Hemp

One of the most important aspects to keep in mind when we talk about hemp is that it is not marijuana. Although their general appearance is similar and they belong to the same family of plants, their chemical composition is different.

•  The main difference with respect to its composition is that hemp does not contain practically tetrahydrocannabinol (THC <0.2%).
•  The hemp plant is taller, thicker and with less foliage than marijuana.

History of industrial hemp

Hemp is an ancient plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Some carbon tests suggest from 8000 a. C. Many civilizations throughout the time have cultivated hemp for different uses, as food or fiber.

Some curious facts

In America, in the seventeenth century, farmers in some states were mandated by law to grow hemp from India. In the eighteenth century, a person could be sentenced to prison if he did not grow hemp on his land. In 1850, the US census counted approximately 8,400 hemp plantations of at least 809 hectares. 80% of the world’s textile needs came from hemp until the 20th century. In 1940, Henry Ford began using hemp in his cars.

Uses of hemp

Industrial hemp has more than 3,000 known uses, among products and by-products, in sectors such as:

• Textil: With multiple adaptations.
• Food: Hemp seed provides large amounts of vitamins (A, C, D, E and B), minerals, and amino acids such as Omega 3,6 and 9 in high concentrations.
• Construction: It is used as a construction and sustainable material.
• Bio-plastics: It is a material that really biodegrades.
• Biofuels: There are fuels made with hemp.
• Medicine: There are multiple innovative medical applications.

You can use everything from industrial hemp.

The hemp production

The production of hemp has increased in recent years in the European Union, improving the industry and the quality of the product:

• 50-60% goes to paper products and animal care products.
• 15-25% for the automotive industry.
• 20% to construction.
• 5% to agriculture / geotextile, mattresses, shoe soles, etc.

Hemp seeds are used to feed animals. Human consumption nowadays is a minority. It is currently increasing the use in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical uses. The latest technologies in hemp are developed in the field of medical research and product development.