Bamboo has proven to be a great material for eco-friendly building projects and designs. This is basically because of how sustainable and versatile a material it is. Bamboo is harvested in 7 years which is 43 years sooner than wood can be harvested. Bamboo can also be grown in very diverse climates which can range from very cold to very hot and the uses for this large grass are just as diverse as where it grows. Here are seven unique uses for this durable plant.

Food is an interesting use of the bamboo plant. The new shoots of bamboo are edible when they are just coming out of the ground and are used in many dishes and broths. If you want to try this interesting snack, make sure you know which kind of bamboo you are ingesting because Giant Bamboo contains cyanide and will probably kill you. Some other shoots contain toxins as well that need to be leached or boiled before eaten.

Medicine is another way that bamboo is used. It is often used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for infections and is a low calorie source of potassium. The concretion found in bamboo stems is though to help with some respiratory diseases.

Clothing made from bamboo can be very fashionable. Not only are the fibers often weaved into yarns for clothing, bamboo is also a source of durable knitting needles. Cloth made from bamboo is said to have antibacterial properties and a wonderfully soft feel.

Bamboo is very light but very strong which makes it perfect for some sports equipment. Some sports manufacturers have started using bamboo for snow boards, skate boards, surf boards, and even bicycles. There is also some use of bamboo in manufacturing fishing rods, especially for fly fishing, which requires a lighter rod.

Bamboo can be used for eating or for eating on. Many chefs around the world prefer using bamboo for cutting boards because of how durable and resistant it is. Plates, other dishes, and cutlery have also been constructed from this super grass.

Bamboo proves its versatility again in the home. It can be used in the construction of homes, and for both furniture and decoration within the home. There are many furniture companies now making creations from bamboo. Green and More is one of these companies. For a look at their fun and innovative designs check out: http://www.greenandmore.com/modern-bamboo-furniture.html?itemId=386&navContext=ln_gifts&landingId=l_gi5

One of the most important uses of bamboo is its use for the environment. Bamboo stands release almost 35% more oxygen than tree stand of the same size. It is a fast growing and sustainable resource that can be used for practically anything you can think of and it can be completely regenerated without replanting. It is also fantastic for soil conservation and reducing run-off. Bamboo is one of the most versatile and beneficial resources available on Earth. It is no wonder that this plant is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity.