Hemp has been unfairly stigmatized due to its association with its cousin, cannabis. However, hemp itself is a non-psychoactive strain of the cannabis plant. It stands out as one of the fastest-growing plants globally, capable of sequestering approximately 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the soil per hectare. Additionally, its robust growth outcompetes weeds to such an extent that minimal herbicide is required for successful cultivation.

Back in 8,000 B.C.E Mesopotamians were weaving hemp cord into pottery. The plant is one of the first cultivated crops. In China, hemp has been continuously cultivated for over 6,000 years, with farmers first converting the crop into textiles and then later in 150 B.C. into some of the first paper. 

Hemp in England and US

In 1535, King Henry VIII of England mandated that farmers cultivate a minimum of ¼ acre of their land with hemp. This directive arose due to the fact that, during that era, 80% of clothing was crafted from hemp fibers.

The early days of the United States were marked by an intensive hemp economy. Hemp farms in Missouri and Kentucky continued to pump out fibres for sails and textiles throughout the 19th century and into the early 20th century. The U.S. government spurred the growth of hemp to create military goods and uniforms during WW2.

Hemp Clothing History

When implemented in a crop rotation, hemp can be a boon to farmers. But hemp’s benefits don’t end on the farm. Its seeds are nutrient-dense and can be eaten raw or made into milk or oils. Its stalks can be used to make a fibre that’s stronger, more absorbent, more durable, and better insulating than cotton.

A more ethical world is within reach, as hemp, if cultivated responsibly, has the potential to revolutionize our planet.