Hemp, as we all know, is a versatile and eco-friendly plant. Lately, it has been making headlines in India for its numerous applications and benefits.
But what exactly is a hemp plant, and how does it differ from cannabis? Why are hemp fiber and hemp seed becoming a popular product in India? While hemp is legal in India, should we indulge in it?
Let’s take up these questions one by one and get into the basics of hemp.
What is Hemp?
Hemp is a part of the Cannabis sativa plant family that is grown specifically for industrial use. It has been utilized for thousands of years in textiles, food, and more. Unlike marijuana, hemp contains a pretty low amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that gets you high.
Hemp vs. Cannabis
While both hemp and marijuana come from the Cannabis sativa species, they are cultivated and used for different purposes. The primary difference lies in their THC content. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, which is why it doesn’t give you the high, whereas marijuana typically contains 5-30% THC.
Also Read: What Is Bhang? Exploring Its History, Effects, Medicinal Uses, and Legal Status in India
The Origin and History of Hemp
Hemp is believed to have originated in Central Asia, particularly in regions that are now modern-day China and Taiwan. Archaeological evidence suggests that hemp was used as early as 10,000 years ago. The ancient Chinese were among the first to recognize its value and discovered hemp fibers to come up with textiles, paper, and ropes.
Spread Across Continents
From its origins in Asia, the cultivation and use of hemp spread to other parts of the world:
Ancient China
Around 2,800 BCE, hemp was documented in the ancient Chinese pharmacopeia as one of the earliest cultivated crops. Hemp fiber was integral to the production of some of the earliest forms of paper, which were developed during the Han Dynasty around 200 BCE to 200 CE. The plant was also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its purported healing properties.
Ancient India
Hemp made its way to India around 2800 BCE, where it was imbibed into religious practices and Ayurvedic medicine. Hemp fibers were used for making textiles and ropes, while its seeds and oil were used for nutritional and medicinal purposes.
Ancient Egypt
According to JARCE, evidence of using hemp has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, suggesting that it was used for making ropes and textiles, as well as in medicinal applications. It was first introduced in 1934 by Warren Dawson into ancient Egyptian literature. He concluded that the word “shemshemet” means cannabis sativa. This came to be once he came across an old kingdom statement that suggested that rope was made from “shemshemet”.
Ancient Greece and Rome
The Greeks and Romans utilized hemp for making sails, ropes, and clothing. Greek historian Herodotus mentioned the use of hemp by the Scythians for both recreational and ritualistic purposes.
Hemp in Europe and the Americas
Hemp continued to spread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages and became a mainstream crop for many civilizations. It was particularly valued for its strong fibers, which were essential for making durable ropes and sails for ships.
In the 16th century, European settlers introduced hemp to the Americas. It quickly became an important crop in the colonies, with both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson advocating for its cultivation. Hemp was widely used for making paper, textiles, and rope in the early United States.
20th Century and Modern Revival
The 20th century saw a decline in hemp cultivation due to the rise of synthetic fibers and changing legal regulations. The Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 in the United States heavily restricted the production of hemp, associating it with its psychoactive counterpart, marijuana.
However, in recent years, there has been a revival of interest in hemp due to its sustainability and versatility. The 2018 Farm Bill in the United States legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp, which led to a resurgence in hemp farming and research.
What is Hemp Used For?
Today, not only in India but across the globe, hemp is being widely used:
- Clothing: Hemp fabric is durable, breathable, and eco-friendly.
- Food Products: Hemp seeds and oil are packed with nutrients.
- Skincare: Hemp oil is used in lotions, balms, and soaps for its moisturizing properties.
- Building Materials: Hempcrete, a concrete-like material, is used in sustainable construction.
- Bioplastics: Hemp is being explored as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
What is Hemp Fiber?
Hemp fiber is one of the strongest and most durable natural fibers to exist on the planet. It has been used for centuries in various applications, including:
Textiles
Hemp fabric has exceptional strength, durability, and breathability. Unlike cotton, hemp fibers are longer and more robust and can withstand significant wear and tear. Thus, it’s often used for clothing, bags, and shoes that are designed to last.
Additionally, hemp is naturally resistant to mold and ultraviolet light, which adds to its durability. Its breathability ensures comfort, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s also a sustainable textile choice as it requires less water and fewer pesticides compared to cotton.
Rope and Cordage
Historically, sailors relied on hemp ropes for rigging and mooring due to their resistance to saltwater and general wear and tear. These ropes have a natural resistance to rot and mold.
Today, hemp ropes are still used in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and even for recreational purposes like rock climbing and boating. The fibers of the hemp plant provide the tensile strength that makes these ropes long-lasting.
Paper
Hemp paper has a much longer lifespan, often lasting hundreds of years without degrading, compared to the 25-100 years for wood pulp paper. The process of making hemp paper is also more environmentally friendly, as hemp can be grown quickly and requires fewer chemicals for processing.
Historically, hemp paper has been used for important documents and books due to its durability and resistance to decomposition. With the growing focus on sustainability, hemp paper is becoming an attractive alternative for eco-conscious consumers and businesses.
What are Hemp Seeds?
Hemp seeds are highly nutritious and offer a range of health benefits. They are rich in essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. You can find hemp seeds in various forms:
- Whole Seeds: Great for adding to salads and smoothies.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Used for cooking and skincare.
- Hemp Protein Powder: Popular among athletes and health enthusiasts for its high protein content.
Is Hemp Legal in India?
The legal status of hemp in India is complex. While industrial hemp cultivation is permitted under certain regulations, the laws vary by state. In 2018, the Indian government allowed the cultivation of hemp for research purposes and industrial use in Uttarakhand.
Other states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have also shown interest in hemp cultivation. However, we suggest going ahead and still checking out the local laws and regulations before engaging in hemp-related activities.
