While hemp and marijuana both belong to the Cannabis sativa genus of plants, their purposes, legalities, and chemical makeup differ. Understanding these differences is vital to making sense out of the cannabis world. It’s crucial, for example, when determining whether one wants to try THC edibles or CBD oil.
Chemical Composition
One notable difference is the tetrahydrocannabinol content, the psychoactive ingredient that produces the “high.” Marijuana generally contains 5-30% THC, depending upon the strain, which makes it popular for recreational and medicinal purposes. Hemp, on the other hand, is considered cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC and is legally defined as such in the U.S. Hemp is often rich in cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound known to possess therapeutic properties.
Uses
Hemp is a very versatile crop. Fibers from the plant are used for textile, paper, and construction materials. Seeds are used as a nutritional source of protein and omega fatty acids. Hemp-based CBD is common in well-being products. Marijuana, with its higher THC content, is mainly grown for medicinal and recreational use.
Legal Status
Hemp is federally legal in the U.S. under the 2018 Farm Bill, though state regulations may differ. Marijuana is federally illegal, though many states have legalized it for medical and/or recreational use.
In summary, though both hemp and marijuana come from the same plant species, their THC levels and purposes make them distinct. Hemp serves industries and wellness, while marijuana, in most cases, is consumed for psychoactive purposes and therapeutic benefits.
