The plant anatomy of hemp is extremely diverse and allows this plant to be used in over 50,000 ways. A single hemp plant has a stalk, seeds, leaves, and roots; these can all be used to create clothing, textiles, foods, biofuels, compost, canvas, wood alternatives, building materials, and cosmetic/self care products. Hemp-Aid aims to use these byproducts to solve the health and economic crisis in Afghanistan. We can use our understanding of hemp’s products and benefits to drive this change forward.
Hemp seeds are packed with healthy oils, fiber, and protein. Seed oil is often used in skin and cosmetic products, or as dietary supplements. After a seed is pressed for its oil, the remaining hull and fiber can be ground into a protein-rich flour, which we use to make naan. This naan supplies Afghans with protein, fiber, fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that traditional wheat-based naan lacks. Naan is a staple in the Afghan diet, so Hemp Aid’s healthy spin on this bread would consistently deliver nutrients to people.
Hemp cultivation in Afghanistan could positively affect this nation’s agriculture and market dynamic. Hemp Aid teaches hemp cultivation to farmers and not only promotes long-term agricultural independence but also educates on the surplus of products made from this plant. This product diversity can equip farmers with greater market opportunities and aid in ending the poverty cycle faced by many Afghan farmers.
Including women in hemp cultivation training will deflate gender-based barriers which further improves representation and offers more opportunities to women. Women’s education and agricultural empowerment would increase farm revenues; this extra money could send children to school and improve the overall well-being of families.
