# Nutritional Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Hemp (_Camanabis sativa_ L.) Seed from Romania
## 1 Introduction  
Industrial hemp (_Camabis sativa_ L.), an annual herbaceous plant from the _Camanabaceae_ family [1], has historically been a significant crop originating in Asia and extensively cultivated in Europe for textile and food production. Over the centuries, it has been regarded as one of the most essential crops, providing a range of materials and products, including rope, fabric, food, lamp oil, and medicinal products [2, 3]. While hemp seeds are primarily used as animal feed, there is growing interest in their potential for human nutrition, leading to increased demand for hemp-derived products such as oil, meal, flour, and protein powder. These products offer a natural, nutrient-rich alternative for human consumption, providing all essential amino and fatty acidsrequired for optimal health [4]. Nutrient-wise, hemp seeds comprise approximately 25-35% oil, 20-25% protein, 20-30% carbohydrates, 10-15% insoluble fibre, and a rich profile of vitamins and minerals [5]. Hemp seeds are a valuable source of essential macro- and microelements that contribute to human health. Mineral deficiencies, including iron (Fe), iodine (I), and zinc (Zn), are becoming a more significant dietary issue in human populations. Furthermore, the intake of key elements such as calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and selenium (Se) may be insufficient in certain dietary patterns. However, hemp seeds might become crucial future candidates for addressing these deficiencies because of their balanced chemical composition [6]. Hemp seed oil is notably rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, presenting a beneficial balance of \(\alpha\)-linolenic acid (omega-6) and linoleic acid (omega-3) with an ideal ratio of 2.5-3.1, which is particularly favourable for human dietary needs [7]. These attributes contribute to the robust market value of hemp seeds and their predominant use in human food and nutritional supplements [8]. Hemp seeds comprise a significant abundance of natural antioxidants and a variety of bioactive compounds, which include phenolic substances such as coumarins, hydroxybenzoic acids, and multiple xanthone peptides. These polyphenols have significant anti-aging properties, protecting against various age-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders [9]. Phenolic compounds offer various physiological benefits, including cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects [10]. Recent research [11; 12; 13] supports the role of hemp-derived phenolic compounds in scavenging free radicals, contributing to anti-aging benefits and the prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases. Additionally, new studies [14] have strengthened the evidence supporting the cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids, including their modulation of key enzyme pathways. Ensuring the availability of these bioactive compounds and achieving high recovery rates from any plant matrix is paramount. The extraction process plays a critical role in ensuring efficient acquisition of compounds while preserving their integrity and maximizing yield. It is a pivotal step in the overall process. Standard extraction techniques for bioactive compounds from plant materials include Soxhlet extraction, maceration, and hydro-distillation [15]. These methods often involve lengthy extraction times, require expensive high-purity solvents, and can lead to the degradation of heat-sensitive compounds. These limitations have prompted researchers to explore and develop alternative extraction methods that are more efficient, cost-effective, and better at preserving the integrity of delicate compounds [16; 17]. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) is a highly effective method that offers significant advantages over traditional techniques. These benefits include shorter processing times, simpler operational procedures, reduced solvent usage, lower temperatures, energy savings, and higher extraction yields [18]. UAE enhances extraction efficiency by utilizing cavitation effects and improving mass transfer [19].