Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is an incredibly versatile crop, with nearly every part of the plant having valuable commercial applications. This document outlines the main components of the industrial hemp plant and their associated uses across various industries.

Stalk (Fiber and Hurds)

The hemp stalk is the primary source of two distinct materials: the outer bast fiber and the inner woody core, known as hurds or shives.

Component	Description	Primary Uses
Bast Fiber	The strong, long fibers located in the outer bark of the stem.	Textiles (clothing, canvas), Rope, Composite materials (e.g., car parts), Specialty paper, Bioplastics
Hurds/Shives	The short, woody, porous inner core of the stalk.	Building materials (hempcrete, insulation), Animal bedding, Mulch, Industrial absorbents

Seeds

Hemp seeds (sometimes called hemp nuts) are highly nutritious and do not contain psychoactive cannabinoids. They are a valuable food source and source of oil.

Seed Component	Description	Primary Uses
Whole Seeds	The entire small, round seed.	Food (raw, roasted), Snacks, Baking, Protein powder, Seed butter
Hemp Seed Oil	Oil pressed from the seeds.	Culinary oil (salad dressing), Cosmetics (lotions, balms), Industrial lubricants, Biofuel

Flowers and Leaves

The flowers and leaves contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids, including Cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes. These parts are primarily utilized in the wellness and pharmaceutical sectors.

Component	Key Compounds	Primary Uses
Flowers/Buds	Cannabinoids (e.g., CBD, CBG) and Terpenes	Extracts and Isolates, Dietary supplements, Tinctures, Edibles, Pharmaceutical applications
Leaves	Low concentrations of cannabinoids, high in fiber and nutrients.	Teas, Juices, Feedstock

For those interested in the nutritional data of hemp seeds, please refer to the latest analysis: File

Roots

While less commercialized than the other parts, hemp roots play an important role in soil health and have emerging applications.

• Phytoremediation: Hemp roots are excellent for cleaning soil by absorbing heavy metals and toxins.
• Soil Health: They improve soil structure and can prevent erosion.
• Traditional Medicine: Historically used in poultices and extracts.