Hi Cecil, One beneficial use of hemp that you overlooked is its use as a dietary supplement. It is a better (meaning more complete) source of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids than flax oil, and it does not have the risk of toxins associated with fish oil supplements. It’s also great for the skin, and I’m sure Dr. Bronner himself would confirm this. Although hemp will not replace trees or fish, I’d rather be massaged with hemp oil than sawdust any day. 
Welcome to the SDMB, Prudence.
A link to the online column is appreciated. Providing one can be as simple as pasting the URL into your post. Like so: http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a5_131.html