Hemp vs Marijuana: What’s the Difference?
Are you confused about the difference between hemp and marijuana? You’re not alone — many people don’t understand what makes them different. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cannabis user, we can help clear up the confusion so that you know exactly what to expect when it comes to these two popular plants. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between hemp and marijuana in depth. We’ll talk about why they are different (and how they’re the same lol), their distinct uses, and how each one affects your body differently. So let’s dive right into it — here’s everything you need to know about hemp vs marijuana!
Before Getting Into The Difference, Let’s Introduce The Cannabis Plant
Before getting into the difference between hemp and marijuana, let’s introduce the Cannabis plant. The cannabis genus of plants includes three species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Each of these species is unique in its own right, with distinct characteristics that set it apart from the other two. Cannabis sativa has a tall stature characterized by long internodes (the distance between nodes on a stem), making it an ideal choice for producing fibers and textiles such as rope or fabric. It also produces buds containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which can provide psychoactive effects when consumed.
The second species of cannabis is Cannabis indica. This variety is typically shorter and bushier than C.sativa, but still contains THC-rich buds used for medical and recreational use. Indica strains are known for their sedative effects that makes them great for helping with sleep and provide relief.
Finally, there is Cannabis ruderalis, a wild strain found mostly in central Russia and parts of Eastern Europe where it grows naturally due to its adaptation to cold climates. Ruderalis does not produce much THC compared to the other two varieties, but it does have high levels of cannabidiol (CBD). CBD provides many therapeutic benefits without any intoxicating effects, which makes this strain popular among medicinal users looking for relief without the “high.” Now that we’ve introduced the different types of cannabis plants available today, let’s dive into what distinguishes hemp from marijuana – starting first with what hemp is, and what it offers.
First, Tell Me About Hemp, What Is It, and What Does It Offer?
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis plant, and it has been used by humans for thousands of years. Hemp plants produce flowers that contain cannabinoids like CBD as well as hemp oil, which contains essential fatty acids such as omega-3s. Industrial hemp also produces fibers that are used to make clothing, paper, building materials, and more. It’s an incredibly versatile crop! Because industrial hemp contains less than 0.3% THC (the psychoactive component in marijuana), it doesn’t get you high like marijuana does; instead, many people use hemp flower or take hemp oil for its potential health benefits—such as aiding with stress and reducing discomfort—or even just for general wellness purposes.
Hemp seeds can also be eaten raw or ground up into flour and added to recipes, adding extra protein and nutrition to your meals. In short, there are so many ways to utilize all parts of the hemp plant: from enjoying its calming effects through smoking or taking tinctures to using it in food items or fabrics. With all these possibilities available to us, it’s no wonder why this amazing crop continues to be popular today!
What Is The Legal Definition Of “Hemp” Under Federal Law?
It’s no secret that hemp is gaining traction in the United States. But before we explore why it has become so popular, let’s take a closer look at what makes hemp unique and different from its close relative, marijuana. Hemp and marijuana are both derived from the cannabis plant; however, there is a major legal distinction between them – as defined by federal law. The 2018 Farm Bill defines hemp as “the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of such plant, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis”. For all intents and purposes, this means that plants containing anything over 0.3% THC are considered marijuana, while those below that amount are considered to be hemp.
This definition also applies to products made from these plants, including CBD oil derived from either type of cannabis plant. So why does this matter? Well for one thing, it allows companies to legally produce and sell hemp-derived products without fear of breaking any laws – something which was prohibited prior to 2018 due to restrictions placed on marijuana production and use under federal law. Furthermore, since industrial hemp cannot contain more than 0.3% THC content per dry weight basis according to the Farm Bill , users can rest assured knowing they won’t experience any psychoactive effects when consuming products made with hemp extracts like CBD oil . All in all, understanding the legal definition of ‘hemp’ under federal law provides valuable insight into how businesses can operate within their respective industries safely and responsibly.
What Is The History Of Hemp?
Hemp has been around for centuries, with its earliest uses being traced back to Ancient China. Its fibrous nature and versatility made it an ideal material in the production of clothing, rope, paper, and even oil-based products such as paint. However, hemp was lumped into the same category as marijuana when the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 classified both plants under Schedule I drugs. This meant that growing hemp became illegal in the United States overnight without a special permit from the DEA.
History | Impact |
---|---|
Hemp used by ancient civilizations for thousands of years | Illegal cultivation due to Controlled Substance Act of 1970 |
Used for textiles & food sources until 20th century | Permits necessary to grow hemp prior 2018 Farm Bill |
2014 & 2018 Farm Bills pass | Product development and economic growth |
Fortunately, things changed dramatically after President Trump signed off on the 2018 Farm Bill which removed hemp from the list of controlled substances and legalized its cultivation across all 50 states. Not only does this open up new opportunities for farmers looking to diversify their crop rotation but it also allows companies to produce more environmentally friendly products using renewable resources like hemp. The passage of the bill marked a turning point in US history that is sure to have far reaching implications in terms of industry regulation and consumer access to goods derived from cannabis sativa plant species.
What Is Marijuana And What Does It Offer?
There’s a lot of confusion around the difference between hemp and marijuana. Both are cannabis plants, but with some major differences. It’s important to understand these distinctions if you’re looking into using either for medicinal or recreational purposes.
Marijuana is the most widely-known type of cannabis plant, and it usually contains higher concentrations of THC than its counterpart: hemp. Cannabis seeds also vary depending on whether they’re intended for growing marijuana or hemp plants. Some seeds tend to produce heartier crops that are well suited for outdoor growth, while others will require more attention and care indoors or in greenhouses. CBD oil is derived from both types of cannabis plants, however due to legal restrictions only certain forms of CBD products made from industrial hemp may be sold in the US market.So now we know what sets them apart physically and agriculturally – but what about legally? That requires an understanding of how federal law defines ‘marijuana’ under US legislation – something we’ll cover next!
Learn more: What is THCa Flower?
What Is The Legal Definition Of “Marijuana” Under Federal Law?
Now that we’ve explored what marijuana is and the benefits it offers, let’s take a look at its legal definition under federal law. For starters, according to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug due to its potential for abuse, lack of accepted medical use in the United States, and safety concerns. This means that recreational use of marijuana remains federally illegal; however, some states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes.The legal definition of ‘marijuana’ can vary from state to state depending on their respective laws. Generally speaking though, the term refers to any part of the cannabis plant containing more than 0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the primary chemical compound responsible for producing intoxicating effects when consumed. On the other hand, hemp—the non-intoxicating variety of cannabis—contains less than 0.3% THC and does not produce psychoactive effects when ingested or smoked. As such, hemp has become increasingly popular among consumers looking for products with CBD but without THC’s associated high. It is also popular in states that don’t yet support legal adult marijuana use.In terms of legality, hemp was removed from CSA scheduling after Congress passed The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (otherwise known as the Farm Bill). This legislation made hemp farming and production fully legal across all 50 states provided they follow certain guidelines set by each individual jurisdiction regarding cultivation practices and product testing procedures. That said, while hemp may be federally legal now there are still distinctions between how it’s regulated versus marijuana since both plants come from cannabis sativa species yet offer very different properties that must be taken into account before making purchasing decisions about either one. To sum up what the main differences are between hemp vs marijuana based on above sections: 1. Hemp contains only trace amounts of THC whereas marijuana typically contains 15%-20% or more, and 2. hemp is federally legal whereas marijuana remain federally illegal and 3. hemp is used more often for industrial applications whereas marijuana is primarily used for medical & recreational purposes. However, hemp is quickly becoming used for the same purposes as marijuana.
Lets’s Summarize The Differences Between Hemp Vs Marijuana-Based On What We Know So Far
Comparing hemp and marijuana is like comparing apples to oranges- they have many differences, but some similarities as well. To break it down simply, there are two main distinctions between these plants: their chemical makeup and their uses. Below is a table summarizing the key points of comparison between hemp and marijuana plants.
Hemp | Marijuana |
---|---|
Low THC content (0.3% or less) | High THC content (5-30%) |
Non-psychoactive properties | Psychoactive properties |
Used for industrial materials, food/oil production, etc. | Mostly used for medical/recreational purposes |
Contains high levels of CBD & other cannabinoids | Generally low in CBD & other cannabinoids except when specifically bred for higher concentrations of such compounds |
Both hemp and marijuana contain various amounts of Cannabidiol (CBD), however hemp generally contains much more than marijuana does. In addition, hemp seed oil products often contain trace amounts of both cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This means that while using a product made from hemp derived CBD may not produce psychoactive effects, there still could be some minimal amount of THC present in the product due to its presence in the plant itself. Ultimately though, both cannabis plants offer different benefits depending on how they’re used; whether through health supplements like hemp derived CBD oils or by utilizing recreational substances derived from marijuana plants with higher THC contents.
Delta-8 vs Delta-9 Gummies: Which One Should You Try?
Is THC From Hemp The Same As THC From Marijuana? Do They Offer The Same Benefits?
When it comes to the difference between hemp and marijuana, one of the most commonly asked questions is: Is THC from hemp the same as THC from marijuana? The answer is both yes and no. Yes, in terms of what they are made up of chemically – both contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is a compound found in cannabis plants that can produce psychoactive effects when consumed. But no, in terms of their potency levels – with high-THC marijuana containing much more than low-THC hemp products.Hemp derived CBD products typically contain such low amounts of THC (<0.3%) that users will not experience any mind-altering effects at all. On other hand, higher levels of THC (>10%) have been measured in some samples of recreational or medical cannabis, enabling its consumers to experience the full range of potential psychological benefits associated with cannabinoids.So depending on your goals for using either Hemp or Marijuana you may find yourself gravitating towards one over the other due to varying cannabinoid profiles available within each plant species. For instance, if you want access to non-psychoactive forms of cannabinoids then hemp might be best suited for you; but if looking to receive the possible therapeutic benefits associated with consuming higher concentrations of cannabinoids like THC, then opting for marijuana would likely be more beneficial. Ultimately though it’s important to understand why one would pick hemp over marijuana and vice versa so that an informed decision can be made before diving headfirst into either product type.
Learn more: Guide to Hemp Derived Delta-9 THC
Why Would One Pick Hemp Over Marijuana And Vice Versa?
When it comes to hemp vs marijuana, there are some key differences between the two. Marijuana plants typically contain high levels of THC, while hemp contains very little or no THC at all. Hemp derived CBD oil is usually preferred over medical cannabis for those who don’t wish to experience a “high” feeling associated with marijuana use. Additionally, hemp leaves may have more beneficial compounds than other parts of the plant when used medicinally due to their higher concentration of cannabinoids like CBD and CBG.For these reasons, many people prefer using hemp-derived products instead of marijuana as they can still gain access to therapeutic benefits without having to worry about getting high. While both offer unique health benefits in different ways, hemp may be preferable if you want something that won’t give you an intoxicating effect but will still provide relief from symptoms. On the other hand, medical cannabis might be your top choice if you need stronger effects for chronic pain and illness management.It’s important to understand the subtle distinctions between hemp and marijuana before deciding which one is better suited for your needs. Both types have similar cannabinoid profiles; however, the difference lies in their THC content as well as how they interact with our bodies and minds when consumed or applied topically. Ultimately, understanding both substances helps us decide which one works best medicinally based on its individual properties and effects.
Is Hemp Or Marijuana Better Medicinally?
The debate of hemp vs marijuana is one that has been around for many years. Both are derived from cannabis plants, but the difference lies in their THC content and how they can be used medicinally. While both possess therapeutic benefits, it’s important to understand the differences between them so you can choose which type best suits your needs.
When it comes to medical marijuana, THC may be what makes it effective in treating certain conditions such as pain or nausea caused by chemotherapy treatments. Hemp-derived CBD products can contain very little amounts of THC and therefore cannot produce a “high”. However, these products still have plenty of other beneficial compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids that all work together in what is known as the entourage effect – where all cannabinoids work synergistically to amplify each other’s effects. And some products like 50mg Delta-9 Gummies are made from hemp, but have a sufficient amount of Delta-9 THC to bring on the same feelings of being high and intoxicated.On the other hand, cannabis oil derived from marijuana contains higher concentrations of THC which may give users psychoactive effects when consumed. This means that those who use this form of cannabis will experience more intense relief than with hemp-based products due to its greater potency; however, users should always consult with their doctor before using any product containing THC since different people respond differently to its active ingredient.What’s important is the entourage effect – understanding why and how all cannabinoids work together – not just THC alone – is key to getting the most out of your medicinal choices and making sure you get the best results possible for whatever health condition you’re trying to treat..
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is one of the most important aspects when it comes to cannabis products, and understanding how all cannabinoids work together. Hemp and marijuana plants both contain a variety of different compounds that interact with each other in unique ways, creating what’s known as an “entourage effect.” This means that these compounds can amplify or alter the effects of each individual cannabinoid, resulting in greater therapeutic benefits than if they were taken alone. For example, THC is believed to be more effective when combined with CBD, terpenes, and other minor cannabinoids like CBG or CBN. In fact, research suggests that this synergy among cannabinoids may even enhance some of the therapeutic effects associated with them. Therefore, taking advantage of the entourage effect could help you get the most out of your hemp and marijuana plant-based products.
Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, And Delta 10 THC From Hemp?
Hemp and marijuana are two distinct plants, while they share similar origins and both contain cannabinoids, the THC levels differ drastically between them. To meet the definition, hemp contains no more than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC whereas marijuana contains more than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC. Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC all refer to different forms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Delta-8 is an isomer of Delta-9 that has a lower psychotropic potency but higher binding affinity for cannabinoid receptors in the body. It produces a milder high with fewer side effects. Delta-9 is the most abundant form found in cannabis products as it’s known for its strong psychoactive properties which produce a “high” feeling when consumed. Finally, there’s Delta-10 THC; another isomer that has slightly stronger psychoactivity relative to Delta-8 but still less than Delta-9.
