‘Hempsters’ work to legalize industrial crop
LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Indiana Hemp Industries Association joined forces with local business Tippy Hemp to host a screening of the industrial hemp documentary, Bringing It Home.
It was one of several events held throughout the sixth annual Hemp History Week in the U.S. to spread the word about hemp.
Similar to flax, hemp provides food and fiber without having the psychoactive ingredient THC found in marijuana. While it is legal to import hemp in the U.S., it is not yet legal for farmers to grow it.
Bryan Pracht, owner of Hemp Natural Soap based in McCordsville, said that having locally grown hemp would help his business.
“I’d like to make more than just soap, but with the product not as available, I can’t do as much as I’d like to do,” he said.
Pracht attended the documentary screening to hand out samples of his homemade soap and sell full-sized bars, as well. He also sells his products at farmers markets and online.
Guests at the event were able to sample foods made from hemp seeds, such as cookies and coffee, as well.
“I think being able to grow hemp would be the No. 1 boost to our economy,” said Brandon Pitcher, founder of newly formed Indiana company Hemp Circle Industries. “From the agriculture industry to the processing industries — it could easily be grown and manufactured here.”
According to the Indiana hemp association, health benefits of hemp seeds include:
- Improves cardiovascular and organ function, immunity levels, dry skin and hair
- Reduces PMS symptoms, arthritis symptoms, muscle recovery time after exercise
- Increase energy levels, metabolic rate
- Decreases LDL cholesterol level, blood pressure
- Hemp seeds are a source of essential fatty acids.
- Three tablespoons of hemp contain: 11 grams protein, 7.5 grams omega-6 fatty acids, 3 grams omega-3 fatty acids, No gluten
- Hemp has many other uses and can be used to make building materials, rope, fabric, lotions and other products.
