What is Hemp?

There tends to be confusion and misunderstanding in connection to the multitude of uses and potential health benefits of hemp without knowing what it is. Can hemp get you high? What’s the best method of consuming it? What are its main purposes? If these questions are preventing you from exploring the many uses of hemp, then read on. We’ll give you the facts about what hemp is and how it’s used.

Hemp derives from the Cannabis sativa plant and has been used by humans for thousands of years. The plant originated from Central Asia as early as 2800 BCE and later made its way through Europe during the Middle Ages. In the United States, hemp underwent several trials from federal restriction to public misinformation; however, the production of industrial hemp became legalized nationally under the 2018 Farm Bill.

Recently, hemp has gained recognition as the crop of the future due to its versatility and environmental benefits. There are three parts of the hemp plant that have varying uses: the seeds, the stalk, and the roots. Each of these possess unique qualities that allow for a wide variety of purposes.

Hemp seeds are known for their nutritional value and have been used in coffee, tea, milk, and other food products as a ‘superfood’ equivalent to flax or chia seeds. Hemp seeds can also be turned into biofuel, which is the most sustainable fuel option in comparison to fossil fuels and other biofuels.

The stalk of the hemp plant, and specifically its fibers, is an incredibly durable substance. It has been used to make textiles, clothing, shoes, rope, etc. Its unmatched durability prevents the typical wear and tear exerted on most materials, making it a superior choice for such products.

Lastly, the leaves. Hemp leaves are where its medicinal properties are located, including the compound cannabidiol (CBD). The leaves can be used to make hemp oils, topical applications, and other products that may bring comfort and relief.

Uses of Hemp

Due to the hemp plant’s many beneficial facets, it’s used in a wide spectrum of products. Below is a list of just some uses of hemp:

Textiles
Paper
Clothing
Biofuel
Cosmetics/skin care
Food
Canvas
Construction materials
Hemp Oils

Clearly, hemp can be used for a wide range of products; however, its most compelling may be its potential wellness benefits. Due to how the CBD in hemp interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it may help soothe and relieve muscles, relax the body, and balance other bodily functions.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

The most common question surrounding hemp is: how is hemp different from marijuana? While hemp and marijuana are from the same groupings of the plant species Cannabis sativa, the key difference between these two is the presence of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. THC is the psychoactive substance in cannabis that produces the ‘high’ feeling associated with marijuana. In the United States, plants can only be considered hemp if they have less than 0.3% THC, which is a negligible amount and does not trigger psychoactive effects. Products derived from hemp will not get you high.

Visually, hemp and marijuana plants also have distinguishable traits. Hemp plants are taller (up to 20 feet tall!) and have thinner leaves than the related marijuana plant. In addition, hemp plants require less specific growing conditions than marijuana, thriving in many different environments. This means they require much less care, making hemp plants more manageable to grow and maintain than marijuana.

CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD), is the cannabinoid extracted from the hemp plant that contributes to the wellness space. There are many different ways to consume CBD depending on the desired effect. The most common method to ingest CBD is through oils, which can be infused into food/drink, or taken sublingually. Capsules containing CBD are also a quick and convenient way to receive stress relief, and can even target more specific needs such as promoting sleep or immune support. CBD gummies have also gained popularity; they provide a fun and tasty alternative to other methods of ingesting CBD. Lastly, topical applications of CBD skin care are a simple way to reap the benefits of CBD for your skin and muscles. Explore all the options and find out which CBD product is right for you here!

Whether you’re new to the CBD scene, or just brushing up on your hemp knowledge, it is important to know what you’re putting into your body. GorillaFarmCo ensures the highest quality of organic hemp in order to keep your CBD products safe and healthy.