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Types of Hemp Seed Oil: Forms & Bioavailability

Reviewed by·PharmD, BCPS

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Cold-Pressed Liquid OilHighMaximum GLA and ALA delivery — full fatty acid spectrum preserved; must be refrigerated and never heated; nutty flavor suits salads and smoothies
Softgel CapsulesHighConvenience and precise dosing — no taste issues; typically 1g per capsule, so 3-6 capsules needed for therapeutic doses
Topical Hemp Seed OilModerate (local)Direct skin application for eczema and dry skin — non-comedogenic, absorbs well; provides local fatty acid delivery to skin barrier

Cold-Pressed Liquid Oil

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Maximum GLA and ALA delivery — full fatty acid spectrum preserved; must be refrigerated and never heated; nutty flavor suits salads and smoothies.

Softgel Capsules

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Convenience and precise dosing — no taste issues; typically 1g per capsule, so 3-6 capsules needed for therapeutic doses.

Topical Hemp Seed Oil

Bioavailability: Moderate (local). Best for: Direct skin application for eczema and dry skin — non-comedogenic, absorbs well; provides local fatty acid delivery to skin barrier.

Full Hemp Seed Oil Guide

References

  1. Callaway J, Schwab U, Harvima I, Halonen P, Mykkanen O, Hyvonen P, Jarvinen T (2005). Efficacy of dietary hempseed oil in patients with atopic dermatitis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. DOI PubMed
  2. Schwab US, Callaway JC, Erkkila AT, Gynther J, Uusitupa MI, Jarvinen T (2006). Effects of hempseed and flaxseed oils on the profile of serum lipids, serum total and lipoprotein lipid concentrations and haemostatic factors. European Journal of Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  3. Deferne JL, Pate DW (1996). Hemp seed oil: A source of valuable essential fatty acids. Journal of the International Hemp Association.
  4. Richard D, Kefi K, Barbe U, Bausero P, Visioli F (2008). Polyunsaturated fatty acids as antioxidants. Pharmacological Research. DOI PubMed
  5. Montserrat-de la Paz S, Marin-Aguilar F, Garcia-Gimenez MD, Fernandez-Arche MA (2014). Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seed oil: analytical and phytochemical characterization of the unsaponifiable fraction. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. DOI PubMed