Hemp in action: real-world uses for an eco-friendly material

When it comes to sustainability, it’s hard to beat hemp – it’s fast growing, requires fewer pesticides and herbicides than other crops and regenerates soils by drawing on or fixing atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. No wonder proponents claim that growing hemp could help reverse climate change! 

Growing hemp

Industrial hemp has been grown for food and fibre for more than 50,000 years. Hemp fibre was traditionally used to make ropes and canvas, but various parts of the plant can be used for textiles, building materials, packaging, biofuels, oils, food and personal care products. Hemp products are now being utilised as natural and biodegradable substitutes for many synthetic materials. 

Agrifutures Australia reported there was around 2500 hectares of industrial hemp planted by more than 500 licence holders across Australia in the 2022-23 season, but the industry is growing rapidly.

Hemp milk 

Hemp milk is a non-dairy option that is suitable for vegans. It’s slightly thicker than cows’ milk and tastes creamy, nutty and a little sweet. Hemp milk is more expensive than cows’ milk, however there are easy instructions to make your own on the internet.
Where there’s milk there’s cheese – hemp Parmesan is a popular salad and pasta topper for those who like a little plant-based zing. 

Hemp personal care products

Soap

Hemp seed oil soap is gentle and soothing for sensitive skin. It is believed to lock in the skin’s natural moisture and balance the ph levels, keeping skin soft and supple and reducing the risk of acne. Hemp soap also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help alleviate rashes and provide topical relief for eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.

Skin cream

Hemp seed oil is a valuable ingredient in creams used to moisturise the face and body because it restores the skin’s natural barrier and hydrates without blocking pores. Its essential nutrients help regulate oil production, soften dry, irritated skin and soothe more intensive skin care conditions such as eczema. The omega fatty acids act as an anti-inflammatory, encouraging skin growth and new cell generation and combatting signs of aging.

Conditioner

Hemp seed oil is used in conditioner for all hair types, and being low allergenic, it doesn’t cause irritation to sensitive scalps. It has softening and strengthening properties that help nourish dry, damaged and frizzy hair and improve shine and elasticity.

NOTE: Hemp oil is low allergenic but if you have reactive skin, always try a patch test first.

For more information about hemp and its uses, get a copy of our Autumn 2025 issue (OG 156), available here.