Did you know that February 4th is National Hemp Day? In response to the skyrocketing popularity of hemp after the 2018 Farm Bill was passed, National Hemp Day was started in 2019 to spread awareness of hemp plants and their many uses. It is the one day where American cannabis enthusiasts all over the country acknowledge the history and celebrate the remarkable plant and its many uses.
Because of its relation to marijuana plants, hemp plants are often misunderstood and avoided. However, hemp is a hardy, versatile Cannabis sativa plant that has uses in numerous industries such as textile, construction, food and feed, and paper.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this fascinating plant and share some updates on the rapidly growing hemp industry.
History and Significance of National Hemp Day
As mentioned earlier, the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill that effectively legalized hemp skyrocketed the industry into unprecedented growth. However, awareness of hemp and its uses were still limited, so in 2019, cbdMD started National Hemp Day on February 4.
Although the day was only started in 2019, the US had already been using hemp for centuries prior, when the Puritans brought hemp to New England in 1645.
Since then, hemp use flourished and spread to other states like Virginia, Kentucky, and Missouri. George Washington was going to cultivate hemp as a cash crop but then decided to grow it for use on his own plantation. He grew hemp on all five of his farms that make up Mount Vernon, using it for repairing nets, and as thread for sewing sacks and canvas.
However, 1937 saw an increase in regulatory control over cannabis plants, and the Marihuana Tax Act was signed that year, taxing incoming and outgoing cannabis.
The Tax Act was supposed to reduce the use of marijuana plants with psychoactive properties, and hemp plants got caught in the crossfire and were similarly regulated, making the production less economical.
Fast forward to 2018 when finally, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production and sale of hemp plants and products containing less than 0.03% THC.
Industrial and Environmental Benefits of Hemp
Hemp is an incredibly versatile plant with countless applications. Fibers can be woven into textiles, creating durable fabrics that surpass some synthetic counterparts. Hemp can also be used in construction, paper production, and wellness applications.
However, where hemp shines is in its environmental sustainability. The plants are hardy, tough plants that require minimal pesticides, often improving soil health. The plant grows rapidly, allowing for a source of sustainable construction materials like hempcrete.
Using hemp in the place of other materials such as plastic and wood reduces our reliance on resource-intensive alternatives and damaging environmental impact.
Current Trends and Innovations in Hemp Industry
The hemp industry continues its rapid evolution and innovative products and technologies are more available than ever before. Innovations in cultivation, extraction, and improvements in equipment are all geared towards increasing the efficiency of hemp production.
In fashion, designers weave hemp fibers into sustainable textiles, creating eco-friendly alternatives to fast fashion. As mentioned earlier, the construction sector is embracing a switch to hemp-based materials like hempcrete which offers a greener alternative to traditional materials.
Those interested in wellness have been jumping on the CBD bandwagon, as CBD (cannabidiol) is the key cannabinoid in hemp. CBD-infused products including oils, tinctures, supplements, and skincare items continue to dominate the market as millions seek natural alternatives for wellness.
Advancements and Challenges in the Hemp Industry
The hemp industry has been growing by leaps and bounds over the last few years. Legislation is constantly evolving, allowing for increased production and showing great promise economically.
However, there is still a small, but significant lingering stigma associated with hemp and its association with marijuana poses challenges. Education and public awareness efforts are necessary to dispel myths and misconceptions.
The rapidly growing industry also faces some quality challenges as unscrupulous manufacturers market certain products falsely. For example, all CBD products must undergo third-party lab testing for potency and purity, but not all manufacturers comply.
In addition, hemp companies often face financial challenges due to the plant’s association with cannabis, and securing essential services remains an ongoing hurdle for the industry.
The Legal and Regulatory Landscape of Hemp Farming
The legal and regulatory landscape is delicately balanced between innovation and compliance. While hemp is enjoying explosive growth since legalization, its cultivation remains bound by stringent regulations and permit requirements.
While these stringent rules are crucial to ensure quality, they also have a profound impact on hemp farmers, cultivators, and other industry stakeholders who often bear hefty administration and quality control expenses. These costs remain a barrier to small-scale businesses who might be hesitant to enter the industry.
Future of Hemp: Sustainable Practices and Industry Growth
As mentioned earlier, hemp is one of the most sustainable crops around. Tough and hardy, the plants require minimal pesticides and will not degrade the soil quality like many other plants. In contrast, the extensive root system of the plant can help prevent erosion and compaction, improving overall soil health.
In addition, the plant requires less water and its rapid growth provides businesses with a sustainable, renewable source of materials. Hemp fibers are used to create textiles, papers, and biodegradable plastics, reducing our reliance on environmentally damaging materials.
Final Thoughts
While relatively new, National Hemp Day is an important milestone in hemp in America’s history, promoting and celebrating the versatile plant and its diverse applications.
Ready to explore this fascinating plant? Check out our hemp-derived CBD products at FabCBD. From gummies and oils to tinctures, topics and even CBD for pets, we have it all, so come celebrate National Hemp Day with us!
