Reason #1: Hemp is associated with marijuana.
The association with marijuana is perhaps the biggest reason why people hate on hemp. While hemp is technically in the same family as marijuana, it has a very different chemical makeup. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound that gets people high. In fact, consuming more hemp would only give you a headache since it does not contain enough of the THC compound to alter someone's state of mind in any way.
Reason #2: Hemp has long been associated with illegal drug culture.
The association of hemp with illegal drug culture began in the 1930s when marijuana was made illegal in the US. At the time, hemp was also included in this ban; despite having no psychoactive effects. The negative image of hemp just got carried over. Now with the Cannabis laws slowly passing it’s time to give hemp the recognition it deserves.
Reason #3: Misinformation campaigns by industries that oppose hemp.
The growth of hemp is seen as a threat by traditional industries that blame their problems on hemp. The textile industry is one such example, as it was threatened by the abundance of hemp fabric available. Hemp fabric is way softer and durable than traditional fabric. As a result, other industries waged misinformation campaigns to limit the legal growth of hemp, which has led to the current negative perception of hemp.
Reason #4: Lack of awareness and education about hemp.
Another reason why people hate on hemp is a lack of awareness about its benefits. There are numerous benefits associated with hemp, including its role as an alternative fuel source, its use as a building material, and its potential benefits in the healthcare industry. All of these benefits have gone unrecognized due to the lack of education around hemp.
Reason #5: Unfounded fears about hemp.
Some people fear that consuming hemp products could lead to addiction or other negative consequences. However, there is no evidence to support these fears. Hemp products are not addictive, and they have been shown to have numerous health benefits. The fear is from lack of adequate information and public perception.