Hemp is a variety of the cannabis sativa plant species and has been cultivated for over 12,000 years by many civilizations. It has the strongest fiber of any plant and has over 25,000 different uses and applications. This magnificent plant provides a world of possibilities that could solve many of our problems today. Be it health, environment or industrial, hemp provides a solution to almost every endeavor of mankind. Despite the enormous benefits that hemp can offer, there are still many states and countries that have banned the growing of hemp.
The great benefits and uses of hemp
If humanity is looking for sustainable solutions to most of its problems, then hemp might be the way of redemption. First, hemp is one plant that does not need any pesticides as it is naturally resistant to pests. This can greatly reduce pollution caused by spraying chemicals into the soil which eventually find their way into the groundwater. It is the fastest growing plant ever with a high yielding potential which means it can be harvested multiple times in a year. A fully grown hemp plant will be ready in about 12-14 weeks.
In addition, hemp can be used for commercial and industrial purposes to create durable, practical and biodegradable products. Hemp seeds and flowers are used in the manufacturing of healthy body care products, nutraceuticals, and health foods.
Hemp fibers and stalks are used in construction materials, hemp clothing, paper, hemp plastics, biofuel, animal feeds and much more.
The environmental benefits of hemp are equally impressive. Aside from not needing any pesticides, hemp helps in detoxifying the soil, prevents soil erosion and fixes CO2 levels. Once the plant is harvested, the remains break down and decompose in the soil providing valuable nutrients. Hemp requires very little water for growth and can adapt well to a variety of climates. Compared to traditional crops, hemp is the most environmentally friendly plant.
Hemp fibers compared to other natural fibers
Hemp is a bast fiber which means it is similar to jute, flax, kenaf, and ramie. The hemp fiber has a wide range of applications which include the production of paper, textiles, drywalls, clothing, rope, sails, fiberboards and construction materials. It is regarded as the strongest natural fiber known to man. Due to its absorbent qualities, which are actually better than linen, it is still strong when wet. However, it is brittle and stiff and is best used in blends with other fibers such as cotton and wool. Under certain circumstances, the hemp fiber is not as durable as other fibers such as cotton or linen. It can wrinkle easily and it is best to avoid creasing it to avoid breakage and wear of the fibers.
Why did hemp lose the battle to cotton?
There is no doubt about the economic and agronomic potential of hemp but somehow, its growing has been banned in many countries around the world. Compared to cotton, hemp has the most durable fibers and can be used as a perfect and cheaper substitute. Currently, this is not the case. While there are many claims about an industrial conspiracy against hemp, a deeper look does not support most of these claims. In almost every instance, these conspiracy claims are virtually unchallenged and most people would rather believe them. The truth is that the banning of hemp stems from its cousin plant, the cannabis sativa (Indica) also known as marijuana. In the 1910s, there was a widespread banning of marijuana in the United States, Canada, and many countries of the world because of its psychoactive properties which were classified as illegal. Not knowing the difference, most legislators classified hemp as illegal too even though it does not make someone ‘high’.
The difference between hemp and marihuana
Hemp and marihuana both belong to cannabis sativa plant species though they are different varieties: hemp variety, sativa and marihuana variety, indica. The other main difference is in the chemical composition of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the chemical component that is responsible for psychoactive effects which makes one get ‘high’. Hemp contains negligible amounts of THC, at less than 0.3% and does not have the intoxicating effect of illegal marijuana. On the other hand, marijuana has a considerable concentration of THC which varies between 5% and 30%. The high concentration of THC in marijuana is responsible for the psychoactive and intoxicating effect. In addition, hemp contains cannabidiol (CBD) which is a non-intoxicating compound and acts as a counter to THC. This makes hemp virtually non-intoxicating.
Applications of hemp
Hemp has a legion of uses in industry, health, and food. Some examples of practical, durable and in the end-of-life biodegradable hemp products include:
- Hemp automobiles made of hemp plastic
Biofuels
- Office pens
- Hemp towel
- Hemp sheets and paper
- Hemp chairs
- Tablecloths
- Blankets
- Ropes
- Plastics
- Hempcrete (used in building and construction)
- Hemp batteries
- Laundry detergents such as the Pure Castille soap
Dog collars and leash
Toys
Hemp essential oil
Sunscreen
Body wash
Shampoo and conditioners
Lip Balms
- Body lotions
- Bracelets
- Flip-flop sandals
Wallets
Hats
Sunglasses
Backpacks
Coats
Shoes
Hemp vodka
Hemp seed oil
Hemp milk
Hemp energy bars
In conclusion, hemp provides practical and sustainable solutions to most of the environmental, health and nutritional challenges that we encounter each day. Besides the economic benefits associated with the growing of hemp and hemp products, it can be a major step in curbing climatic issues such as the increase in carbon footprint and global warming.
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