval and can be sold, purchased, and consumed without any legal concerns.
Do hemp hearts contain CBD or THC?
Hemp hearts contain minimal amounts of cannabinoids. They have less than 0.3% THC (non-intoxicating levels) and trace amounts of CBD. They're purely a nutritional food product, not a medical hemp product.
What is the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil?
Hemp seed oil is extracted from hemp seeds and used as a nutritious cooking oil rich in omega fatty acids. CBD oil is extracted from hemp flowers/leaves and contains therapeutic cannabinoids. Hemp seed oil is a food product; CBD oil is a medical hemp product.
Where can I buy hemp products in India?
You can buy hemp products in India from health food stores, organic markets, major e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Flipkart), specialty wellness stores, and some urban supermarkets. Look for FSSAI-certified brands.
How much hemp hearts should I eat daily?
A typical serving is 2-3 tablespoons (20-30 grams) of hemp hearts per day. This provides about 10g of protein and healthy fats. You can start with 1 tablespoon and gradually increase.
Can hemp hearts help with weight loss?
Hemp hearts can support weight management due to their high protein and fiber content, which helps with satiety. However, they're calorie-dense (about 170 calories per 3 tablespoons), so portion control matters.
What are medical hemp products in India?
Medical hemp products in India include AYUSH-licensed CBD oils, tinctures, capsules, and topicals used for pain relief, sleep support, anxiety management, and other wellness purposes. These are different from nutritional hemp products.
Are hemp products suitable for children?
Hemp hearts and hemp seed oil are safe, nutritious foods suitable for children as part of a balanced diet. However, medical hemp products (CBD) should only be given to children under medical supervision.
Do hemp products show up on drug tests?
Food hemp products like hemp hearts typically don't cause positive drug tests due to extremely low THC content. However, consuming very large quantities might theoretically cause trace THC detection. Medical hemp products with higher THC content may have different considerations.
About Qurist: Your Trusted Source for Hemp Education and CBD Products
Qurist supports education about hemp and cannabis products in India. We believe informed consumers make better wellness decisions. Whether you're exploring hemp hearts for nutrition or medical hemp products for wellness, we provide reliable information to support your health journey.
Why Choose Qurist:
- Quality Education: Clear, accurate information about CBD and hemp products
- Transparency: Honest guidance about different hemp products and their uses
- Quality Standards: Commitment to highest product safety and efficacy
- AYUSH Licensed: Fully compliant medical hemp (CBD) products
- Cultural Understanding: Respecting India's traditional relationship with hemp
- Third-Party Testing: All CBD products verified for purity and potency
Whether exploring hemp hearts for nutrition or CBD products for wellness, quality and knowledge matter. Qurist provides reliable information and premium medical hemp products to support your health journey.
(Disclaimer: ALWAYS speak to your doctor before starting CBD products.)
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