Hemp
Hemp is the common name for plants belonging to the genus Cannabis, although the term is often used to refer only to Cannabis strains cultivated for industrial (non-drug) use. Agricultural hemp has a rich, centuries-old history of use as traditional medicine by many cultures across the world.
Hemp is one of the most controversial crops around, mostly because it is a less potent relative of another spiky-leaved plant (you know which one!). Industrial hemp is often confused with marijuana (that's the one!), but it is a different breed of cannabis sativa and possesses very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, the chief intoxicant in marijuana. While the U.S. currently prevents cultivation of hemp, they permit trade in nonviable hemp seed, oil and fiber.
These days however, hemp is everywhere -- maybe even in your lunch! Shelled hemp seeds ("hemp nuts") and cold pressed hemp oil are used in many foods like salad dressings, nutrition bars, breads, cookies, granola, meatless burgers, chips and beverages. With its soft, sesame-seed like appearance and nutty flavor, you can sprinkle hemp seeds into cereals, salads, breads, casseroles and desserts. HempNut Butter is a mix of organic peanut butter and ground hempseed (free of any, um, active ingredient).
Why eat hemp? Shelled hempseed tastes like sunflower seeds but boasts an amazing 36 percent omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, plus 31 percent complete protein -- even higher than beef.
Hemp (the seed) may be grown also for food. The seeds are comparable to sunflower seeds, and can be used for baking, like sesame seeds. Products range from cereals to frozen waffles. A few companies produce value added hemp seed items that include the oils of the seed, whole hemp grain (which is sterilized as per international law), hulled hemp seed (the whole seed without the mineral rich outer shell), hemp flour, hemp cake (a by-product of pressing the seed for oil) and hemp protein powder. Hemp is also used in some organic cereals. Hemp seed can also be used to make a non-dairy "milk" somewhat similar to soy and nut milks, as well as non-dairy hemp "ice cream." In North America, hemp seed food products are sold in small volume, typically in health food stores or by mail order.
Hemp has other uses, as well. You can also get Hemp Enriched Shampoo, Hemp Enriched Conditioner. Hemp hair products add shine and body to all hair types. Safe and gentle for every day use, these hair products offer UV and environmental protection. Hemp is good for the skin, too, when used in Hemp Plus Hand and Body Lotion.
Also available from parent company HempNut: Hempeh Burgers, a "cheese alternative" and shelled hempseed to sprinkle on salads.
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