Hemp: The sustainable crop of the future?
By Kenny Perry, SELFCARE MC
Updated Sun August 14, 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
Hemp is a type of cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. THC is the compound that produces the psychoactive effects of marijuana. Many people might associate Hemp with Cannabidiol (CBD), this is however not the only compound found in the plant. Hemp is a versatile plant that can be used to make a variety of products, including clothing, food, paper, and building materials. It is also a sustainable crop that can help to reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources.
- Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into a powder. They are a good source of protein and fiber, and they can be added to smoothies, yogurt, or salads.
- Hemp oil: Hemp oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, and it can be taken orally or used topically. It is often used in skin care products and hair care products.
- Hemp protein powder: Hemp protein powder is a good source of protein, and it can be added to smoothies, yogurt, or baked goods. It is a popular choice for people who are looking for a plant-based protein source.
- Oil: CBD oil is extracted from hemp and contains CBD, a non-psychoactive compound with a number of health benefits. CBD oil can be taken orally, applied topically, or vaporized. THCa Oil is extracted from raw cannabis plants. When cannabis is heated, THCA converts to THC. This is why smoking or vaping cannabis produces a psychoactive effect, while eating raw cannabis does not.
- Capsules: Capsules are a convenient way to take different types of cannabinoid oils. They are easy to swallow and they provide a consistent dose per serving.
- Gummies: Gummies are a fun and tasty way to take different types of cannabinoids . They are easy to dose and they are a good option for people who don’t like the taste of cannabinoid based oils.
- Topical creams: Topical creams are applied to the skin and might help to relieve pain, inflammation, and other skin conditions.
There are two main types of hemp: industrial hemp and medical hemp. Industrial hemp is grown for its fibers and seeds. Medical hemp is grown for its Cannabinoid content. And example of this is CBD, a non-psychoactive compound that is be studied for its reported health benefits.
Hemp and marijuana are both types of cannabis plants, but they have different chemical compositions. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. Marijuana contains more than 0.3% THC, and can produce a euphoric or intoxicating effect.
Hemp has a number of benefits, including:
- A sustainable crop that requires less water and pesticides than other crops.
- A versatile plant that can be used to make a variety of products.
- A natural alternative to synthetic materials.
- Possible health benefits, include
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies have shown certain cannabinoids to have anti-inflammatory properties. This may be beneficial for people with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Antioxidant: Some cannabinoids may act as antioxidants, which means it can help to protect cells from damage. This may be beneficial for people with conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
- Neuroprotective: Some cannabinoids have been shown to have neuroprotective properties. This means it can help to protect the brain from damage. This may be beneficial for people with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Hemp is generally considered safe for most people. However, there are some potential risks, including:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Reduced coordination
- Increased risk of liver damage in people with pre-existing liver conditions
It is important to note that these are just potential risks, and most people who use hemp do not experience any negative side effects.
The Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and defined it as a cannabis plant with less than 0.3% THC. This made it legal to grow and produce hemp for a variety of purposes, including: The legality of hemp varies from country to country. In the United States, hemp is legal at the federal level. However, some states have their own laws governing the cultivation and sale of hemp. It is important to check the laws in your state before growing or using hemp.
Hemp products can be purchased online or at some retail stores. It is important to buy hemp products from a reputable source to ensure that they are safe and legal. Here at Selfcare MC, we source only the highest quality Hemp products to sell to our customers.
2018 Farm Bill
The 2018 Farm Bill was a landmark piece of legislation that legalized hemp production in the United States. Prior to the passage of the Farm Bill, hemp was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which made it illegal to grow or possess.
The Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and defined it as a cannabis plant with less than 0.3% THC. This made it legal to grow and produce hemp for a variety of purposes as mentioned above
The passage of the Farm Bill has had a significant impact on the hemp industry. In the years since the Farm Bill was passed, there has been a surge in hemp cultivation and production. In 2019, there were an estimated 20,000 acres of hemp planted in the United States. By 2022, that number had grown to over 500,000 acres.
The growth of the hemp industry has created new jobs and opportunities in rural communities. It has also led to the development of new products and technologies. The hemp industry is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to be a major economic driver in the years to come.
Here are some specific examples of how the 2018 Farm Bill has helped the hemp industry:
- It has allowed farmers to grow hemp legally.
- It has created a market for hemp products.
- It has led to the development of new hemp products and technologies.
- It has created jobs in the hemp industry.
- It has helped to reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources.
- It has helped to protect the environment.
The 2018 Farm Bill was a major victory for the hemp industry. It has paved the way for the growth and development of the hemp industry in the years to come.