April Wellness: Hemp Week

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Hemp Week

This week is Hemp History Week. I know, I know. It sounds funny because hemp is commonly associated with smoking marijuana. Whatever your feelings on that topic may be the purpose of this week has nothing to do with a 4:20 celebration. Rather, the point of Hemp History Week is to raise awareness about the various uses of this incredibly sustainable plant.

What is hemp and where is it grown?

Hemp, or Cannabis Sativa L, is the tall, fibrous plant variety of the Cannabis genus. It has been grown for over 10,000 years and is one of the earliest domesticated plants. Hemp plays a big role in our industrial agricultural history and was once supported by the government as a staple crop. Unlike the drug varieties of the Cannabis genus, hemp contains little to no measurable amounts of THC. However, the US government has continued to classify hemp as a narcotic therefore making it illegal to grow in the United States. All hemp products imported into the US must meet a zero tolerance THC level.

Sustainability

Hemp is one of the most sustainable crops found on the planet. It is a fast-growing strong fiber that requires little to no pesticides and herbicides. It can be grown organically and the rotation of hemp crops can aid in weed control and soil building. Once cultivated, hemp continues to be a sustainability star; it is estimated that hemp could be used to produce upwards of 50,000 products.

Here are a few that stand out:

Food - Hemp is a complete vegan protein that is high is fiber and contains essential Omega fatty acids. Hemp seeds can be eaten on their own or turned into oils, protein powders, flour for baked goods, seed butter, seed milk and ice cream. (New Yorkers check out Stogo for their amazing hemp ice cream flavors! I like the Hemp Maple Walnut.)
"Mop Crop" - Hemp can be used to clean impurities out of water. I found it interesting that it is being used as a cleaning agent at the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site.
Fabric - Hemp has a similar texture to linen and can be used to make non-toxic, breathable clothing. Growth requires far fewer chemicals in comparison to cotton which accounts for 50% of the pesticides sprayed around the world.
Paper - Hemp paper is durable allowing it to be recycled many times over. The natural cream color can be lightened with hydrogen peroxide, eliminating the need for chlorine bleach.
Fuel - Hemp can be converted into a clean-burning, non-toxic biofuel.
Concrete - Hemp concrete can be used in energy efficient homes.
Biodegradable detergents, cosmetics and body products can all be made out of hemp.

30 countries currently produce hemp with China being the leader in production. As hemp gains popularity for its sustainability and variability, perhaps it's time the US revisits our policy on domestic growth of the crop. What do you think?