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Hemp is one of the oldest known plants cultivated for an industrial purpose. It can be traces all the way back to 8000 BC in the Middle East and China. The fiber from the hemp plant was used to make a variety of textiles, and the seeds were eaten. Hemp has a long history of being very versatile and very useful. The Latin name, Cannabis sativa, means useful, so this little plant most definately lives up to its name. Hemp is used in thousands of items and commodities.

1. The Uses For Hemp

- Sails
- Canvas
- Nets
- Rigging
- Clothes
- Paper
- Twine
- And much more

2. Hemp The Amazing Plant

Hemp isn't the same as Marijuana. Hemp only looks like its cousin - the two are very dissimilar in nature. Hemp is tall and most of the leaves are at the top and grow very close together. In addition, hemp can be grown in almost any condition and requires little care. It grows easily and quickly.

3. 10 Uses For Hemp

Food

Hemp can be used in lots of recipes and give food an added health punch. Salad oil can be made from hemp and the seeds can be eaten as nuts or added to baked goods. Hemp is high in amino acids and has healthy oil content and essential fatty acids, that are vital to diet. Hemp seed can be crushed into oil or processed into flour.

Pet Food

This plant is also a healthy protein for animals. It can give cats a rich and shiny coat. Cats, dogs, horses and cows can all eat hemp as a dietary supplement. Birds also enjoy eating hemp seed. The hemp plant contains essential proteins, Vitamin A and is easily digested.

Pet Bedding

The hemp plant is extremely absorbent making it ideal for using as pet bedding for rats, guinea pigs and other rodents and for cat litter.

Body Oil and Lotions

Oil from the hemp plant makes it a good choice for lotions and body oils. The EFA content helps regenerate dry and cracked skin making it an excellent moisturizer.

Oil

In the past, hemp oil was used for lanterns, candles and paint. Hemp requires no fertilizer, pesticides or fungicide to grow. Hemp oil can be made into nearly any product requiring oil, including oil based paints. Paint made of hemp last longer and is more durable. Products made of hemp are also nontoxic and can be disposed of without harm to the environment.

Clothing

Hemp is a great source for textiles and clothing. The fibers require less toxic chemicals and water to grow than cotton. Hemp also lasts for years and is naturally resistant to UV light, mold and mildew. Big name labels are now using hemp fibers for clothing including Armani, Disney, Ralph Lauren, Adidas and Calvin Klein.

Plastic

Biodegradable hemp plastic products can help reduce landfills. Hemp was used in the past as packing material and is now being used for making products such as CD jewel cases.

Paper

Paper made from hemp is both economical and good for the environment. Because fewer trees are used, using hemp for paper helps protect forests and wildlife. Hemp requires less bleaching, that is a source of water pollution.

Building Materials

The hemp plant makes strong and sturdy building materials. Hemp cement is made using core fiber and minerals. Hemp bales can be used in straw baling. Homes made of hemp are strong and weather resistant. They can even withstand a tornado with little or no damage. It is estimated that building a structure using hemp would save thousands of dollars and be more environmentally friendly.

Fuel

One of the more interesting uses for hemp is in fuel. Bio-diesel is becoming quite a big name in the petrolium industry. Hemp also produces more ethanol than corn per acre - quite an incredible feat.