What is hemp?

Hemp is one of the oldest and most versatile varieties of the cannabis plant, cultivated for centuries for its fibre, seeds and therapeutic properties. Although it belongs to the same species as marijuana, hemp is characterised by its low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effect. This makes it a safe and legal plant for use in numerous sectors, from the textile to the food industry.

Breaking down the concept: What is hemp?

Hemp is an annual herbaceous plant , part of the cannabis sativa family, grown primarily for its long, strong fibers and nutrient-rich seeds. Its low THC level, generally less than 0.2% in Europe, distinguishes it from other cannabis varieties used for recreational purposes. Due to its non-psychoactive composition, hemp is used in multiple applications, making it a sustainable and highly functional raw material .

This plant is also a symbol of sustainability in the agricultural world. Thanks to its rapid growth and its ability to regenerate soil , hemp is considered an environmentally friendly option for industrial production. In addition, every part of the plant has a practical use: the fiber for textiles and paper, the seeds for healthy foods, and the oils for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Is hemp really a sativa?

Yes, hemp belongs to the Cannabis sativa L. species , known for its tall and thin growth compared to other varieties such as indica. Although it shares morphological characteristics with other cannabis plants, genetic differences and its low THC content make hemp unique in its use and regulation. On the other hand, its structure and adaptability make it an ideal plant for industrial cultivation.

Differences between hemp and marijuana

Although hemp and marijuana come from the same species, Cannabis sativa , their differences are significant and fundamental. The main distinction lies in their THC content: hemp has less than 0.2% of this compound, while marijuana contains much higher levels, which causes psychoactive effects. For this reason, hemp is used in industrial rather than recreational applications.

In terms of cultivation, hemp is a more versatile and easy-to-grow plant . It tolerates different climates and soils, and its growth cycle is fast, making it ideal for commercial purposes. On the other hand, marijuana requires more controlled and specific conditions to maximize its THC and terpene content.

Appearance is also a differentiating factor. While hemp is tall and thin, with more widely spaced leaves, marijuana tends to be more compact and bushy. This is due to the different cultivation objectives: fibers in hemp and flowers in marijuana .

As for uses, hemp has a much wider range. It is used in the manufacture of textiles, paper, bioplastics, food, cosmetics and CBD- rich supplements . Marijuana, on the other hand, focuses primarily on its medicinal and recreational applications.

Finally, the legal framework distinguishes them. While hemp is legal in most countries due to its low THC content, marijuana is more strictly regulated. In Europe, for example, laws allow the cultivation of industrial hemp as long as it does not exceed 0.2 % THC .

What are the most common uses of hemp?

Hemp has revolutionized the CBD industry , establishing itself as the leading source of this non-psychoactive compound that is transforming the health and wellness landscape. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, making it a safe and accessible option for people seeking therapeutic benefits without mental disturbances. Extracted primarily from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants, CBD has gained a prominent place in alternative medicine.

CBD-rich hemp is the mainstay of numerous products such as sublingual oils , capsules, topical creams, gummies, and concentrated extracts. These products are used to alleviate health problems such as anxiety, stress, insomnia, and chronic pain , offering a natural alternative to conventional medications. Additionally, research has pointed to its potential to help with more complex disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson's, or multiple sclerosis, underscoring the versatility and effectiveness of CBD .

Another aspect that stands out is the absence of serious side effects , which has boosted its adoption by a wider audience. Hemp-derived CBD is also being investigated for its ability to act as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and regulator of the nervous system, becoming an ally for people with various health conditions. All of this has made hemp an essential plant for well-being in the 21st century.

In the realm of general well-being, more and more people are using CBD products as part of their daily routine. Its relaxing properties help combat stress and accumulated fatigue, while its topical application is ideal for treating skin problems such as eczema, acne or irritations. These benefits, together with its natural and legal nature , have positioned hemp and CBD as key elements in the personal care and alternative medicine industry .

Finally, the rise of hemp in the CBD industry has also boosted its legal cultivation in many parts of the world. The demand for plants with high levels of CBD and low THC content has led to specific genetic developments, optimizing the production of this therapeutic compound. This has generated a sustainable and growing economy , where hemp not only contributes to individual health, but also to environmental and economic well-being.

Other uses of hemp

Hemp has a wide range of applications, standing out for its versatility. In the textile industry, it is used to make clothes, ropes and resistant fabrics . Its fiber is more durable and ecological compared to materials such as cotton, which makes it an excellent option for those looking for sustainable alternatives.

In the food sector, hemp seeds are highly valued for their protein content, essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6, and other nutrients. These seeds are used in products such as oils, flours and snacks, positioning them as a superfood in healthy diets.

Hemp is also essential in the cosmetics industry. Its oil, extracted from the seeds, is rich in antioxidants and moisturizing properties , making it ideal for making creams, soaps and skin care products. In addition, it contains CBD, a compound with relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects.

In the industrial field, hemp is used in the production of bioplastics, construction materials and paper . Its cultivation requires less water and pesticides than other raw materials, which significantly reduces its environmental impact. This makes it a key option for industries looking for more sustainable processes.

Hemp is an ancient plant with enormous potential thanks to its versatility and sustainability. From the textile to the food industry, its multiple uses make it an essential raw material for the future . In addition, its low THC content ensures that it is a legal and safe option in many parts of the world.

Do you want to explore everything hemp has to offer? At Grow Industry , we have products and tools to help you grow and get the most out of this amazing plant.