Hemp

The possibilities of using hemp paper for my laser cut lampshades led me to finding this website www.thehempshop.co.uk/why-hemp.php with a variety of hemp products for sale .I have ordered some to try out . I have also been perusing the book Hemp Horizons by John W. Roulac which discusse the origins , use and current attitudes to hemp production.

Why Hemp ?

Hemp is a member of one of the most advanced plant families on earth, capable of using the sun's energy more efficiently than virtually any other. Originating from Asia, it has been cultivated by mankind for more than 6000 years and until the late 16th century was our planet's largest agricultural crop and most important industry. Almost every part of the plant was used to provide the overall majority of our fibre, fabric, lighting oil, paper and medicinal needs, as well as being a primary source of essential food oil and protein for humans and animals. Hemp flourishes without the the use of pesticides (having few natural enemies) and grows so fast that it literally leaves other plants in the shade. This means herbicides are not required either, making hemp ideal for organic farming. Cotton, on the other hand, uses vast amounts of chemicals both in its growing and processing. Hemp produces up to three or four times more pulp per acre than timber, and produces higher quality paper. There are no environmentally damaging bleaching processes in hemp paper production and it recycles many more times than wood pulp. At present we are over-reliant on dwindling fossil fuel reserves and are still busy chopping down forests at an alarming rate. Hemp is a sustainable alternative and also one of he most effective convertors of CO2 to oxygen - cleaning the air, improving the soil and helping to fight global warming. Apart from living in a healthier environment, using hemp is beneficial to the individual in many ways. Hemp fibres are porous so they allow your skin to breathe, whilst also being softer, stronger and more durable than cotton. Hemp seed is one of the most complete sources of vegetable nutrition known to man; it is 33% high quality protein and a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) including Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 which are present in the ideal ratio for absorbing into the body. Hemp seed oil also has amazing skin care properties, moisturising and replenishing it with those important EFAs. Clinical trials have shown that Omega-3 and Omega-6 in hemp oil helps dry skin defects and are beneficial for the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.