Hemp is a versatile plant belonging to the Cannabis sativa species. It is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world, valued for its fibres, seeds, and many other components. Hemp contains very low levels of THC (0.3% or less) and higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound.
Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years for its industrial, nutritional, and medicinal purposes. From its ancient origins in China and India to its modern-day resurgence, hemp has played a significant role in various cultures and industries.
It’s in understanding the history of hemp that we can learn to appreciate everything it can offer, as well as know how we can use it to aid our fitness and wellness journey. Let’s take a trip through time and explore the timeline of hemp’s uses and cultivation, shedding light on its historical significance and present-day applications.
Ancient Origins
Hemp’s story begins in ancient civilizations in Central Asia, where it was first cultivated more than 11,000 years ago. These ancient civilizations discovered the multiple uses of hemp, primarily employing it for textile production, creating durable and comfortable fabrics. Hemp’s strong fibres made it an ideal material for papermaking. The cultivation of hemp spread to India and the Middle East around 2,000 BCE, further establishing its importance in these regions.
Hemp in Europe
The introduction of hemp to Europe can be traced back to the Scythians, who brought the plant around 1,200 BCE. The Greeks and Romans recognized the utility of hemp and used it extensively for different purposes. In ancient Greece and Rome, hemp was used to make clothing, ropes, and sails due to its durability and resistance to rot. During the Middle Ages (500-1500 CE), hemp cultivation spread across Europe, becoming a vital crop for fibre production.
Colonial America
Hemp made its way to the shores of colonial America in 1616 when English settlers brought it to Jamestown, Virginia. The English wished to grow their own hemp in America to avoid the commercial debts associated with the plant. They also greatly recognized its versatility, so early American colonists quickly embraced hemp cultivation, establishing it as a major crop.
Hemp played a crucial role in the fledgling American economy, with its fibres used to make ropes, textiles, and ship sails. Hemp was so important that it became illegal not to grow hemp in Connecticut, Virginia, and Massachusetts in the 1630s.
As the American colonies grew, the demand for hemp fluctuated. The American Revolution disrupted hemp production as the colonies faced political and economic challenges. After the war, the emergence of cotton as a major cash crop in the southern states and the availability of cheap imported fibres impacted the demand for hemp textiles.
Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point in the use of hemp. With advancements in machinery, hemp fibres were processed more efficiently, leading to increased textile production. During the 18th and 19th centuries, hemp became a staple material for manufacturing clothing, canvas, and other textiles. During this time, hemp fibres also found their way into the paper industry, offering an alternative to traditional wood-based pulp.
Hemp seeds were used for producing oil, which served as a lubricant for machinery during the early years of the Industrial Revolution. Hemp oil was also used to make soaps, paints, varnishes, and fuel. The plant’s seeds were rich in nutrients and were consumed as food by both humans and animals.
The production and processing of hemp fibre and seeds required manual labour, so its cultivation created job opportunities for many people during this period. The demand for hemp increased significantly with the expansion of international trade and the growing shipping industry, which relied heavily on hemp-based products for their durability and versatility.
In the late 19th century, concerns over the psychoactive properties of certain Cannabis strains led to increasing regulation and legal restrictions on cannabis cultivation. This, combined with the competition from other fibres like jute and sisal, led to a gradual decline in hemp production during the later stages of the Industrial Revolution.
Medicinal Uses and Prohibition
Irish physician William O’Shaughnessy was responsible for introducing cannabis to Western medicine. After observing how cannabis was used in India and experiencing the effects first-hand, he published a study called “On the Preparations of the Indian Hemp, or Gunjah” in 1839. Soon after, hemp extracts were widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments. Its therapeutic properties were recognized, leading to the formulation of hemp-based remedies.
However, the early 20th century brought a wave of prohibition, due to concerns raised by competing industries. The prohibition of hemp in the 20th century was primarily driven by the broader campaign against cannabis, fuelled by a combination of social, political, and economic factors.
Hemp cultivation faced restrictions and was eventually prohibited in many countries, largely due to its association with its psychoactive cousin, marijuana. After the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, many countries followed the US’s lead and made cannabis illegal.
Modern Revival
Despite the setbacks caused by prohibition, hemp experienced a revival in the modern era. During World War II, hemp production was temporarily reinstated to meet military requirements for ropes and textiles. Hemp ropes were used extensively in the Navy for rigging ships, anchoring, and towing operations.
Hemp was also grown as part of the broader agricultural push for self-sufficiency. For example, the United States government actively encouraged farmers to grow hemp as part of the “Hemp for Victory” campaign. The goal was to reduce dependence on imported fibres and ensure a steady supply of materials for the military.
However, strict regulations continued to hinder its widespread cultivation. After the war, the demand for hemp declined rapidly as alternative synthetic fibres, such as nylon and polyester, gained popularity. This led to a decline in hemp cultivation and limited its applications for several decades.
Hemp Today
The 21st century has witnessed a growing recognition of hemp’s economic and environmental advantages. The rising interest in sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives has greatly contributed to the revival of hemp. Hemp is considered a highly sustainable crop, as it requires minimal pesticides, herbicides, and water when compared to other crops, like cotton. Hemp plants also absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide and help improve soil health.
The versatility of hemp is another reason for its revival. Hemp fibres are being used once again in the textile industry, providing an alternative to synthetic fibres and cotton. The fibres are rich in cellulose and can be used to construct materials and biofuels, reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. The plant’s non-psychoactive compound, cannabidiol (CBD), has gained immense popularity as products like CBD edible sweets, cream topicals, and oil tinctures hit the market.
Legislative changes and the relaxation of hemp-related regulations have played a crucial role in its modern revival. In the United States, the passage of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the Farm Bill, removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act, effectively legalising its cultivation and paving the way for a thriving hemp industry. In the UK, its revival can be traced back to the passing of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations in 2001, which allowed for the cultivation of low-THC hemp varieties with a THC content of less than 0.2%.
Conclusion
The history of hemp is a testament to its versatility and resilience. From ancient civilizations to the modern era, hemp has evolved, adapting to changing needs and challenges. As society embraces sustainability and explores the benefits of natural resources, hemp emerges as a valuable plant with limitless potential.
The modern revival of hemp has spurred innovation and investment in the industry. Research institutions and private companies are exploring the plant’s genetic diversity, developing new hemp varieties, and conducting studies to unlock its full potential. This has led to advancements in breeding techniques, extraction methods, and product development.
With its varied applications and the legalisation of its cultivation in many regions, hemp continues to shape industries and pave the way for a greener future.
