Hemp is the low THC variety of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. Hemp, cannabis, and marijuana are often confused, learn more about the difference on our hemp vs. marijuana page. Civilizations cultivated hemp for industrial purposes for more than 12,000 years. The fiber, seeds and oil (including hemp derived CBD) are incredibly valuable with a wide variety uses including clothing, medicines, foods, fuels, and materials for building. The hemp plant is very hardy and grows quickly in diverse soil conditions. Staggering utility and ease of growth justify the claim that industrial hemp is the most useful plant on the planet.
How is it possible, then, that industrial hemp is NOT a prominent staple of the global and domestic economy across multiple industries?
Hemp.com, Inc. aims to change that reality through collaboration and education regarding why this vital plant became outlawed.
History of Hemp
Hemp has a rich history that is nearly as old as human civilization. Human beings used fiber to manufacture rope, canvas, paper, and clothing. There is also evidence that ancient civilizations used hemp for food, medicine, and artistic purposes.
The history of hemp in the United States is equally rich—early legislation even required certain farmers to grow this beneficial plant. It is therefore surprising that such an essential plant became illegal to grow State side. As a result, China has been the largest hemp producer over the last several decades, but other countries such as Australia and Canada are catching up.
Hemp’s Legal Status
Industrial hemp’s status in legal limbo permitted certain products to be sold in the United States but not grown due to the marijuana prohibition act. That changed with the passage of the Farm Bill. This legislation makes it legal at a federal level to grow hemp in the United States with the onus now falling to each State to decide whether hemp can be grown within each jurisdiction. Colorado played a significant role in helping change the laws to pave the way for industrial hemp production again in the United States (see hemp history. Now hemp seed oils, resins like CBD, hemp plastics , hemp building materials and many hemp fiber products can be found and purchased in the market place.
Get Hemp Smart!
Hemp is truly an amazing plant with the potential to help “green up” many industries. Learn more at the Hemp University.
