Welcome to the outlet store
Hemp, a versatile and eco-friendly plant, has been cultivated for thousands of years, providing a rich history that spans across various cultures and continents. In this article, we delve into the origins, uses, and misconceptions surrounding hemp while exploring the benefits of hemp seeds, hemp hearts, and the hemp plant itself. We will also discuss the reasons behind the prohibition of hemp in the past and its differences from marijuana.
Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is believed to have originated from Central Asia, specifically around the regions of modern-day China and Taiwan. The cultivation of hemp can be traced back to around 8000 BCE, where it was initially used for making textiles, paper, and food (1). The use of hemp eventually spread to Europe around 1200 BCE, and by the 17th century, it reached the Americas, introduced by European settlers (2).
Hemp seeds and hemp hearts, the edible part of the hemp seed, are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They have been associated with numerous health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and better digestion (3). The hemp plant’s stalk, also known as hemp stock, has been used for centuries to make textiles, rope, paper, and even construction materials like hempcrete.
The question, “What is hemp used for?” has a multifaceted answer. Historically, hemp was primarily used for its fibers to create textiles and ropes (4). Today, the applications of hemp have expanded to include biodegradable plastics, biofuels, food, beverages, and medicinal products containing CBD (cannabidiol).
A common query is whether hemp and marijuana are the same plant. While both hemp and marijuana belong to the Cannabis sativa species, they have distinct differences, primarily in their THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, while marijuana can contain between 5% and 35% THC (5). This difference in THC levels is crucial, as THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. Consequently, hemp does not produce the same intoxicating effects as marijuana.
“Why was hemp banned?” is another question that often arises. The prohibition of hemp in the United States began with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, which effectively outlawed the cultivation of both hemp and marijuana (6). The reasons behind this ban were largely due to misinformation and the association of hemp with marijuana. It was not until the 2018 Farm Bill that industrial hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) was federally legalized in the United States (7).
In the wake of the 2018 Farm Bill, the hemp industry has experienced a resurgence. This renewed interest in hemp can be attributed to its potential in various industries, as well as the growing awareness of its environmental and health benefits.
The future of hemp appears promising, with continuous research and development in its applications, particularly in the fields of medicine, biodegradable plastics, and sustainable construction. As more countries recognize the benefits and distinct properties of hemp, it is expected that the legal barriers and misconceptions surrounding the plant will continue to diminish.
The history of hemp is filled with intriguing facts, cultural significance, and misconceptions. Understanding the plant’s origins, uses, and differences from marijuana is crucial for appreciating its immense potential in various industries, from textiles and construction to food and medicine. Hemp is a testament to its versatility and resilience, as it has endured periods of prohibition and misinformation. With the growing recognition of its benefits and potential, hemp is poised to make a significant impact across those various industries in the coming years, contributing to a more sustainable and health-conscious future.
(1) Russo, E. B. (2007). History of cannabis and its preparations in saga, science, and sobriquet. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 4(8), 1614-1648.
(2) Small, E. (2015). Evolution and classification of Cannabis sativa (marijuana, hemp) in relation to human utilization. The Botanical Review, 81(3), 189-294.
(3) Callaway, J. C. (2004). Hempseed as a nutritional resource: An overview. Euphytica, 140(1-2), 65-72.
(4) Carus, M., Sarmento, L., & Storz, H. (2013). The European hemp industry: Cultivation, processing, and applications for fibres, shivs, seeds, and flowers. European Industrial Hemp Association.
(5) ElSohly, M. A., & Slade, D. (2005). Chemical constituents of marijuana: The complex mixture of natural cannabinoids. Life Sciences, 78(5), 539-548.
(6) Anslinger, H. J., & Tompkins, W. F. (1937). Marihuana tax act of 1937. US Treasury Department.
(7) Johnson, R. (2018). The 2018 Farm Bill (P.L. 115-334): Summary and Side-by-Side Comparison. Congressional Research Service.
(8) European Industrial Hemp Association. (2021). International Hemp Market Data.
(9) Leson, G., Pless, P., Grotenhermen, F., Kalant, H., & ElSohly, M. A. (2001). Evaluating the impact of hemp food consumption on workplace drug tests. Journal of Analytical Toxicology, 25(8), 691-698.
(10) Barber, E. J. W. (1991). Prehistoric textiles: The development of cloth in the Neolithic and Bronze Ages with special reference to the Aegean. Princeton University Press.
