Origin and use of hemp:

Hemp is a species of plant from the hemp family, originating from Central Asia. They have been cultivated for thousands of years (in China already 10,000 years ago) for medical, food and textile purposes.

Main cannabis varieties:

There are three main varieties of cannabis:

Hemp (Cannabis Sativa): Also called industrial or fiber hemp. Contains trace amounts of THC, does not cause psychoactive effects. Cultivated for fiber (textiles, paper), biofuel, building materials, food (seeds, oil) and cosmetics.
Cannabis Indica: Contains the most THC of all varieties. Used medicinally and recreationally due to its psychoactive properties.
Cannabis Ruderalis (Cannabis Ruderalis): Grows wild in wasteland. Low THC content, high resistance. Used in mixtures with other varieties.

Differences in chemical composition:

The chemical composition of cannabis may vary depending on the variety, strain, growing conditions and climate. Tropical and equatorial varieties may have different proportions of cannabinoids and terpenes than varieties growing in temperate climates.

Hemp properties:

Hemp has many valuable properties, including:

Medical: Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiemetic, appetite stimulant.
Food: Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Hemp seeds and oil are a valuable addition to the diet.
Textile: Strong, durable, biodegradable. Used to produce clothes, rope, sails and paper.
Ecological: They absorb CO2, reduce soil erosion, and support biodiversity.

Cannabis strains:

Within each cannabis variety, there are many strains that differ from each other, including: appearance, smell, taste and cannabinoid content.

Hemp origin:

An important factor influencing the properties of hemp is its origin. Hemp from different regions of the world may have different characteristics.

Summary:

Hemp is a plant with a rich history and a wide range of uses. Different varieties and strains of hemp have different properties, which make them a valuable raw material in many areas of life.

Hemp: varieties and their uses

Cannabis Indica:

It contains the most THC of all cannabis varieties.
It has psychoactive properties, used, among others, to treat pain, nausea, anxiety and depression.
It is the subject of many scientific studies that confirm its therapeutic potential.
The body's reaction to THC may be individual, and studies on animals and humans are sometimes contradictory.

Hemp (Cannabis Sativa):

Contains trace amounts of THC, does not cause psychoactive effects.
Also called industrial or fiber hemp.
Cultivated as a biodegradable raw material for the production of clothes, ropes, sails and paper.
Used to produce paints, impregnations, cosmetics, food (oil, seeds, flour).
Used in folk medicine and as a natural insect repellent.

Past uses of hemp:

Production of textiles, ropes, sails, paper.
Production of paints and wood impregnations.
Creating ointments for the skin and accelerating the healing of wounds.
Production of cooking oil, tea, flour.
Adding to baked goods and eating fresh seeds.
Brewing hemp beer.
Use in folk medicine.
Use as a natural insect repellent.

Hemp Ruderalis: Characteristics and Uses

Cannabis Ruderalis, i.e. wild hemp:

The name comes from natural habitats such as rubble and wasteland.
It is smaller in size compared to Indica and Sativa varieties.
Contains less THC than Indica.
It is characterized by high resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions.
It has an auto-flowering feature, which means that it blooms after a certain time, regardless of the photoperiod (day length) and temperature. These factors are crucial for the flowering of Indica and Sativa strains.

Wild hemp uses:

Mainly used in mixtures with other varieties to obtain:
- Plants more resistant to environmental stresses.
- Strains with auto-flowering properties.
Used in research on hemp genetics.

Additional information:

Wild hemp is an important source of resistance and autoflowering genes for hemp breeders.
In Poland, wild hemp grows wild throughout the country.
Growing wild hemp for commercial purposes is regulated by law and may require a permit.

Properties of hemp: benefits for the environment, health and beauty

Hemp is a unique plant with many valuable properties that make it useful in various areas of life.

Environmentally friendly cultivation:

Natural Pesticides: Hemp has fungicidal, moldicidal and insect repellent properties, eliminating the need to use harmful herbicides and pesticides.
Resistance to conditions: It grows in a variety of soils, preferring loose and nitrogen-rich ones, but it can cope even in barren and flooded areas. Does not require fertilization.
Ecological raw materials: Hemp cultivation is environmentally friendly and allows you to obtain chemical-free raw materials.

Universal fiber:

Healthy and biodegradable: Hemp fibers are delicate, breathable and extremely durable.
Wide range of applications: Hemp is used to produce clothes (from underwear to outerwear), ropes, sails, paper and much more.
Durability: Hemp products are durable and wear-resistant.

Valuable oils and extracts:

Natural care: Hemp oil and extracts regulate sebum secretion, moisturize and soothe irritations.
Healing properties: They have anti-inflammatory, regenerating and anti-itching properties, supporting wound healing and relieving muscle and joint pain.
Cosmetic uses: They are a valuable ingredient of massage oils, creams and other cosmetics, strengthening hair and skin.
Safety: They can be used even by infants, allergy sufferers and people with sensitive skin.