Delta-8 vs Delta-9 vs Delta-10 THC: What’s the Difference?When exploring new hemp-derived products, consumers should be aware of what type of THC is being used so they know what kind of experience they may have with the product. For instance, if someone is looking for a milder buzz and mellower mind-altering effects, then opting for a product containing mostly or solely Delta-8 may be ideal for them. If someone wants something stronger then selecting one with primarily or exclusively Delta-9 would suit their needs best.
Delta-9 Indica vs Sativa Gummies: Which One to ChooseIt’s important to note that regardless of whether you choose hemp or marijuana derived products, always remember to start low and go slow when trying out new things – especially those containing high amounts of THC! The right balance will ensure you get the desired results without overdoing it and having unwanted experiences along the way. With this knowledge in hand, consumers can make better informed decisions about which types of cannabis products might work best for them depending on individual preferences and what outcomes they hope to achieve from using them (e.g., relaxation vs stimulation).
Type Of THC | Effects |
---|---|
Delta 8 | Milder High & Less Psychoactivity |
Delta 9 | Strongest Psychoactive Properties |
Delta 10 | Milder High & Medium Psychoactivity |
Now that we’ve discussed differences between hemp and marijuana as well as explored various types of THC available through these strains, let’s look at where you can buy high potency hemp-derived THCs like Deltas 8,9 & 10 online safely and securely.
Where To Buy High Potency Hemp-Derived THC Products
Buying high-potency hemp-derived THC products is easier than ever these days! With the legalization of cannabis, many companies have begun selling a variety of hemp and marijuana products. But what’s the difference between the two? Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), whereas marijuana has much higher levels of the psychoactive compound. So when it comes to buying THC products specifically, you’ll want to make sure you buy from a reputable source that sells only pure hemp-derived THC.
Choose the Right Cannabis Strain: Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid
When shopping for top-quality hemp and marijuana products, look for items containing natural ingredients – that come from high quality plants grown organically. Be sure to check out reviews before making your purchase so you know exactly what you’re getting.
To Be or Not to Be Psychoactive: THCa vs Delta-8 THCThe best way to ensure that you get the highest quality product is by doing extensive research into different brands and types of hemp and marijuana products available on the market today. Read up on reviews, compare prices, speak to industry experts – whatever it takes to make an informed decision about which product is right for you! It’s always important to remember that no matter what type of legal cannabis product you are looking for – whether its CBD edibles, vape pens or concentrates – choosing responsibly sourced goods can make all the difference in terms of potency and enjoyment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hemp and marijuana are both derived from the cannabis plant; but there is an important distinction between them. Hemp contains very low levels of THC, meaning it won’t get you high like marijuana does. This makes hemp a great choice for medicinal purposes, as its cannabinoid profile can still provide therapeutic benefits without any psychoactive effects. Furthermore, certain strains of hemp contain higher concentrations of cannabinoids such as Delta-8 or Delta-10 THC that may offer even more potent effects and benefits than traditional marijuana products. You also may want to check out THCa Hemp Flower – it may be the closest thing to marijuana and you can order online!However, some people might argue that buying CBD or other hemp-derived products could be risky due to their unregulated nature. We recommend doing your own research before making any purchases and looking into reputable companies who have lab test results available on their websites. With these precautions in mind, hemp-derived products can often be safer and more effective alternatives to traditional medical treatments—especially in states without state run cannabis programs.
Read next: Sativa vs Indica Strains – What Is the Difference?
Medical Disclaimer / Legal Disclaimer – Information is provided for educational purposes. It does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice or medical advice. We attempt to be accurate and up-to-date, but the legality of cannabinoids and the science of cannabis are evolving. The author is neither a legal professional nor a medical expert. Before buying or using any products, you should check with your local authorities and medical providers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hemp and marijuana the same?
Yes and no – hemp and marijuana are both the same genus of plant – Cannabis – and both produce the same set of cannabinoids. They differ mainly in their legal definition in the US Farm Bill. Cannabis with no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is defined as hemp, whereas cannabis with more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is defines as marijuana.
Where can you buy intoxicating hemp?
You can buy lawful hemp-derived products with various levels of mind altering effects online or in stores. hemp is federally lawful under the Farm Bill for the whole country but some states do make their own regulations. You should check local rules before purchasing.
Does hemp get you high?
Yes and no – hemp is defined in the US Farm Bill as cannabis with no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Hemp from the field might not get anyone high, but hemp produces all the types of THC that are found in marijuana, and can produce intoxication and feelings of being “high” when certain hemp-derived cannabinoids are used in sufficient amounts.