When you walk into a CBD Dispensary, you are going to find a range of products. In this article, we are going to elaborate on the difference between marijuana and hemp. Having all the information you need about CBD is vital because it allows you to make the best decisions about the CBD products you are going to purchase. So let’s dive right in.
CBD
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of the many chemical components of Cannabis. It is majorly desired for its healing power. And unlike its cousin THC – another chemical component of Cannabis – CBD is not psychoactive thus it does not have euphoric effects on the user. CBD can be produced from either Hemp or Marijuana.
Hemp
Hemp is a term that is used to classify varieties of cannabis which contain 0.3% THC or less. According to the agricultural act of 2018, it is legal to grow and distribute hemp and hemp-based products. For the purpose of this article, the hemp-based products we are talking about are CBD products such as CBD oil, CBD edibles, CBD ointments, to mention but a few.
Marijuana
Marijuana is a term that is used to classify varieties of Cannabis which contain over 0.3% THC and can have psychotropic effects on the user. Under the agricultural act of 2018, the growing and distribution of marijuana and marijuana-based products is illegal.
The major difference between marijuana and hemp is the THC content. However, both contain CBD. But due to the different levels of THC in both – Hemp containing 0.3% THC or less by dry weight while Marijuana contains 30% THC or more by dry weight – marijuana and hemp are regulated differently. Marijuana is treated as a controlled substance and is illegal under the law. In comparison, hemp was federally legalized under the agricultural act of 2018.
However, it is important to note that both were formerly regulated as illegal under the controlled substance act of 1970.
Other differences between hemp and marijuana
Cultivation
Because hemp and marijuana are required for separate purposes, there growing conditions differ.
Marijuana is often cultivated in controlled environments. To optimize the breed’s produce and characteristics, one has to pay close attention to conditions like humidity, lighting, and temperature.
On the other hand, hemp does not require the level of attention and control necessary to cultivate marijuana hence it is usually grown outdoors.
Usage
Marijuana is most popular for its recreational use. However, studies have revealed that it can be effective for therapeutic purposes.
In contrast, hemp can be used to produce a range of products including medicinal products like CBD products, industrial products like paper and clothing, food products like cooking oil, etc.
