Fact Checked by Doctor NameWhat is Hemp?
Hemp refers to cannabis cultivars that contain 0.3% or less THC by dry weight. Unlike marijuana, hemp is bred specifically for industrial uses rather than psychoactive effects.
Hemp has a long history of providing fiber for textiles, rope, paper, and other materials. The seeds can be processed for nutritional oil and hemp milk. The plant material itself has applications as animal bedding or building insulation.
Interest in hemp declined as cotton and synthetics dominated industries. However, hemp is resurging as both manufacturers and consumers turn to more sustainable plant-based sources. Its value lies in its fast growth, low water usage, and biodegradability.
Hemp farming and products remain tightly regulated. All hemp must be verified to have negligible THC. While hemp offers environmental and economic opportunities, confusion with its cannabis cousin poses hurdles.
