Hemp vs Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

Hemp and marijuana are strains of cannabis sativa. Despite the similarity, the two strains differ in legality, appearance, and composition. Furthermore, the two strains of marijuana have varying uses and benefits.

Is Hemp the Same as Marijuana?

Although hemp and marijuana are similar plant species, they have a couple of differences. The central difference between marijuana and hemp is the amount of CBD and THC in each variety.

Hemp has high levels of CBD and low amounts of THC. Its sibling, marijuana, has more THC and significant quantities of CBD.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a marijuana variety with low THC content – less than 0.03%. Hemp plants grow taller than other marijuana varieties. Their stem is slender and hollow, and the leaves have a distinctive shape. Commercial growers cultivate it for fiber, CBD, and biofuel.

Does Hemp Contain THC?

Yes, hemp contains THC. USDA guidelines specify that hemp cultivated for industrial use should have THC levels lower than 0.03%. Because of the low THC content, hemp does not intoxicate. The trace levels of THC are the reasons hemp is legal.

What are the Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana?

There are many differences between hemp vs. weed when it comes to consumption, legalization, and composition. The most notable is the THC content in the two varieties of cannabis. In particular, hemp has low quantities of THC, and marijuana contains high cannabinoids. Other notable variations between hemp and marijuana include the following:

Hemp vs. Marijuana: Composition

In regard to plant composition, hemp and marijuana have many similar substances. Some common compounds in each of the two strains include terpenes, cannabinoids, cannabidiols, and flavonoids. Note that each cannabis variety has varying amounts of the above compounds.

Hemp vs. Marijuana: Uses

Manufacturers grow hemp for CBD and hemp oil to make nutritional and wellness products such as hemp protein. Likewise, textile manufacturers use hemp plants as a source of fiber for textiles.

Marijuana is popular among recreational consumers since it has potent levels of psychoactive THC. Connoisseurs smoke, vape, or ingest it to get a high that promotes relaxation and gives a euphoric feeling. In some instances, health practitioners recommend marijuana as a pain reliever.

Hemp vs. Marijuana: CBD

Both marijuana and hemp are rich sources of CBD. Nevertheless, industrial hemp tends to have higher CBD content levels than its sibling, marijuana. The high CBD content makes hemp the preferred variety for commercial growers producing CBD oil.