Botanica
Species and Varieties
The hemp plant belongs to the Cannabinaceae family and is an annual plant. In nature, it is dioecious, meaning that it has both male and female plants in its population. However, it is not possible to determine the sex of the plants before the formation of flowers. The population of hemp is highly variable, with different characteristics among individuals. For example, there are plants that bear both male and female flowers on the same stem (monoecious), plants that contain high levels of THC (the psychoactive compound) and plants that are completely THC-free, and plants with leaf colors ranging from light green to dark green to purple.
Taking advantage of the variability of hemp, humans have created various varieties over time through selective breeding. These include fiber varieties, seed varieties (typically monoecious), and drug varieties. Some of the most well-known and still competitive Italian varieties are Carmagnola, CS (Carmagnola Selezionata), and Fibranova. Unfortunately, the germplasm of other famous varieties like Eletta Campana and Bolognese has been lost. In recent years, the ISCI (Istituto Sperimentale per la Colture Industriali) in Bologna has selected new varieties derived from traditional ones.
It is important to note that the distinction between cannabis indica and cannabis sativa, used to indicate high THC hemp (marijuana) and low THC hemp, respectively, is a botanical error. Hemp is a single species, and this misconception has also been incorporated into Italian anti-drug legislation.
The Hemp Plant
Stem: The hemp plant has an erect stem that can vary in height from 1 to 4/5 meters on average, depending on the variety, soil and climatic conditions, and seed density. Some specimens, called “lanse” in Piedmontese dialect, can even exceed 7 meters. The diameter of the stem can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters. The outer bark of the stem is green and consists of fibers held together by pectin. The inner part, called the “canapulo,” is very light white in color. The fiber accounts for 25-30% of the stem and is composed of approximately 82% cellulose and 6% lignin. The canapulo represents 70-75% of the stem and is composed of about 77% cellulose and 19% lignin, both of which are white in color. The fiber becomes coarser and more robust as the plant grows larger. Within the same plant, the fiber is coarser towards the root and finer towards the top.
Root System: The hemp plant has a robust taproot with slender lateral branches. In loose soils, the taproot can reach a depth of up to 150 cm.
Leaves: Hemp leaves develop on each stem. They are palmate, meaning they have multiple lobes radiating from a common point. The number of lobes can vary, but typically ranges from 5 to 9. The leaves are alternate and have serrated edges. The size and shape of the leaves can also vary depending on the variety.
Flowers: Hemp plants produce both male and female flowers. The female flowers are small and greenish in color, while the male flowers are larger and yellowish. The male flowers produce pollen, while the female flowers develop into seed-producing structures called “achenes.”
Seeds: Hemp seeds are small, oval-shaped, and vary in color, ranging from light brown to dark brown. They are rich in nutrition and have a pleasant nutty taste. Hemp seeds can be consumed as a whole or processed into oil, flour, protein powder, or other food products.
Uses of Hemp
Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years and has had numerous uses throughout history. Some of the main uses include:
1. Fiber: Hemp has strong and durable fibers that can be used to make textiles, ropes, paper, and construction materials. The fiber can be obtained from the stem through a process called retting, which separates the fibers from the rest of the plant.
2. Seeds: Hemp seeds are highly nutritious and have a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various minerals. Hemp seeds can be consumed as food, added to smoothies, used in baking, or pressed to extract oil.
3. Oil: Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds and is rich in essential fatty acids. It is used in cooking, as a salad dressing, and as a supplement. Hemp oil is also used in the production of cosmetics, soaps, and lotions.
4. CBD (Cannabidiol): Hemp plants contain a compound called cannabidiol (CBD), which has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits. CBD is extracted from the flowers and leaves of hemp and can be used in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topicals.
5. Environmental Benefits: Hemp is a versatile and sustainable crop. It requires minimal pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. It also has a short growth cycle and can be used as a rotation crop to improve soil health. Additionally, hemp plants absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Legality and Regulation
The legality of hemp varies from country to country. In some places, hemp cultivation and the production of hemp-derived products are fully legal, while in others, it is heavily regulated or prohibited. In recent years, there has been a global trend towards the legalization of hemp due to its various uses and potential economic benefits.
In conclusion, botanically speaking, hemp is a versatile plant with various uses and applications. It has been cultivated for centuries and has evolved into different varieties based on human selection. Hemp offers numerous benefits in terms of its fibers, seeds, oil, and potential health benefits. Its sustainable cultivation practices make it an environmentally friendly crop. As more research is conducted on hemp’s properties and applications, its potential continues to expand, making it an exciting and promising plant for the future.