The current federal law on hemp (defined as cannabis containing 0.3 percent THC or less) is the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, commonly known as the 2018 Farm Bill. This legislation removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and made hemp an agricultural commodity.
As a result of the 2018 Farm Bill, it is now legal to grow hemp, transport hemp, sell and purchase hemp products, and possess hemp products in the U.S. However, the hemp industry is subject to specific regulations, such as required registration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Additionally, some states still have regulations on the cultivation, sale, and possession of hemp products.
Here we go…
Hemp is a type of cannabis
sativa, a species of cannabis plant, and a lot of CBD products can be derived from hemp. Hemp has a unique phytochemical composition, including high concentrations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds.
It has traditionally been used for various commercial and industrial applications, including ropes, textiles, paper, and clothing.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound in hemp known for its medicinal properties. While hemp contains high amounts of CBD, it also has over a hundred other cannabinoids, including THC, CBG, and CBN, all known to provide therapeutic benefits. CBD is not psychoactive or non-addictive, so it is a good choice for those looking for relief without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Cannabis sativa can have high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) - the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. CBD is the second-most prevalent active ingredient in the cannabis plant. It does not contain significant amounts of THC and does not have any psychoactive effects. CBD is typically used for its therapeutic properties, including relief from anxiety and inflammation.
Hemp is an annually cultivated plant, typically grown for its fibrous
stalks, edible seeds and oil, and medical and industrial use.
It has been cultivated in the United States for centuries for its industrial use, primarily for rope, twine, and textiles. Hemp seed oil is also noted for its healthy fatty acid content and is sought after today by plant-based dieters looking for a natural source of Omega 3 and 6.
Besides its industrial use, hemp plays a vital role in the beauty industry. Hemp seed oil is known to help hydrate, combat dry scalp and even treat eczema due to its high content of essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3. It's also used as an ingredient in products such as lotions and body care items.
In addition to its acceptance in the beauty industry, hemp is being utilized more and more in the food industry as a source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Hemp seeds, for example, can be used in cereals, smoothies, loaves of bread, and other recipes - or just eaten on their own as a snack.
Hemp is also becoming popular in medical research circles. It's becoming recognized as a natural remedy for many ailments, from anxiety to PTSD, and has even been used in cancer treatment in some cases.
Why do we still have skeptics in the medical community?
As more medical professionals are thinking outside the box when they have exhausted all other treatment options for the consumer, we still have the skeptics about hemp because of its close relation to cannabis, which has long been controversial in its use as a substance with potential psychoactive effects.
Additionally, since the cannabis plant contains hundreds of compounds, many of which are still largely unknown, it can be challenging to determine if and how hemp might affect users. There is also limited research to support hemp's use as a medical product, making medical professionals hesitant to recommend it to every patient.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not currently regulate
products made from hemp. However, it controls the water, soil, and air
in producing hemp products.
The FDA also has jurisdiction over dietary supplements containing hemp and hemp-derived ingredients. The FDA has taken action against companies marketing products with false health claims related to hemp or hemp-derived products.
Hemp laws have yet to change, but they are currently being debated in
many states across the country. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp—defined
as cannabis with less than 0.3 percent THC content—from the list of
controlled substances, making it an ordinary agricultural commodity.
Some states have enacted laws to regulate the production and sale of hemp, while others are still figuring out how to make this change.
What can the hemp market tell us about 2023?
It is impossible to accurately predict hemp sales for 2023, as the
industry is very new and rapidly changing. Factors such as legalizing
hemp at the federal level and introducing new products and businesses
will significantly affect the market size.
Hemp sales will likely continue to increase over the next few years as more states legalize hemp and companies look to capitalize on new opportunities.
The best way for consumers to find the right hemp products is to
research the products, read product reviews, and speak to experienced
industry professionals to gain as much information as possible.
Consumers should also look for products certified by organizations like the US Hemp Authority or the Hemp Industries Association, as these organizations are devoted to upholding quality standards in the hemp industry. Additionally, customers should typically avoid products that make unsubstantiated health claims.
What are the top 5 websites consumers are pitching hemp products to?
1. Hemp Meds
2. Hemp Authority
3. Healthy Hemp Oil
4. Made By Hemp
5. Hemp Worx
Popular hemp consumer brands that people are purchasing include Dr. Bronner's, Charlotte's Web, Hemplucid, Sweet ReLeaf, Kiva Confections, Uncle Bud's Hemp, Sunsoil, Navitas Organics, Manitoba Harvest, Soul CBD, Arbor Hemp, Populum, HempFusion, Joy Organics, Lazarus Naturals, and Entourage Hemp.
Hemp facts
1. Hemp is an incredibly versatile and fast-growing plant.
2. Hemp plants don't require any pesticide and require little weeding.
3. Hemp can produce 250% more fiber than cotton and 600% more fiber than flax.
4. Hemp fiber is one of the most robust and durable natural fibers.
5. Hemp can be made into clothing, building materials, paper, fuel, plastic, and more.
6. Hemp is used by over 25,000 products globally, including food supplements and body care products.
7. Hemp oil is rich in essential fatty acids that can help protect against heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses.
8. Hemp oil is also known to reduce inflammation and help balance the body's hormones internally.
What countries have hemp legislation?
Hemp laws are in effect in many countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, China, Switzerland, India, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Spain, Italy, Poland, and South Africa.
Other countries where hemp is banned include Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Russia, and South Korea.
Overall, hemp is quickly emerging as a beneficial plant with incredible healing benefits. Its uses are not just limited to medical or industrial applications - it can also be consumed regularly by people looking for a nutritious, eco-friendly alternative.
Hemp is sure to be a popular choice among health-conscious individuals today and in the future.