Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) is one of the plants from the Cannabis family. Considered one of the oldest crops ever cultivated, hemp has a deep-rooted history and is mentioned multiple times in the Indian Vedas.
Technically, every plant from the cannabis family that contains less than 0.3% THC is considered hemp.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis (Cannabaceae) is a family of plants that contains about 170 species. The three main species in the cannabis family are Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis.
Among these three, Cannabis Indica and Ruderalis contain a higher percentage of THC, while plants that come under Cannabis Sativa have less than 0.3% THC and are commonly known as hemp.
What is THC?
THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, is a psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is mainly present in the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the plant and is primarily responsible for the "high" effects that come after smoking or ingesting it. It affects the endocannabinoid system, binding with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are responsible for several bodily functions such as mood, pain perception, and appetite.
According to research, more than 0.3% THC in a plant can lead to psychoactive or intoxicating effects.
Is Hemp the Same as Weed?
There are a lot of queries like, "Is hemp the same as weed?" or "Is hemp the same as marijuana?" These doubts arise because both come from the same cannabis family and share several properties. They even look very similar to the naked eye. However, scientifically, they are not the same.
In general terms, any plant from the cannabis family that has more than 0.3% THC is considered weed or marijuana. The rest, which has less than 0.3% THC, is known as hemp. There are also several visual differences — for example, the hemp plant is taller and thinner than a marijuana plant.
Hemp History in India
Here’s a fascinating fact: the world’s first paper was made from hemp. Even before that, hemp was already known for its incredible versatility and deep historical significance. It is one of the five sacred plants mentioned in the Indian Vedas. In Ayurvedic texts, hemp is referred to as bhang, and in the Atharva Veda, it is named Vijaya. In Hindu tradition, bhang is mentioned as the food of the supreme god, Shiva.
Although hemp has been used in India for more than 50,000 years, it was banned in 1985 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Is Hemp Legal in India?
One of the most frequently asked questions is: "Is hemp legal in India?"
Under the NARCOTIC DRUGS AND PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES ACT (NDPS) 1985, cannabis was broadly banned. The act declared that the use and cultivation of charas, ganja, and any form of cannabis plant would be illegal and considered a criminal offence.
However, in 2015, there was some relief provided for the cultivation of industrial hemp, and Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to get a license to grow it.
What is Industrial Hemp? Is It the Same as Hemp?
In the NDPS Act, cannabis is commonly referred to as hemp. All cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% THC are known as industrial hemp.
So yes, hemp is legal in India, but under the name industrial hemp. Currently, states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh have also received licenses to grow industrial hemp.
Still, the use of hemp flowers, stalks, and leaves for consumption remains illegal in India.
Hemp Uses and Benefits
Hemp is regarded as one of the most versatile plants on planet Earth. Its applications are vast and cover various industries:
Industrial Uses of Hemp:
- Fibre made from hemp is used in textiles, clothing, ropes, and even shoes.
- Paper made from hemp is becoming increasingly popular since hemp grows in just 100 days, making it a sustainable alternative to cutting down trees.
- Hemp also absorbs a significantly higher amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere compared to trees, making it beneficial for the environment.
Skincare and Haircare:
Hemp is a powerful natural ingredient used in many skin and hair care products. It is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids and has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
There’s ongoing research on whether hemp can help control hair fall or even promote hair regrowth. Almost every user has reported significant improvement in hair strength and reduction in hair loss after using hemp topically.
You can check out our Ultimate Hemp Combo for Hair, which includes a hemp shampoo and a hemp hair serum for men.
Conclusion
Hemp is often seen as a controversial plant, mainly because it resembles marijuana. However, it is not the same as weed. With less than 0.3% THC, it has no psychoactive effects and is now gaining popularity for its industrial, skincare, and environmental benefits.
As awareness spreads, more people are starting to learn about hemp and its many uses. Ongoing research continues to prove that this ancient plant might just be one of nature’s most powerful gifts, or as some like to call it, a magical plant.