There are many myths surrounding the differences between hemp and marijuana. Some regard hemp as the male parts of the marijuana plant. This is not the case. Although both hemp and marijuana are types of the Cannabis Sativa plant, they are in fact, two different plants. It is similar to different types of roses. Although all rose plants are roses, some are bred to create different colored flowers or no thorns. They are still the same type of plant, but the various types produce different outcomes when grown.
CBD Content
One big difference between marijuana and hemp plants is their CBD content. Hemp plants were bred to have higher CBD content than marijuana plants. Although marijuana does contain CBD, it is at far lower levels. This makes hemp the better choice for the production of CBD for use. Whether it is inhaled or ingested, CBD has become a popular product for a variety of issues. Many people can easily purchase hemp and CBD products at local retailers and online stores. Customers can check out Pure Relief for more information about various hemp products.
THC Content
The most discussed product of the Cannabis Sativa plant is the THC content. This is the part of the plant that can cause a high. It is also considered a schedule 1 drug by the federal government. Marijuana plants are bred to create higher levels of THC. These levels are anywhere between a 5% to 30% concentration for marijuana. Hemp, however, has less than 0.3% THC. This is considered far too low for anyone to have any psychoactive effects. Having such a low concentration of THC with its high concentration of CBD makes hemp the best option for CBD production.
The Legality of Marijuana Vs. Hemp
Beginning with the 1937 Marihuana Tax Act and other legislation through the 1970 Controlled Substance Act, all growing of any type of cannabis was illegal in the U.S. Still today, THC is considered a schedule 1 drug by the DEA. This makes it an illegal substance on the federal level. Even though some states have allowed medical and even recreational usage of THC legal, it is still considered a controlled substance on the federal level. As for hemp, although lacking in the THC, it was still caught up in the previous legislation until the 2018 Farm Act made it legal to grow hemp that contained less than 0.3% THC in the U.S.
The Uses of Marijuana Vs. Hemp
Marijuana is primarily grown for its THC content. This makes it heavily regulated by local and state governments to ensure proper handling occurs due to it still being considered a schedule 1 drug. Most production is used to create products that consumers can enjoy the benefits they receive from THC and even the CBD in the plants. Hemp, however, is grown for a wide variety of reasons. Hemp fibers can be used for fabric, insulation, carpeting, automobile parts, and other widely used products. Hemp oil can be used in cooking additives, food products, dietary supplements, fuel, detergents, and other products. Hemp seeds are also widely used for confections, beer, flour, and even non-dairy milk products. The industrial hemp industry is providing a renewable resource for many applications.
When it is all boiled down, the main difference between hemp and marijuana is simply whether it has much THC or not. However, most consumers can be confident in using a variety of CBD products legally and without risks of any type of high if they purchase those made from hemp. This ensures they get the benefits they are looking for that are widely available in every state.
