Hemp was legalized for cultivation in the United States in the 2018 Farm Bill. Since then, there has been a proliferation of hemp products on the market. The plant is a form of cannabis, but it lacks the THC of the marijuana plant. A major advantage of growing hemp is its environmentally friendly properties as a crop. It has the added benefit of having an incredibly diverse array of potential uses. Here are six.

1. CBD Oil

CBD oil is probably the most well-known use for hemp. CBD oil made from hemp is legalized in the United States. The oil is touted as having numerous health benefits, including calming anxieties and relieving pain due to inflammation. For the best results, however, it is important to use quality hemp products.

2. Food and Milk

The local supermarket or health food store is sure to have hemp seeds or hemp hearts on the shelves, as well as hemp milk. The hemp seed contains all nine essential fatty acids, making it a plant-based complete protein. The seeds also contain significant amounts of zinc, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium and calcium. With such high nutritional value, hemp is an excellent addition to any diet.

3. Fiber for Clothing

Cotton is one of the most detrimental crops for the environment, as it requires a great deal of water and uses more chemicals (especially pesticides) than any other crop. Hemp is an eco-friendly alternative. The fiber for the plant can easily replace cotton in clothing and other textiles.

4. Pet Goods

Pets, like humans, can benefit from hemp products. Hemp-based CBD oil treats and tinctures are common products on the market and provide some of the same benefits for furry family members as it does for their humans. Other pet supplies, such as bedding and toys, can also be made from the plant.

5. Soil Cleansing

One of the most surprising uses for this diverse plant is for cleansing soil of toxins. As a bio-accumulator, it can remove egregious substances such as lead, nickel and cadmium. It can also survive in harsh climates. This high-value property could be put to good use in cleaning up contaminated lands.

6. Construction Material

While relatively new to the scene, hemp is greening up the construction industry. Its primary use is for insulation. It is breathable, mold resistant, moisture repellant, lightweight and inexpensive, all of which are great properties for insulating materials.

Hemp’s versatility, along with its eco-friendly properties, make it a valuable resource. The legalization of hemp has already led to an abundance of products on the market, but more will surely be seen in the future.