Hemp is one of the most misunderstood plants in the United States. Some people view hemp as dangerous and worthy of being criminalized. Others consider hemp an amazing plant with vast potential for healing and health. As with most things, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. A factual understanding of hemp and its history can help everyone make more informed choices and opinions about this fascinating plant.
First things first: what is hemp?
Before exploring the interesting history of hemp in the United States, it’s vital to understand a few definitions. Hemp, also known as Cannabis sativa is a species of plant in the genus Cannabis. Marijuana, or Cannabis indica, is also a species of the same genus. Unlike marijuana, hemp has a minimal amount of THC, the chemical that produces a high when marijuana is eaten or inhaled. According to the North American Industrial Hemp Council, industrial hemp contains roughly 0.5-1% THC. By contrast, marijuana may contain anywhere from 3% to 25% THC. Hemp does contain high levels of CBD, a chemical that does not produce any mind-altering effects and, in fact, is thought to antagonize or block the psychoactive effects of THC. CBD is thought to provide many benefits to the immune system, nervous system, and other bodily systems, making it a valuable compound in its own right. The bottom line? Hemp plants can …show more content…
Some evidence suggests that hemp has been cultivated for over 12,000 years due to its usefulness for making fiber and food. It can be used to produce things like paper, fabric, rope, canvass, and food, to name just a few. One of the oldest known human artifacts is a piece of fabric made of hemp that dates back approximately 8,000 years. Hemp rope, hemp seeds and leaves, and hemp paper have been found at ancient sites dating back hundreds of years before common era.
Hemp in early
First things first: what is hemp?
Before exploring the interesting history of hemp in the United States, it’s vital to understand a few definitions. Hemp, also known as Cannabis sativa is a species of plant in the genus Cannabis. Marijuana, or Cannabis indica, is also a species of the same genus. Unlike marijuana, hemp has a minimal amount of THC, the chemical that produces a high when marijuana is eaten or inhaled. According to the North American Industrial Hemp Council, industrial hemp contains roughly 0.5-1% THC. By contrast, marijuana may contain anywhere from 3% to 25% THC. Hemp does contain high levels of CBD, a chemical that does not produce any mind-altering effects and, in fact, is thought to antagonize or block the psychoactive effects of THC. CBD is thought to provide many benefits to the immune system, nervous system, and other bodily systems, making it a valuable compound in its own right. The bottom line? Hemp plants can …show more content…
Some evidence suggests that hemp has been cultivated for over 12,000 years due to its usefulness for making fiber and food. It can be used to produce things like paper, fabric, rope, canvass, and food, to name just a few. One of the oldest known human artifacts is a piece of fabric made of hemp that dates back approximately 8,000 years. Hemp rope, hemp seeds and leaves, and hemp paper have been found at ancient sites dating back hundreds of years before common era.
Hemp in early