Hundreds of millions of new malaria infections occur each year – and perhaps hemp seed oil has its place in helping to address this scourge.
Malaria is a disease spread to humans by some species of mosquitoes. Mostly occurring in tropical countries, it is preventable and curable – but the toll is still very high. According to the World Health Organisation, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 deaths in 83 countries in 2023. Malaria has its greatest impact in poorer nations.
The most common medicines for preventing or treating malaria are artemisinin-based combination therapy, chloroquine and primaquine. But the USA’s IND HEMP says research indicates Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can be lethal to malaria parasites. Omega-3-rich foods include fish – and hemp seed oil.
The company says hemp seed oil could also help regulate the immune system – avoiding what IND says is a “dangerous inflammatory cascade” related to malaria. IND states that unlike fish oil, hemp seed oil provides a more environmentally friendly, plant-based alternative and its cultivation can dovetail smoothly into local farming practices. The byproduct of producing the oil is hemp seed cake, which is also still rich in nutrients.
“By cultivating hemp locally, communities can reduce dependence on imported goods, enhance food security, and develop long-term agricultural and economic resilience,” says IND.
The company has struck up a partnership with the USA’s National Hemp Association (NHA), aiming to kick off pilot programs in several African countries to further investigate the potential of developing and supplying hemp-based nutritional products exported from the USA. However, it would also work to help establish farming and processing in Africa.
The organisations won’t be going in cold as they already have relationships in some countries. NHA Chair Geoff Whaling will be returning to Africa this month to discuss the use of hemp seed oil and cake with leaders in Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Ghana.
“By uniting with IND HEMP, we’re showcasing how hemp-based nutrition, including mechanically pressed hemp grain can improve health outcomes, stimulate local economies, and address an urgent global challenge,” said Mr. Whaling. “We’re excited to bring this conversation directly to leaders on the African continent.”
Hundreds of millions of new malaria infections occur each year – and perhaps hemp seed oil has its place in helping to address this scourge. Read More
