ington was an avid supporter of the plant, and our country’s Declaration of Independence was drafted on hemp paper. Sadly, it is currently illegal for American farmers to grow this historically patriotic crop. It is however legal to import and use hemp products, but why support the Canadian and European economies when we could boost our own? Not only could hemp farming stimulate North Carolina’s economy by replacing jobs lost by industries such as tobacco and textiles, it would also replenish our soil. America’s current cash crops are dwarfed by hemps
benefits. More nutritionally valuable than the soybean, hemp supplies all essential amino acids in an easily digestible form, making it a complete protein source. In fact, hemp oil is one of the richest known sources of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (“good” fat) and its nutritionally ideal omega profile (3:1 ratio) is a safer and kinder alternative to fish. Hemp is also more environmentally friendly than cotton, which is responsible for almost half the agricultural chemicals used on U.S. crops. Renewable, fast-growing hemp can successfully thrive without herbicides, fungicides or pesticides. A remarkably versatile plant, hemp can be used as textiles, paper, construction materi- als, plastics, bio-fuel, foods and body care products. USA Today touts that hemp foods will be a huge trend in
2007. A likely prediction considering hemp is a highly nutritious antioxidant containing Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, D, and E as well as seven important minerals. For these same reasons hemp oil is also ideal for body care. Specifically, hemp has been shown to assist with eczema, psoriasis, acne and moisture balance with its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, healing,
rejuvenating and soothing properties. In North Carolina a bill was introduced to study the benefi-
cial uses of industrial hemp (S.L. 2006-248). Unfortunately, this action died before anyone was even assigned to the committee. Currently 28 states have introduced pro-hemp legislation but only 15 have passed it; with only 8 of those states removing barriers for hemp production. Let’s make sure North Carolina doesn’t miss this important opportunity! If you are inclined, you are encouraged to contact your local legislators (www.
NCLeg.net) and voice your support of industrial hemp! Since the Federal roadblock was removed by the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2005, it gave the states authority over hemp manufacturing. We have a real opportunity here to make a positive, sustainable change for our great state by literally going back to our roots and supporting industrial hemp. The truth is out, now we have the opportunity to help it
grow! Visit:
www.thehia.org;
www.hempstores.com; www.
votehemp.org
pictured left: hemp rope and hemp fabric
Article submitted by Julia Link, creator of mermaid says’ syn- thetic-free handcrafted bath & body care:
www.mermaidsays. com;
julia@mermaidsays.com; 336.854.8750. A member of the Hemp Industries Association, mermaid says is proud to feature certified organic hemp seed oil in most of their products. See ad on page 22.
MARCH 2007
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