What is Hemp? The Definitive Guide to Uses, Benefits, and Why It’s Everywhere
Functional. Sustainable. Feel-good. Hemp is having a moment—and for good reason. From nutrient-rich foods and skin-soothing oils to sparkling, stress-relieving drinks like Jeng, this powerhouse plant is redefining wellness and mindful indulgence. It's a clean, green ingredient that offers natural benefits for your body, your mood, and the planet.
In this guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about hemp—what it is, how it works, and why it’s becoming the hero of modern wellness routines, zero-proof cocktails, and more.
What is Hemp? A Brief History and Overview
Before we dive into what makes hemp a modern wellness and sustainability star, let’s look at where it came from—and how it became a staple in so many industries.
Origins of Hemp
Hemp has been around for millennia. Archaeological evidence from China’s Neolithic Yangshao culture shows hemp was used for textiles as early as 5000 BCE. Ancient Egyptians valued it for medicinal purposes, using hemp-based treatments for inflammation and eye discomfort. In Europe, it was a go-to for fuel, medicine, and even early building materials. Wherever you look, hemp has quietly been powering progress for centuries.
Hemp vs. Marijuana
Although hemp and marijuana both come from the Cannabis sativa plant, they’re fundamentally different. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC—the psychoactive compound in marijuana—which means it won’t get you high. But it still contains powerful cannabinoids known for their calming, stress-relieving effects.
Legal Status of Hemp
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives (as long as they contain under 0.3% THC) are federally legal in the U.S. That means hemp extracts, isomers, and acids are legally cultivated and sold in most states. While local laws vary, most hemp-based products—like Jeng’s hemp-infused cocktails—are entirely above board, safe, and hangover-free.
The Many Uses of Hemp
Hemp isn’t just a wellness trend—it’s a workhorse of a plant with a footprint in fashion, construction, personal care, and food. Here’s how it’s making waves:
Industrial Uses
Hemp fibers are stronger and more durable than cotton, making them a sustainable choice for textiles, ropes, and even bioplastics. They’re breathable, absorbent, naturally mold- and UV-resistant, and can be blended with other fibers like flax and silk for added softness.
In the building world, “hempcrete”—a hemp-based material—is changing the game. It’s lightweight, energy-efficient, and dramatically reduces a building’s carbon footprint while improving insulation and air quality.
Health and Wellness
Hemp seeds are nutritional powerhouses, packed with all nine essential amino acids, omega-3s, antioxidants, and key vitamins and minerals. They support heart health, boost brain function, and keep your gut in check.
Hemp oil is a skincare savior too. It helps soothe inflammation, manage oil production, and support a youthful glow. While topical use is generally safe, a patch test (or a quick chat with your derm) is always a smart move.
Hemp in Beverages and Food
Hemp-infused beverages are rising fast in popularity—and for good reason. With their calming, body-balancing effects, they’re the perfect alternative to alcohol. Thanks to hemp’s legal status, more people are choosing it as their go-to way to relax, unwind, and socialize.
Jeng’s zero-proof, hemp-infused cocktails offer a buzz without the booze—perfect for anyone seeking good vibes without the side effects.
And if you’re following a plant-based, keto, or paleo lifestyle? Hemp fits right in. It’s a staple in alt-dairy products like hemp milk, yogurt, and cheese, and can even be used in desserts like puddings and gelato. Crave-worthy and clean.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Benefits
Hemp isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the planet. It grows quickly with minimal water and pesticides, helps regenerate soil, and captures carbon from the atmosphere. The result? A highly sustainable crop that outshines traditional materials like cotton and synthetic fibers.
Because hemp requires little chemical processing, it offers an eco-friendly alternative to nylon and polyester. Its long-lasting fibers reduce waste and help pave the way toward a greener future.
The Health Benefits of Hemp
Hemp is more than a wellness trend—it’s a deeply functional, nutrient-rich powerhouse with wide-ranging benefits for body and mind. From your brain to your gut, your skin to your heart, here’s how hemp supports whole-body well-being.
Nutritional Profile
Hemp seeds deliver complete plant-based protein along with heart-healthy fats, fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. They support brain function, balance hormones, and keep your digestive system humming.
Hemp for Mental Well-Being
CBD and THC—non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in hemp—have been linked to reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved mood. They offer a calming effect without the fog or side effects of other mood-altering substances.
Hemp for Skin and Hair Health
Hemp oil is rich in linoleic acid and other omega fatty acids, which strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and help retain moisture. It’s also naturally anti-inflammatory and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for calming irritation, managing breakouts, and supporting sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Hemp for Heart and Digestive Health
Hemp’s heart-healthy fats—especially alpha-linolenic acid, a plant-based omega-3—help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and inflammation, two major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The balance of omega-6 to omega-3 in hemp also promotes healthy blood pressure and overall vascular function.
Its fiber content, especially in whole hemp seeds (hemp hearts), supports digestion, regulates blood sugar, and nourishes a diverse gut microbiome. That means fewer energy crashes, better nutrient absorption, and a digestive system that works with you, not against you.
