A Modern Introduction to Hemp: from food to fibre - past, present and future.
by Paul Benhaim
Hemp is one of the world's most remarkable natural resources, producing a staggering array of foods, fuels and fibres - the basic building blocks for an industrial society, all from a single plant source. Hemp is a superior source of fibre for clothing, paper, plastics and permanent building materials, and oil for methanol fuels and a myriad of cleaning and paint products.
As a commercial crop, hemp requires no pesticides to grow, improves soil structure, and is more efficient and sustainable than conventional forestry. Hemp is widely considered the 'perfect renewable resource', as it can be grown throughout the world (to maturity in under 100 days), all year round.
The healing and pain-relieving powers of Hemp are legendary. Claimed by many to be a 'superfood', hemp seeds provide an excellent source of protein and beneficial fatty acids (Omega-3, 6 and 9). Hempseed Oil is renowned for its moisturising and rejuvenating qualities and is used in fine cosmetics and soaps, as well as many skin, hair and body products. In short, the diverse uses and beneficial qualities of hemp are unsurpassed in the plant kingdom.
Industrial hemp offers a promising alternative to petrochemical-based plastics, creative and environmentally friendly building materials, hemp hurds (for cleaning and absorbing industrial waste, effluent and oil spills), a cheap source of diesel fuel and a low-cost/high-yield product well suited for developing nations to create and maintain a stable economy.
Paul Benhaim is a recognised world-authority in hemp research and development, as well as a published author of Hemp-related books and DVDs. He manages the world's most popular hemp websites and advises a number of international hemp production companies. As CEO of two cutting edge Hemp R&D/Manufacturing companies, Paul continues his quest to improved recipes, formulas and production capabilities to bring new and revolutionary hemp products to a worldwide audience.
