When many of us hear the word hemp we may think of marijuana or hashish. Interestingly, hemp was a common fiber used in clothes and food for centuries, long before it was prohibited in the United States. The information I will be sharing will hopefully dispel some of the falsities regarding hemp, and hopefully you will become a supporter of this amazing ancient seed.
Hemp is a fiber and seed taken from the Cannabis Sativa plant and has been used for over 12,000 years for a variety of reasons. For many cultures hemp was used for food and clothing, and it has been used to industrialize rope, canvas, paper, textiles, and synthetics. Currently, the largest distributor of hemp has been China, but Australia and Canada have taken an interest in hemp production over the years.
Hemp originated in Central Asia, and traces of this seed can be found going back to 2800 BC. Fiber from the seed was used throughout the Mediterranean and Europe. Around 1500 BC, there is evidence that hemp seed was planted in Chile and in North America around 1600 BC.
In modern times, with the advancement in plant breeding and manufacturing processes the ability to make hemp softer has allowed for the ability to weave hemp into clothing and fabrics. The following video shows the importance of hemp during World War II, and prior to its prohibition nearly 50 years ago in America.
Hemp seed not only provides sustainable fibers, but it also makes biodegradable plastics and fuel. Amazingly enough, the hemp seed also makes food. The hemp seed is high in nutrition and energy bars, salad dressings, milk, hemp oil vitamin supplements, and protein powder is being made from this one tiny resource.
According to the United States Marijuana Prohibition Act (“MPA”), hemp is the seed part of the cannabis plant, while the flower is legally a part of the plant that is called marijuana. The fiber and seeds part of this plant is often called “cash crop,” due to its value. Until recently, the MPA has not allowed for the growth of hemp within the United States for over 50 years.
We have seen an opening up of hemp production due to the State of Colorado changing the law, and the restart of industrial production. Therefore, we now see hemp oil, plastic, building material, fiber, and food back on the market within the United States. The industry is highly monitored but we are seeing a monetary boom, and independence of state from federal government within the State of Colorado alone.
The best soil to grow a hemp plant is partial sand, clay, and silt. The plant prefers high drainage and can reach a height of 16 feet tall. The plant prefers a monthly rainfall of about two to three inches throughout the growing season.
Depending upon what the plant is being grown for there are different ways to grow the plant. For instance, if the plant is going to be used for oil, then planting the trees farther apart is recommended.
If the plant is being grown for seed production, the flowers will grow elongated with spike clusters and this type of growth is female in nature. If the plant is being grown for flowers then the branches will grow in clusters with full blossoms and shed, this type of growth is male in nature.
The hemp fiber processing takes a water soaking process called retting, drying, and crushing. The process will produce an approximate six foot long strand. The hemp fiber is usually not dyed and keeps its original natural color varying from yellow, green, dark brown, or gray. The fiber in its original form is strong, durable, spongy, and coarse.
Some countries add another step to the processing and the color produced is white and this will create a linen type fabric.
Hemp seed oil is a nutritional source of protein, fiber, and magnesium. The shelled part of hemp seeds are called hearts and can be eaten raw. The most common use is to sprinkle on salads, blend into smoothies, or use as milk. The seed can also be used for bird food.
As a healing medicine, the hemp oil can be used to heal chronic pain, and a few people I have spoken to hemp seed can heal diseases.
Hemp will not get you high, but it does contain .3% THC. A feeling of euphoria or a headache may occur. You also may feel like you took a laxative. Hemp can cure constipation.
Hemp was first located on an island off of mainland China, where material from clothing was found.
The North American Industrial Council has determined that more than 25,000 products can be made from hemp. The word canvas can be traced back to the word hemp. The flags first created in America were made of hemp.
During the 1600’s landowners in America were regulated to grow hemp. The Jamestown settlement was ordered by decree to grow 100 plants for export to Britain.
Many celebrities and US senators are in favor of making hemp seed legal throughout the the country. The understanding is that it will create a boost in the economy and jobs.
For years there was a disbelief throughout the USA that hemp seed was a mandated source of economy. It was not until the video Hemp for Victory, was found and shared that it was a proven fact.
Nutrients found in hemp seed are also found in breast milk. Hemp is rich in gamma linolenic acid, omega-3, and fatty acids.
Every part of hemp can be used, including the stalks. According to scientist David Mitlin leftover hemp stalks can be used to store energy. Small super-capacitors were built with hemp and bursts of energy were recorded that charged an iPhone for two hours.
In conclusion, if you have not had the time to research the facts about hemp seed, hopefully this will peak your curiosity to give hemp further consideration, and to give an ancient seed credit for a more sustainable future for humankind. Peace.
