As cannabis steadily gains popularity and widespread acceptance worldwide, more and more options for rolling paper become available in the market. And if you’re reading this, you probably came across using hemp leaves as rolling papers and got curious.

Aside from being a more natural and healthier alternative to traditional rolling paper, there are other benefits to using hemp leaves. In this article, we’ll talk all about hemp leaves, how they’re used as rolling papers, and much more.

What Is A Hemp Leaf?

Hemp leaves come from theCannabis sativa (marijuana) plant. They are large, fan-shaped, and fibrous and have a long history of being a valuable resource for past civilizations. Nowadays, hemp leaves can be manufactured into textiles and paper products, including rolling papers.

Despite the close association with the marijuana plant, hemp leaves contain significantly less tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that’s responsible for the “high” feeling. Instead, it contains more cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound in cannabis that provides certain therapeutic effects without the psychoactive effects of THC. Smoking the leaves won’t get you high, but it may provide a unique twist to your cannabis experience.

How To Use Hemp Leaf As Rolling Paper

Some cannabis stores sell hemp leaf rolling papers prepared or rolled up for an easy smoking experience. But if you want to start from scratch, follow these steps:

1. Select a fresh and pliable hemp leaf. Avoid those with spots or tears.
2. Dry the leaves. Fresh hemp leaves contain moisture that’s hard to burn, so drying them makes them easier to roll up and burn faster.
   
   The drying period depends on different conditions. Make sure it’s dry enough to ignite but not too dry that it starts crumbling or ripping easily. The best-dried leaves should be yellow or brown, as greenish leaves may still contain chlorophyll, which may taste bitter.
   
   You can dry hemp leaves in a number of ways: 
1. Lay out your leaves under the sun. 
2. Hang the leaves on a clothesline in a cool, dark, and dry place. 
3. Stick the leaves between the pages of a book you don’t read.

1. Once they’re dry, cut the leaves and form them into a rectangular shape, similar to the size of a traditional rolling paper.
2. Grind your cannabis.
3. Spread your blend evenly across the hemp leaf, leaving space at the edges.
4. Tightly roll the leaf around the mixture, sealing the roll with a bit of saliva, water, or blunt glue.
5. For best results, allow the roll to dry for a few minutes before use.

Where To Get Hemp Leaves

Sourcing hemp leaves depends on the legality of cannabis in your location. Here are places you can get hemp leaves:

1. Local dispensaries: Dispensaries often carry various cannabis products, including hemp leaves. An advantage of visiting a local dispensary is that you can inspect the leaves before purchasing to ensure their freshness and quality.
2. Online retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and specialized cannabis e-commerce sites may carry hemp leaves and other cannabis products. Do prior research and read customer reviews to ensure the shop’s authenticity and the products’ safety.
3. Direct from farmers: If you live somewhere with a thriving hemp farming industry, consider buying directly from farmers. This way, you can get a good deal on fresh leaves AND support your local farmers at the same time.
4. Grow your own: If local laws permit, growing your own hemp plants can be a rewarding experience. This approach not only provides a constant supply of fresh hemp leaves but also allows you to control the quality of your plants.

Pros & Cons Of Hemp Leaves As Rolling Paper Alternative

Pros

• Sustainability: Hemp leaves are eco-friendly since they’re biodegradable and renewable.
• Rich flavor: Hemp leaves can add a distinct, earthy flavor for an enhanced smoking experience.
• Slower burns: Hemp leaves burn slower compared to traditional rolling papers.
• No Additives: Unlike some rolling papers, hemp leaves contain no harmful additives or chemicals, providing a safe, all-natural smoking experience.

Cons

• Availability: Depending on your state, hemp leaves may be difficult to get.
• Difficult to roll: The thick, fibrous quality of the hemp leaves can make them more challenging to roll than traditional paper.
• Cost: Depending on your location, hemp leaves might be more expensive than traditional rolling paper, especially store-bought pre-rolled options.
• Slower drying time: Hemp leaves require a longer drying time after rolling before they can be used.

Is It Safe To Smoke Hemp Leaves?

In short, yes, hemp leaves are safe to smoke. When acquired from reputable sources, hemp leaves are natural and don’t contain any harmful or toxic chemicals. Unlike most tobacco-based rolling papers, they don’t contain nicotine, which can beharmful and addictive. Additionally, the low THC content in hemp leaves won’t give you the “high” associated with weed.

It's also worth noting that hemp leaves still contain cannabinoids, including CBD. While individual responses to CBD can vary, studies show that it’s non-intoxicating and may even provide potential health benefits, especially for those with insomnia or epilepsy.

However, the biggest downside to smoking hemp leaves is smoke inhalation. When you burn and smoke something (regardless of the source), you can inhale harmful combustion by-products, such as ash, carbon monoxide, etc. Knowing this, it’s important to practice moderation when smoking hemp leaves (or any other herbal substance, in general).

To Sum It Up

Using hemp leaves for rolling blunts can be a healthier and more eco-friendly way to enjoy a smoke. Depending on your state, hemp leaves can be more accessible and cost-effective. But while it provides a lot of benefits, it also has its drawbacks, like availability, ease of use, and longer prep times. If you plan to make the switch, only get it from reputable sources to ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does hemp leaf do?

Studies suggest that, when smoked, hemp leaves can provide potential health benefits because of their rich CBD content. These benefits may includeanti-inflammatory,pain-relieving, andanxiety-reducing properties. 

Do hemp leaves contain CBD?

Yes, hemp leaves are rich in CBD and low in THC. However, the concentration depends on the plant strain and growing conditions. 

Is hemp and marijuana the same?

Yes and no. Hemp and marijuana come from the Cannabis sativa plant. However, United States laws classify them differently by THC content. The law refers to cannabis with 0.3% or less THC by dry weight as hemp and those with more than 0.3% THC as marijuana.

Where can I get hemp leaf wraps?

You can purchase hemp leaf wraps from local dispensaries, online platforms, and smoke shops. If state laws allow, you can even grow your own. For your safety, only buy hemp leaf wraps from reputable sources.

Where can I get a hemp leaf blunt?

Like hemp leaf wraps, you can buy pre-rolled hemp leaf blunts from online shops, local dispensaries, or smoke shops where cannabis products are legally sold.