Difference Between Cannabis and Hemp: Comparison
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Time: 4 min
Introduction
Curious about the difference between cannabis and hemp in 2024? Many are unsure, understandably so, as both originate from the Cannabis sativa family. This guide clarifies their distinctions, exploring their chemical composition, legal standing, and diverse uses, encompassing topics from CBD oil and hemp CBD to medical marijuana and the term marijuana.
Table of Content
The Key Difference: THC Content
Both cannabis and hemp plants contain various cannabinoids. However, the main difference lies in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in marijuana. Hemp is legally defined as cannabis with 0.3% or less THC by dry weight, a definition solidified by the 2018 Agricultural Act.
Marijuana, conversely, boasts significantly higher THC levels, frequently exceeding 20%, making it way more potent than hemp. This stark contrast in THC content is central to their distinct classifications and applications.
Unpacking the Uses of Cannabis and Hemp
The difference between cannabis and hemp extends to their uses. Hemp's low THC content makes it suitable for industrial and commercial purposes, traditionally for clothes, rope, and paper.
Now, hemp finds new life in food products like hemp seed and hemp milk, and even construction due to its sustainable and fast-growing nature. This eco-friendly material contributes to environmentally conscious product development.
Marijuana, with its higher THC, is primarily cultivated for psychoactive and medicinal effects. Used directly or in products like tinctures and edibles, marijuana targets wellness and recreational needs. Specific breeding maximizes desired traits for various health and lifestyle outcomes, aligning with individual preferences. This targeted approach emphasizes health equity.
In Other Words: Hemp and cannabis are used for different purposes due to their THC content. Hemp, with its low THC, is used for things like clothing, food products, and even eco-friendly construction materials. On the other hand, cannabis, which has higher THC, is mainly grown for its psychoactive and medicinal effects, and it's used in wellness products like tinctures and edibles.
CBD: A Shared Compound
Interestingly, both cannabis and hemp contain cannabidiol (CBD). This non-intoxicating cannabinoid constitutes about 40% of the plant’s extract and has gained immense popularity for its potential wellness benefits.
Many consume CBD products like full-spectrum CBD and CBD oils to experience purported positive effects without the high. People report CBD as potentially helpful for both physical and mental health conditions, from multiple sclerosis and breast cancer to parkinson's disease and anxiety.
Legality: A Complex Issue
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) legalized the use of hemp and its byproducts all across Europe. However, countries can regulate hemp-derived products like CBD, leading to regional variations.
CBD from marijuana remains union-wide illegal, making the source crucial. Consumers should differentiate hemp-derived CBD from other forms like the ones listed on Drugs A-Z sites. Many cannabis-related resources guide you through what the difference between products such as digital and traditional marketing for various products is.
Cannabis vs. Hemp: A Summary
Here's a table summarizing the key differences between cannabis and hemp:
Feature |
Hemp |
Marijuana |
THC Content |
0.3% or less |
Typically much higher (5%-30%) |
CBD Content |
Can be high (40%+ of dry weight) |
Can vary, more commonly less |
Legal Status (EU) |
Union-wide legal (with restrictions) |
Union-wide illegal (varies by country) |
Primary Use |
Industrial uses, animal feed, CBD products. |
Medicinal and recreational |
Distinguishing between CBD oil, hemp oil, and marijuana-derived products can be confusing. Consider learning through at-home testing to grow hemp.
Conclusion
While both derived from the same plant family, cannabis and hemp differ significantly. Their chemical makeup, particularly THC content, distinguishes their intended uses and legal status. Understanding these core differences is crucial for navigating the legal cannabis landscape and appreciating the versatile nature of cannabis species. Whether discussing medicinal marijuana, recreational cannabis, or health equity, further research is vital for grasping the health benefits of various cannabinoids.
"The greatest wealth is health."
FAQs About Difference Between Cannabis and Hemp
What’s the difference between cannabis and hemp?
The main difference is in the THC content. Hemp is a type of cannabis that contains very low levels of THC (less than 0.2% in the EU), while cannabis generally refers to varieties that have higher THC levels, which is what makes you feel "high." Hemp is mostly used for industrial purposes, like textiles and CBD, while cannabis is used for recreational and medicinal purposes.
Can I legally grow hemp in the EU?
Yes, you can grow hemp in the EU, but there are strict rules. It must be a variety with less than 0.2% THC, and you’ll need to get approval from your local authorities. Some countries also offer subsidies for hemp cultivation, especially for those growing it for industrial or CBD purposes.
Are cannabis and hemp the same plant?
Yes, both cannabis and hemp come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa. However, the key difference lies in how they are grown and used. Hemp is cultivated for its fibers, seeds, and CBD products, while cannabis is grown primarily for its psychoactive properties (higher THC content).
Author: Edijs Eleksis
Growing up in a country where cannabis was stigmatized and even shamed, Edijs faced many roadblocks to get to enjoy the benefits of this plant. However, as more countries worldwide are opening up to the idea of cannabis-available society, Edijs is inspired to take on a mission: spreading awareness about cannabis and its industry in Europe through engaging, educational blog content. Because only with more information, humans as a collective, can make decisions that are better for all of us!
