Why is Hemp Good for Nepal?

Hemp is an extraordinary plant. Native to Nepal, hemp grows in almost any conditions, needs no fertilisers or pesticides, and flourishes in Nepal's difficult terrain. It grows well at high altitude and on marginal land, actually replenishing the soil with vital nutrients. Its roots bind the soil together, helping to prevent soil loss and landslides on Nepal's fragile slopes.

Farmers have grown hemp on their land for generations, they have knowledge about harvesting and spinning the yarn, using the traditional 'tooth-and-spindle' method. The farmers can sell hemp yarn and cloth for a cash income.

Around the home and farm the plant is prized as a fibre because of its strength and durability. Its leaves and sap are used as a painkiller and sedative, while the roots make medicine for burns and other wounds. Roasted hemp seeds, a traditional hilly snack, contain a host of essential nutrients - a useful addition to an often poor diet.

Hemp is an ideal biomass fuel with a high cellulose content. Hemp can be compacted into burnable briquettes to fuel stoves and heat homes. Using renewable hemp fuel would save both firewood and the labour involved in collecting it.

Hemp in the mountains…

• helping to prevent landslides
• replenishing soil
• possible alternative fuel
• yarn and cloth sold for extra income
• extra source of nutrition