Cannabis Business Times | Jorge Olson | August 04, 2023
Jorge Olson, chief marketing officer at Hempacco, showcases hemp’s myriad uses, what consumers can expect, and what businesses should note.
In recent times, there has been a notable uptick in the popularity of hemp goods. Fresh and inventive items have emerged over the past decade, providing users with a plethora of uses for hemp, ranging from alleviating stress to soothing discomfort with the aid of a cannabis sativa-infused ointment.
Despite hemp’s extensive historical use, contemporary pioneers are only just beginning to comprehend its multifaceted potential. Hemp stands out as a sustainable, eco-friendly resource, distinct from marijuana due to its low THC content and elevated CBD levels, which offer various advantages.
Outlined below are five applications of hemp, highlighting how it’s utilized, enjoyed, and leveraged, along with insights for both consumers seeking its benefits and business leaders navigating this flourishing market.
- Utilization of Healing Hemp: The utilization of hemp and CBD products for healing has historical roots tracing back to ancient China, where hemp was employed for pharmacological purposes as early as 2800 B.C. In contemporary times, hemp CBD oils and infused products find applications in alleviating anxiety, managing pain, and combating insomnia, among other uses. Notably, CBD features prominently in Epidiolex, an FDA-approved hemp-derived product tailored for individuals with epilepsy. The research underscores the extensive therapeutic potential of CBD and hemp products. Their usage spans from mitigating diabetic complications like neuropathy to addressing symptoms of opioid withdrawal.
- Nourishing Food Alternatives: In addition to hemp’s healing properties, incorporating hemp or its by-products into food can significantly enhance overall health and wellness. Hemp seeds, for instance, serve as a popular ingredient in numerous recipes and boast a rich reservoir of essential fatty acids such as heart-healthy omega-3, as well as calcium, fiber, and iron. Hemp, a dietary mainstay in many cultures outside the West for centuries, is increasingly gaining traction in Western cuisine. Hemp seeds offer versatility, doubling as a milk substitute for vegan diets or lactose-intolerant individuals, as well as featuring in salad dressings or as a replacement for vegetable or olive oil.
- Beauty Enhancement: Hemp’s abundance in fatty acids renders it an excellent candidate for beauty formulations. The presence of these fatty acids alongside additional vitamins in hemp-based beauty products reduces the likelihood of skin irritation. Hemp oil boasts nourishing and moisturizing properties, making it particularly beneficial for dry skin, peeling cuticles, and parched hair follicles. Moreover, hemp exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and has proven effective in after-sun care and anti-acne regimens. Additionally, hemp-derived vitamins contribute to anti-aging effects by hydrating and plumping aging skin, promoting a more radiant complexion.
- Safer Smoking Alternatives: Cigarette smoking rates have significantly declined in the past decade, with individuals increasingly averse to the high cancer risks associated with traditional cigarettes. Hemp cigarettes offer a safer alternative devoid of nicotine and other harmful additives, providing smokers with the sensory experience and oral fixation sans the detrimental effects. Furthermore, unlike THC found in marijuana, CBD lacks hallucinogenic properties. While no form of smoking is entirely risk-free, transitioning to hemp cigarettes presents a step towards harm reduction compared to traditional smoking habits.
- 5. Versatile Applications in Materials: Similar to its medicinal usage, hemp’s utilization in textiles, rope-making, and construction materials has ancient origins. With growing interest in sustainable construction practices, a resurgence in hemp-based building materials holds promise for developers and construction innovators seeking eco-friendly alternatives.
The Pierre Chevet Sports Hall in Paris recently made history as the first building constructed entirely from hemp blocks. Hemp exhibits resistance to fire and mold, in addition to being carbon-neutral.
Beyond construction, hemp finds application in clothing production. Amid concerns regarding the environmental impact of fast fashion, hemp’s sustainability in clothing manufacturing garners attention. Hemp cultivation promotes soil fertility, requires minimal chemical intervention, and yields durable fibers. While hemp fabric may be costlier than cotton, its sustainability appeals to consumers seeking environmentally friendly and long-lasting clothing alternatives.
In recent years, hemp has witnessed numerous innovations, with its cultivation experiencing an upward trend. Individuals seeking relief from anxiety, improved sleep quality, or pain management may find solace in hemp products. Similarly, those committed to combating climate change can explore hemp for building and clothing needs. As innovators continue to explore novel applications of hemp, society stands poised to reap multifaceted benefits.
Jorge Olson is the co-founder and CMO of two publicly traded companies, Hempacco, ticker symbol HPCO, and Green Globe International, ticker GGII. Olson was born in Tijuana, Mexico, without running water or electricity, hurdling buckets of water across a block several times per day. Now, Olson is the author of business and inspirational books, as well as an authority on consumer packaged goods, beverages, and wholesale distribution. His partners are super-entrepreneur Sandro Piancone, Cheech and Chong, James Linsey, Rick Ross and Snoop Dogg.
Published by Cannabis Business Times
