The fibrous stalks of the hemp plant have countless uses and the seeds are packed with protein. Here are 5 of the top ways that it can be utilized.
Sure, CBD oil is all the rage — especially now that hemp production is legal in the U.S. — but there’s a lot more to (quite possibly) the world’s most versatile plant than the flowers.
CBD cannot be found in the seeds or stalks of the hemp plant, except in very small amounts from incidental residue during growing and harvest. And to be considered hemp, the plant’s flowers must be under a very small percentage of THC.
Flowers aside, however, there is much to love and respect. The fibrous stalks have countless uses and the seeds are packed with protein. Here are 5 of the top uses for hemp outside of tinctures, gummies and salves.
Paper
We could drastically cut back on deforestation if hemp was used to make paper instead of trees. An acre of hemp produces as much paper as four acres of trees every year, it can be grown multiple times, over and over, on the same plot of land. Now that hemp is legal to grow in the U.S. it would be a shame to not utilize this oxygen producing power plant.
Hempcrete
Made with woody hemp hurds which are harvested from the stalks of hemp plants, hempcrete is a strong, insulating and moisture regulating material used for both construction and insulation. Because it is lighter weight than other lime based building materials, and for its other positive traits, it is gaining popularity around the world. France has been using hempcrete since the ‘90’s and its use increases with each passing year.
RELATED: USDA Releases Hemp Rules
Stronger Than Steel
There are two strength measurements when it comes to materials, that is mend and bend and crack and break. Hemp can withstand around twice the weight of steel before it cracks and breaks as well as mending and bending six times better. Fields of hemp are good for the soil, excellent for the environment and provide so much extra market versatility.
Nutrition
Shelled hemp seeds are an excellent way to introduce more plant protein and Omega fatty acids into your diet. Sprinkle them on cereal, mix them into salads, add them to your smoothies or just munch on the healthy, nutty little treats. They’re considered a superfood and add a nice touch to countless dishes.
RELATED: Hemp Is A Natural Superfood With These 7 Extraordinary Boosters
Clothing And Other Fabrics
Hemp fabric has come a long way in the last century and is now just as soft and even more durable than cotton. Plus, hemp has natural pesticides and anti-fungal properties and don’t require pesticides or other chemicals, whereas cotton is typically grown with loads of pesticides. Hemp clothing as a domestic product could go as mainstream as cannabis itself, giving a boost to farmers fiscally and otherwise across the country.