Additional properties:

Hemp flowers have an anesthetic and swelling-relieving effect.
Hemp is a source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
Hemp seeds can be eaten or used to produce cooking oil.

Hemp is a plant with enormous potential, offering a wide range of environmental, health and beauty benefits. Its natural properties and versatile applications make it a valuable raw material for many industries.

Hemp food: a wealth of nutrients for health and beauty

Hemp has been known for its numerous properties for centuries. In recent years, hemp food has become increasingly popular as it is a valuable source of nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the body.

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids:

Hemp food is rich in essential fatty acids (EFAs) , especially omega-3 and omega-6 acids, the proportions of which are ideal for human health. EFAs perform many important functions, including:

Building blocks: They are part of cell membranes and nervous tissue.
Regulatory: They influence blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart and circulatory system diseases.
Anti-inflammatory: They reduce inflammation in the body, which may protect against many diseases, including cancer.
Strengthening immunity: They support the functioning of the immune system and protect against infections.
Improving brain function: DHA is essential for the proper development and functioning of the brain and nervous system.

Terpenes – aromatic substances with many properties:

Hemp food also contains terpenes , aromatic compounds responsible for the characteristic smell of hemp. Terpenes have many health-promoting properties, including:

Antioxidant: Protect cells against damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-inflammatory: Relieves inflammation in the body.
Antibacterial and antifungal: They destroy bacteria and fungi.
Analgesic: Relieves pain and inflammation.
Calming: Promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Flavonoids – natural dyes with antioxidant properties:

Hemp food is rich in flavonoids , organic compounds that give plants their color. Flavonoids have strong antioxidant properties, protecting cells against damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, flavonoids:

Strengthen blood vessels: Reduce the risk of heart and circulatory system diseases.
Anti-inflammatory: They reduce inflammation in the body.
Supports immunity: They strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.

Vitamins and minerals essential for health:

Hemp food is a rich source of vitamins and minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Includes:

Vitamins: A, C, E, D, K, from group B.
Minerals: Magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, potassium.

Vitamins and minerals perform many important functions in the body, including:

Strengthen immunity: Protect against infections.
They support the functioning of the nervous system: They improve concentration and memory.
Regulate hormonal balance: They maintain hormonal balance in the body.
Strengthen bones and teeth: They provide ingredients necessary for the construction and regeneration of bones and teeth.
They improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails: They give them a healthy look and shine.

Amino acids – the building blocks of proteins:

Hemp food is a valuable source of amino acids , i.e. the basic building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are essential for:

Tissue structure and regeneration: Muscles, bones, skin, hair and nails.
Production of hormones and enzymes: Responsible for many important functions in the body.
Immunity Boosts: Protect against infections.

Industrial Applications of Hemp: A Sustainable Future for Various Industries

Hemp, a plant with a rich history and a wide range of applications, is gaining increasing interest from various industries. Their properties and potential make them a promising alternative to many traditional materials and technologies, contributing to building a more sustainable future.

1. Textile Industry:

Hemp fiber has many characteristics similar to flax, which makes it an attractive material for the textile industry. The European Commission, in its Circular Economy Action Plan, lists the textile sector as one of the key areas of transformation towards a greener and more sustainable economy. The search for new materials and business models is encouraged, and hemp fits perfectly into this trend.

2. Food and Feed:

Hemp seeds are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, Omega-3 acids and minerals. Hulled seeds are a valuable food ingredient for humans, while whole seeds are used as animal feed.

3. Construction:

Due to its energy-saving properties, hemp fiber is used in construction in the form of lime concrete, hemp wool and fiberboard insulation. The construction sector, responsible for a significant share of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, is looking for CO2-neutral or carbon sequestering solutions. Hempcrete, being a carbon absorber, perfectly fits these needs.

4. Paper Production:

Hemp fiber is perfect for paper production. Hemp stalks only take 5 months to grow, and the production of hemp paper does not require the use of toxic bleaching agents. Additionally, this paper can be recycled 7-8 times.

5. Other Applications:

Hemp products are used in many other industries. Due to their lightness and durability, they are an excellent alternative to plastic, used, among others, in the automotive, railway, aviation and space industries.

Hemp is also a valuable raw material in the cosmetics industry (oils, balms, shampoos) as well as in the energy sector (biofuels). There is great interest in the production and sale of hemp extracts, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), due to its potential use in cosmetics, health products and food. However, please remember that these uses are subject to strict EU regulations.

The Future of the Cannabis Industry:

Hemp offers a wide range of opportunities for various industries, contributing to the development of a sustainable economy. Their properties, potential and growing popularity place them at the forefront of promising raw materials of the future.