The application of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) for a green economy: a review

Abstract

The concern for the issues related to the growing needs of human civilization like resource depletion, pollution, climatechanges, and health risk has led to a search for eco-friendly alternatives to environmental problems. Recently, hemp started gainingpopularity for its medicinal, nontoxic, greenhouse negative, and biodegradable properties. Originating from the steppes of CentralAsia, Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) is one of the oldest domesticated plants known to humans. Since 5000–4000 BC, different parts of theplant were used for spinning, weaving, papermaking, the seed for human feed, animal feeds, medicinal, and health purposes. Reportsalso suggest the use of hemp as an organic additive in the historic earthen plasters of Ellora Caves, India (6th Century). Due to itspsychoactive and recreational properties, this environmentally friendly plant lost its importance eventually in the 19th century and itscultivation was made illegal. People, in general, changed their outlook towards the plant and considered it a sign of moral indignation.Recently, food, pharmaceutical, textile, paper, building, energy, and other industries found hemp to be a promising solution forsynthetic-based economies. Since then, the cultivation of hemp has been reintroduced, legalized in some countries, and now in recenttimes, there has been a good reimplementation of the plant in creating a green economy. This review will highlight the application ofhemp and display its outstanding qualities in minimizing environmental and health issues. Based on the knowledge gained from variousscientific resources; the commercial, industrial, and agricultural potential of the plant will be unveiled to give more push towards thehemp cultivation.