What is Hemp? Applications and Benefits of Hemp Plant

Hemp is a plant that is not exactly very popular, mainly because it is a variation of the cannabis Sativa species of plants, just like marijuana. However, hemp does not cause a high like marijuana does. In reality, hemp has many other uses and benefits you may not be aware of!
Let's get to know what hemp is.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a variety of cannabis belonging to the Sativa family. However, unlike marijuana, hemp contains very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the compound that causes a psychoactive effect. Because of this, hemp can be used for various purposes without causing any intoxication. It does, however, have significant amounts of Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid.

The amount of THC in hemp and marijuana is a legal distinction in the United States. Cannabis sativa L. plants with 0.3% THC or less are considered hemp under federal law. Marijuana plants that exceed the 0.3 percent THC limit are classified as cannabis and remain prohibited by the U.S. Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

History of Hemp

Hemp has a long and notable history in the United States. Hemp was required as part of the crop rotation for early American settlers. Hemp paper was used to write the Declaration of Independence, and hemp fabric was used to make the first American flag. But, as other crops grew more popular, hemp production started to diminish in the early twentieth century. The year 1970 marked the beginning of something new for the United States. Hemp was designated as a Schedule I substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, effectively prohibiting its growth and use.
Hemp production has recently seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States. Hemp was removed from the Controlled Substances Act in the 2018 Farm Bill, making it legal to cultivate and use hemp anywhere in the United States.

Benefits of Hemp

HEALTH BENEFITS

Hemp seeds contain multiple nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, vitamin E, and numerous minerals. Hemp seeds contain many soluble and insoluble fibers, which may help with health issues like constipation, ulcers, and hemorrhoids. In addition, the seeds have been shown to raise estrogen levels in the body. The CBD is also therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease, depression, and anxiety, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Hemp seeds are high in antioxidant activity, which helps to protect cells from the effects of free radicals. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is abundant in hemp oil, which may help with postmenopausal symptoms such as breast discomfort, moodiness, and diarrhea. The presence of fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 in the hemp seeds has been shown to lower blood pressure and are considered good for the skin.

SMOKING BENEFITS

Hemp cigarettes do not contain tobacco and are considered a much healthier smoking option than traditional cigarettes. They may also help to reduce the risk of cancer and other tobacco-related illnesses.
Even though hemp contains THC, people do not get high from smoking it since it is observed in a low amount. It is noted that hemp smoking can leave you feeling calm and relaxed.

INDUSTRIAL BENEFITS

Hemp has several industrial uses as well. Textile firms utilize hemp stalk fiber, while paper and other building and packaging products are made from hemp leaf pulp. Cannabidiol (CBD), a medicinal alkaloid in hemp, is utilized extensively in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors.

Applications of different parts of the hemp

The hemp plant comprises many components, each of which has diverse applications. Hemp may be found in various items, from car door composites to certain bath and body products. Hemp is used in various products by huge corporations such as Ford Motor Company, The Body Shop, and Patagonia. Hemp fabric is anti-mildew, U.V. resistant, and hypoallergenic and thermodynamic, making it ideal for outdoor wear.

The most common hemp applications for various plant parts are listed below.

HEMP SEED

Food items such as bread, dairy products, granola, animal feed, protein powder, and flour are frequently made with hemp seeds. Fuel, different types of lubricants, cosmetics, varnish, ink, oil-based paint, and food items like dressings and margarine are all made from hemp oil derived from hemp seeds.

HEMP LEAVES

Cigarettes, cigars, animal bedding, fuel, and mulch are all made with hemp leaves. The hemp leaf is a nutritional powerhouse; it may be squeezed, juiced, or eaten raw with fresh greens in salads. A calming CBD tea can also be made from hemp leaves.

HEMP BUDS

Hemp flowers contain a variety of beneficial compounds. Cannabis cannabinoids are also present in hemp buds. CBD (cannabidiol) is one of these cannabinoids utilized to cure various ailments, including mood disorders and epilepsy.

HEMP STALKS

The stalk of the hemp plant has multiple uses. It is used to make paper, clothing, construction materials like fiberboard and insulation, carpeting, ropes, twine, and yarn. The fibers of the hemp stalk are known to be highly durable, makinghem ideal for various applications.

HEMP FIBERS

Clothing and paper goods are made from hemp fiber. Rolling hemp papers enable marijuana smokers to smoke their herb in natural and chemical-free wrappers. Plastic composites, canvas, and rope are all possible uses for hemp fiber. It may also be utilized to create diesel fuel.

HEMP HURD

The woodier portion of the hemp stalk is called hemp hurd. It's used in mulch, fiberboard, and animal bedding. Hempcrete is a construction material created from hemp hurd.

Ending Note

Hemp has a long and varied history, with many uses discovered over the years. With the recent legalization of hemp in the United States, even more uses will likely be found in the future.

Hemp has multiple applications and is considered to be a versatile plant. It is used in various industries, from clothing and paper to fuel and building materials. Hemp is a plant with many benefits that should be utilized to its full potential.

As far as smoking is concerned, Zooted Hemp Wraps are available in several distinct flavors if you're looking for top-quality hemp wraps that you can smoke without worry.