Hemp

Hemp, Cannibis sativa, is a controversial plant because it is a close relative to Marijuana. The difference between the two plants is genetics, and the environment in which they are grown. Marijuana plants contain THC which is thought to be the chemical that makes people high. Marijuana contains a lot of this and hemp only contains only a little.

Hemp has many uses; it is one of nature's most versatile plants. 

Hemp and marijuana have different uses. Marijuana is usually smoked and gives a high. It is considered psychoactive and is sometimes used for religious purposes. It is also popular for its medical uses. Hemp is used for plastics, paper, military grade fabric, rope, wax, resin, various foods and oils. It is also used for cleaning up soil pollution.

Hemp has been used for fabric for centuries. The Chinese were using hemp fabric back in 8,000 BC. In Great Britain, hemp was cultivated in 800 AD. Henry VIII encouraged the cultivation of hemp for building battleships, riggings, pendants, sails, paper for maps and even for Bibles. Hemp was grown in in the 1600's in the American colonies of Virginia, Massachusetts and Connecticut. In the 1700's hemp was used for currency and farmers could pay taxes with it.

Hemp seeds are considered a health food. They have a nutty flavor and can be used in salads, desserts, yogurts, bread, cereal and protein powder. I have personally tried the protein powder and I like the taste. Hemp seeds contain Omega-6 and omega-3 oils which are essential fatty acids that are good for the heart and have anti inflammatory properties. They also have amino acids that help with muscle control and mental function.

 In January of 2015 a bill was introduced into congress to legalize the growing of hemp. In February 2015 a new farm bill was passed allowing universities and state agriculture departments to develop programs using hemp. The industrial use of hemp is thought to be something that would help boost the American economy by creating jobs. All in all, there is a resurgence of interest in hemp and the many uses of this beneficial plant.


Sources:
http://www.leafscience.com/2014/09/16/5-differences-hemp-marijuana/
http://www.treehugger.com/environmental-policy/perfect-plant-7-great-uses-for-industrial-hemp.html
http://www.hemp.com/history-of-hemp/
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-hemp-2.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/22/hemp-legalization_n_6525106.html
https://www.rt.com/usa/feds-step-hemp-legalization-647/
http://www.forbes.com/sites/ashoka/2013/05/29/industrial-hemp-a-win-win-for-the-economy-and-the-environment/2/


















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Valerie Lull
Author
valerielull923@gmail.com