Hemp’s Role in the Future of Wellness and Sustainability
Hemp is a game-changing plant with real potential to support both personal well-being and planetary health. As the world shifts toward more conscious choices, hemp sits at the intersection of clean living, modern self-care, and sustainable innovation.
The Shift Toward Plant-Based and Natural Alternatives
Consumers are leaning into cleaner, plant-based lifestyles, and hemp is leading the charge. It’s showing up in everything from high-protein snack bars to biodegradable plastics, offering a natural, low-impact alternative to synthetic materials and overprocessed foods.
With a nutritional profile that rivals superfoods and functional properties that span industries, hemp isn’t just filling gaps—it’s creating new pathways for people to feel good, inside and out, without compromising their values. Whether you’re sipping it, wearing it, or using it to fuel your post-workout recovery, hemp fits seamlessly into a wellness-first routine.
Hemp in the Beauty and Personal Care Industry
The clean beauty movement has welcomed hemp with open arms. Its antioxidant-rich oil is gentle yet effective—hydrating dry skin, reducing redness, and soothing irritation without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, hemp is also a favorite in formulations that calm sensitive or acne-prone skin. In haircare, it helps moisturize the scalp, prevent breakage, and promote strong, healthy growth. From glow-boosting facial oils to rich body creams and shine-enhancing shampoos, hemp is redefining beauty routines with ingredients that do more—and ask for less from the planet.
Hemp in Sustainable Agriculture
Hemp’s sustainability profile is hard to beat. It’s naturally resistant to pests, requires minimal water, and grows quickly—often in as little as 90–120 days. Even better, it regenerates soil health by pulling heavy metals out of the ground and replenishing nutrients for future crops.
Because it can be grown in rotation with other plants, hemp supports a more diverse and resilient agricultural system. Its deep roots help prevent erosion, and every part of the plant—from stalk to seed—can be used, reducing waste and maximizing value. In a world facing urgent environmental challenges, hemp isn’t just a smart crop—it’s a regenerative one.
The Rise of Hemp-Infused Beverages: A Modern Take on Relaxation
Now that we have answered “what is hemp,” and seen hemp’s benefits and products, let’s see the innovations happening in the industry. For instance, hemp-infused drinks are rewriting the script on how we relax, socialize, and celebrate.
Why Hemp-Infused Drinks Are Trending
As more people choose to skip alcohol—whether for wellness, sleep, or mental clarity—hemp-infused beverages are stepping in with a refreshing alternative. These drinks deliver a smooth, elevated mood without the drawbacks of booze: no hangxiety, no headaches, no regrets.
Microdosed with THC or CBD for a subtle lift, they’re ideal for unwinding after work, easing into social settings, or enhancing connection without sacrificing control. It’s a new kind of buzz—one that feels better and fits better into a mindful lifestyle.
Jeng’s Hemp-Infused Cocktails
At Jeng, we’ve reimagined the cocktail experience—zero-proof, expertly crafted, and infused with just the right amount of THC for a mellow mood boost. Our sparkling drinks are designed to elevate without the alcohol, offering a sophisticated sip that pairs perfectly with everything from dinner parties to solo nights in.
Craveable and complex, Jeng delivers all the flavor and fun of your favorite cocktail, minus the hangover. It’s your go-to for laid-back nights, long conversations, and mornings that start fresh.
How to Enjoy Hemp-Infused Drinks
Already leaning into intentional living? Swapping your standard drink for a hemp-infused spritz is a natural next step.
These sparkling cocktails can be enjoyed straight from the can or dressed up in a glass with fresh herbs and citrus. Looking to mix things up? Try pairing Jeng with bold foods—think spicy curries, salty cheeses, or rich chocolate desserts—for a flavor-forward experience that satisfies every sense. Prefer cozy vibes? Add a splash of Jeng to a warm cup of herbal tea or chilled lemonade for a relaxed yet elevated twist.
How to Incorporate Hemp Into Your Daily Life
Hemp isn’t just a special-occasion ingredient. It’s versatile, approachable, and easy to work into your everyday wellness flow.
Best Ways to Consume Hemp
- Seeds: Sprinkle them on salads, smoothie bowls, or yogurt for a boost of plant-based protein and healthy fats.
- Oil: Drizzle on roasted veggies or blend into dressings for a mild, nutty flavor and nutritional punch.
- Topicals: Use hemp-based balms, lotions, and oils to soothe skin and muscles post-workout or before bed.
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Drinks: Enjoy a Jeng cocktail to ease stress, set the mood, or elevate a gathering—no alcohol required.
DIY Hemp Skincare and Beauty Treatments
Hemp oil makes a fantastic base for simple, at-home beauty rituals. Mix it with sugar for a gentle lip scrub, massage it into your scalp for a pre-shampoo treatment, or blend it with essential oils for a dewy facial serum.
Just remember: always patch test, start small, and keep it simple—your skin will thank you.
Hemp: A Wellness Essential for the Modern Age
Hemp is more than just a feel-good ingredient—it’s a catalyst for a more conscious, balanced lifestyle. With benefits that touch nearly every part of your health and sustainability that respects the planet, hemp is here to stay.
With zero-proof, THC-infused cocktails like Jeng, you don’t have to choose between a good time and a good morning. Bring the buzz. Hold the booze.