hennep

Hennep, in Dutch usage, refers to the Cannabis sativa plant varieties cultivated for industrial use, commonly known as hemp in English. These varieties are bred to have very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, with THC typically well below regulatory thresholds (often under 0.3% by dry weight). The plant is an annual herb characterized by tall, woody stems and small inflorescences.

Industrial hemp is valued for its fiber, seeds, and oil. The fiber is long and strong, suitable for textiles, rope, paper, and building materials such as hempcrete. The seeds are rich in protein and essential fatty acids and can be eaten or pressed for oil used in cooking, cosmetics, and industrial products. In recent years, non-psychoactive hemp varieties have also been cultivated to produce cannabinoid extracts, notably cannabidiol (CBD), for wellness and pharmaceutical applications, though legal status and product definitions vary by country.

Cultivation and regulation: Hemp is generally grown for fiber or seed rather than flowering tops. It tolerates a range of soils but prefers well-drained conditions and moderate climates. It often requires fewer inputs than some competitors and has a relatively short growing cycle. Legal frameworks differ widely; many jurisdictions establish licensing requirements and enforce THC limits to distinguish hemp from drug-type cannabis.

History and present use: Hemp has a millennia-long history in Europe, Asia, and the Americas for textiles, paper, and nutrition. Modern production emphasizes sustainable agriculture and a growing market for natural fibers, plant-based foods, and non-intoxicating cannabinoid products.