As the title suggests, health experts are referring to hemp as nature’s hidden gem that has the potential to shape industries and lives. Many people tend to confuse hemp with the controversial marijuana, but let us get the facts right, these two are different. Following research findings, hemp is currently emerging as a game-changer in various industries all over the world. Hemp has the potential to offer a wide range of benefits.
To be precise, you cannot characterize hemp as a mere plant only. It is a revolution that can change industries and help impact the lives of individuals all over the world. So, let us take a deeper look at the world of hemp. Here we will tell you about the history of hemp, its versatility, environmental benefits, and of course the changing outlook of the common man. Check out Weedstop, here you will find all the necessary information on hemp and its overall benefits for humans.
Looking at the history of hemp
For those who do not know, hemp is a plant that has its roots going back thousands of years. The evidence of hemp usage has been found in ancient civilizations of China, Mesopotamia, and Egypt. During that time, hemp was primarily used for its strong fibers which led people to produce ropes, textiles, and paper. Interestingly, some societies considered hemp as a special item and used it as a form of currency.
It was during the dawn of the 20th century that things started to become complicated as hemp was often mistaken for marijuana as both of them have drastic similarities and have a connection with the cannabis family. The confusion led many countries to prohibit the cultivation of hemp as well and its use was banned. The tide was overturned during the latter part of the 20th century when with the assistance of advanced technologies, scientists evaluated the potential beneficial sides of hemp.
The versatility of hemp
A wide array of factors sets hemp apart from the other variants of the cannabis family. Hemp yields textiles, food products, and construction materials, and even helps the cause of human health and wellness. Indeed, hemp is proving to be a versatile product and for that reason, it is helping to shape many types of industries. Here are some of the industries where hemp is presently being used.
- Textiles: The early civilizations realized the benefits of hemp fibers and the modern era is utilizing it for the same purpose to produce more sophisticated items with the help of technology. Hemp fibers are spun into yarns and then woven into fabrics. These fabrics are very robust and additionally, soft and comfortable. In the last few years, hemp clothing has gained immense popularity as it is a more sustainable method. Furthermore, hemp fabrics, as already mentioned are durable and eco-friendly. Hemp can also be blended with other fabrics like cotton or silk with ease to create innovative and sustainable fabrics that fulfill the varied demands of the consumer.
- Food and nutrition: Hemp seeds are known for various benefits for humans. They are rich in protein, and healthy fats, and contain essential nutrients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. All these factors make it an automatic choice for fitness freaks, or anyone conscious about their well-being. Hemp seeds can be consumed raw, roasted, or ground into flour. Then again, hemp seed oil is also a suitable option for cooking and salad dressing.
- Construction materials: In recent times, hemp has been in the limelight in the construction industry for its eco-friendly building materials known as hempcrete. The discovery could not have come at a better time, when globally all the industries are opting for green solutions. Hempcrete is a blend of hemp hurds (the inner woody core of the plant), lime, and water. This new construction alternative to traditional building materials is extremely lightweight, breathable, and boasts incredible insulating properties. Thus, new homes and buildings constructed via hempcrete are both energy-efficient and promote a healthier indoor environment.
- Health and wellness: Hemp can also be utilized to derive CBD (cannabidiol) products. The efficacy of CBD has been well-established for a long time now. It offers myriad therapeutic benefits. For that reason, health and wellness industries are on a roll in manufacturing oils and tinctures to topicals and edibles out of the CBD found in hemp. These products are widely used to regulate symptoms of various conditions including chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Further research is ongoing in identifying more potent benefits of the CBD extracted from hemp. In the coming days, we are all set to witness different products manufactured from hemp extracts having the efficiency of treating a range of health issues.
Health benefits
Hemp is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in its seeds. Thus, it can reduce the risk of heart disease, regulate symptoms of PMS, help in digestion, and can also reduce eczema. An individual can consult a healthcare professional to know the proper dosage for reaping the benefits after taking hemp. Remember, hemp seeds are high in calories and fat. Unless you administer these seeds in moderation, you will not get the benefits.
Environmental benefits of hemp
So far, we have been discussing the commercial applications of hemp. Apart from that, hemp also offers various environmental benefits. Firstly, hemp plants are known for their resilience and are capable of thriving in various climates. Hemp can also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere which makes it an invaluable factor for combatting climate change. Therefore, by planting more hemp trees, individuals can resist the threat of the greenhouse effect to a fair extent.
Another point that works in favor of hemp cultivation is that its plantation has the capability of rejuvenating soil health. It reduces soil erosion and multiplies organic matter. So, all these factors make hemp farming a sustainable agricultural practice which in turn addresses the concern of long-term environmental conservation and land restoration.
Hemp is gradually compelling everyone to change perception and policies
Many of you are perhaps learning the positive aspects of hemp for the first time. It is a clear indication the wrong perceptions surrounding it are now declining. So, governments and policymakers all over the world are reassessing their approach and identifying ways of hemp cultivation and use. So far, many countries have set the tone by legalizing hemp cultivation for industrial purposes. The advent of new hemp-based industries not only benefits the sake of those involved in the production but also for every individual for their overall well-being and development.
As various industries mentioned above increase the use of hemp the consumers are also becoming aware of the benefits of hemp. Soon, we can expect new findings to come out with more fascinating benefits of hemp and that should create new opportunities for new businesses.
Last words
After reading the article, you should have no doubts that hemp is truly nature’s hidden gem. It truly has the potential to reshape industries and promote environmental sustainability. The summation of the above two can do wonders in the lives of people. Hemp in due course will come up with more benefits for the sake of industries and human lives.
