8 Facts About The Hemp Plant

Get facts about the hemp plant and how hemp farming positively impacts the planet.

#1  Hemp and marijuana are not created equal

Both hemp and marijuana are apart of the cannabis plant family. The plants look similar, however, they contain different cannabinoid profiles that have different effects. 

The hemp plant belongs to the Cannabis sativa L species and contains trace amounts of the psychoactive compound, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The tiny amount of THC found in hemp are generally not enough to cause psychoactive effects. However, some sensitive individuals may feel slight psychoactive effects if they take full spectrum hemp products in high doses. 

 

#2 Hemp won’t get you high

Marijuana contains anywhere from 5% to 20% THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid. 

Hemp plants contain minuscule amounts of THC and are rich in cannabidiol (CBD), the cannabinoid that contains many therapeutic benefits without producing psychoactive effects. Hemp extracts and any hemp products sold in the U.S. must have less than 0.3% THC to be legal. Studies have shown that CBD counteracts the psychoactivity of THC. 

If you take a full spectrum hemp extract or smoke hemp, you most likely would not feel a buzz or high due to the ratio of CBD to THC. Studies have shown that CBD naturally counteracts the trace amounts of THC from having any psychoactive effect.

 

#3  CBD, THC, and many other cannabinoids are in hemp 

The hemp plant contains a wide variety of cannabinoids. Scientists have determined there are over 100 cannabinoids in hemp. These diverse cannabinoids act on CB receptors in cells that repress neurotransmitter release in the brain.

The most studied and sought after cannabinoids are CBD and THC. Hemp plants are rich in CBD, the active compound that communicates with receptors in the body to maintain homeostasis in our endocannabinoid system.

 

#4  Hemp is legal in the U.S.

Hemp supplements and products produced from hemp are legal in all 50 states, however, laws and regulations about growing hemp very state to state. In 2018 the Farm Bill passed, which legalized all hemp and CBD products in all 50 U.S. states. Hemp extracts and CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC to comply with federal CBD laws. However CBD and hemp laws are changing fast and each state has the final say on whether CBD products can be cultivated and bought within their state lines.

Strainz CBD hemp extracts are made from high quality Colorado grown industrial hemp and contain 0.3% or less of THC, compliant with federal regulations. 

 

#5   Hemp can be used to make over 25,000 products.

Food, fibers, oils, textiles, paper, beauty products, plastics, you name it; hemp can be used to make it! Modern-day technologies are discovering new ways to use hemp, an incredibly versatile plant. Hemp has so much potential to replace common resources we use in everyday life.

 

#6  Hemp has great health benefits 

Hemp seeds and hemp oil are a great natural source of essential vitamins such as magnesium, iron, and vitamin E. It is also a healthy fat source rich in omega-3 and omega-6s. Hemp is used in a variety of plant based protein powders and dairy-free substitute products for vegans and vegetarians. Hemp seeds are a great topping for salads, yogurt, cereals, granola, and smoothies. Hemp oil can be used in the kitchen too, though it should not be used for high heat cooking. (It makes a great salad dressing!) Hemp seed oil has wonderful skincare benefits as well and has recently grown in popularity as a natural beauty product. It can nourish and replenish sensitive, dry skin and is gentle enough for faces.

 

#7  CBD is a natural aid for many health conditions 

The most popular cannabinoid in hemp is CBD. It has received a lot of attention for its widespread benefits throughout the body and therapeutic effects. Its primary mechanism of action is to balance the body’s major functions, including the immune system, cell regulation, mood, stress, appetite, and pain. CBD is becoming a hot research point as extensive evidence shows it to support critically ill people. Many people are using CBD to relieve chronic pain, seizures, arthritis, and improve their overall quality of life.

 

#8  Hemp is great for the environment

When the farm bill passed in 2018, it started a wave of hemp production across the U.S. Growing hemp plants has surprising benefits for the environment. Studies show that hemp plants absorb five times more carbon dioxide than trees and only take 3-4 months to mature. It also naturally cleanses the soil it grows in by returning nitrogen and nutrients back to the earth.

Hemp is a low water plant that can thrive in almost any climate and soil type. Hemp grows hearty and healthy without the use of chemicals, fertilizers, fungicides, and herbicides. Growing hemp has so many benefits, L.A Times’ tip to American farmers is to grow hemp. 

 

The uses of hemp are so diverse, and it has a lot of potential to replace toxic products we use in everyday life. We hope to see hemp utilized more as it will provide a more sustainable, greener future for the generations ahead. By supporting hemp farming and using hemp-based products, you contribute to a more eco-friendly environment.

 

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