HEMP VS MARIJUANA
Why compare Hemp vs Marijuana?
Hemp and Marijuana are both variants of the Cannabis Sativa Plant, commonly referred to as cannabis. This annual herbaceous flowering plant contains two primary chemical groups: Terpenes and Cannabinoids. Terpenes offer unique flavors and aromas, while Cannabinoids exhibit various therapeutic and recreational characteristics. Although officially 113 cannabinoids have been confirmed, reports indicate that in many cases, the number may surpass 120.
The hemp plant is different from Marijuana.
In numerous aspects – through its function, cultivation, and application – cannabis has played a pivotal role. Back in 1970, lawmakers failed to grasp the nuances and opted to prohibit all forms of cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, categorizing it as a Schedule 1 drug. This remained unchanged until the 2018 Farm Bill introduced an amendment legalizing Hemp in the U.S., with Hemp being defined by its THC levels of 0.3% or less. A notable step forward is to legalize cannabis! #legalizecannabis
Hemp Doesn’t Fit With Taboo Cannabis Culture
The hemp plant has a variety of uses, including being used as a holistic option, and the fibers can be formed into clothing, paper, and rope. Marijuana has up to 30% THC. Thus, the psychoactive properties make you “High,” so it is still banned. Many states are beginning to legalize the recreational use of Marijuana, but it will not be entirely legal until the Federal Government does so.
Will Hemp get you “High?”
By law, Hemp contains less than 0.3% of the psychoactive compound Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and is rich in the non-psychoactive compound Cannabidiol (CBD). Reputable companies like Steve’s Goods typically refine their products to eliminate THC. Essentially, consuming Hemp CBD will not induce any psychoactive effects.
Marijuana vs. Hemp can be simplified as THC vs. CBD.
THC and CBD interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system to elicit their effects. This system functions to maintain a state of equilibrium known as “homeostasis.” The endocannabinoid system comprises two types of receptors: CB1, primarily found in the brain, and CB2, dispersed throughout the body.
Tetrahydrocannabinol
(I still find it just as challenging to pronounce as the day I first encountered it)
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound accountable for the psychoactive effects of Marijuana. The THC content in Marijuana typically falls within the range of 5-30%, while industrial Hemp, legally termed as such, contains a maximum of 0.03% THC. THC triggers the CB1 receptors in the brain, initiating its effects.
CBD interacts with CB2 receptors distributed throughout the body to elicit its effects.
Research indicates that the cannabinoids in Hemp synergistically enhance each other’s effects, known as the “entourage effect.” Even small amounts of THC in Hemp can amplify the impact of CBD. Typically labeled as full spectrum, these products highlight the synergy between compounds. It’s not about “hemp vs marijuana” or “CBD or THC,” but rather the combined benefits of both elements.
Distinguishing Hemp from Marijuana
Cannabis plant: Appearance
Marijuana and Hemp exhibit distinct visual characteristics. The marijuana plant is grown using cannabis seeds. The hemp plant is recognized by its broad leaves, dense buds, and nugget-like appearance, often adorned with fine hairs or crystals. In contrast, hemp plants feature slender leaves that cluster at the top, with minimal foliage on lower branches. At a glance, Marijuana resembles a compact, bushy plant, while hemp varieties cultivated for fiber or seeds tend to be taller and more slender, reaching heights of up to 20 feet.
Natural Plant Profile: Cannabis Chemistry
The primary distinction lies in their chemical makeup, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being key components. THC is the compound accountable for Marijuana’s psychoactive effects. In the Hemp vs Marijuana debate of CBD vs THC, Hemp emerges as the victor, while the converse holds for THC.
Major Cannabinoid Potency
Typically, marijuana strains contain THC levels ranging from 5% to 20%, with some variants reaching as high as 30%. In contrast, legal Hemp is limited to 0.3% THC, preventing any psychoactive effects. Hemp boasts higher CBD content, providing a variety of distinct advantages.
Environmental Factors:
Major Cannabinoids – Hemp vs Marijuana Plants
Hemp and Marijuana are cultivated in contrasting environments. In expansive multi-acre fields, Hemp is densely grown, sometimes just 4 inches apart. This robust plant thrives in various climates, ranging from hot to cold. Its growth cycle spans approximately 108-120 days.
Legal Distinctions:
Hemp Flower: Legally, Hemp is classified as a cannabis plant containing 0.3% or less THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) on a dry weight basis. This definition comes from the 2018 Farm Bill in the United States, which legalized Hemp federally. Consequently, hemp flower is legal to grow, sell, and consume under federal law, provided it adheres to this THC threshold.
Marijuana Flower: Marijuana refers to cannabis plants (also known as cannabis flower) that contain more than 0.3% THC. Marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level in the U.S., although many states have legalized it for medical and recreational use. The legality of possessing and using marijuana flower varies significantly depending on state laws.
Chemical Composition:
Hemp Flower: Hemp is high in CBD (cannabidiol) and low in THC. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with THC. Smokable hemp flower is sought after for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as stress reduction, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory properties, without inducing significant psychoactive effects.
Marijuana Flower: Marijuana typically contains a higher concentration of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It may also contain various levels of CBD and other cannabinoids. Users often choose marijuana flower for its psychoactive effects, which can include euphoria, relaxation, altered perception of time, and increased appetite, among others.
User Experience:
Hemp Flower: When smoked, hemp flower is reported to induce a calming and relaxing effect without the intense high that Marijuana is known for. Users may choose hemp flower to alleviate mood support, support sleep, or manage pain without experiencing significant psychoactive effects.
Marijuana Flower: Smoking marijuana flower results in a potent high, influenced by its THC content. The intensity and nature of the experience can vary based on the strain, THC levels, and individual user tolerance. Effects can range from uplifting and energetic to deeply relaxing or sedative.
Appearance and Usage:
While hemp and marijuana flowers can look similar to the untrained eye, they are often distinguishable by their aroma and cannabinoid profile. Both can be consumed in similar ways, including smoking, vaping, or as a base for edibles, but the intended outcomes and legal implications differ markedly.
There exist numerous varieties of Hemp.
Comparisons between Hemp and Marijuana can be extensive. Some strains are cultivated for their fibers, while others are for their seeds or CBD content. Marijuana thrives in a tropical-like setting, requiring precise control of warmth and humidity for optimal growth, with a growth cycle lasting only 60-90 days. Cannabis plants are typically spaced 6 feet apart. It’s crucial to cultivate Hemp and Marijuana separately because their pollen can cross-contaminate, rendering them both less effective.
The Growing Importance Of Sourcing Well
It’s crucial to obtain cannabis from a trustworthy, dependable source. Since cannabis isn’t fully federally regulated yet, the quality often hinges on the source. Companies and farms in the U.S. and Canada are typically reliable and rigorously tested. Conversely, sources from regions like China that grow hemp can exhibit significant disparities in both quality and dependability.
Steve’s Goods has experience in cultivating Hemp.
Choosing a reliable source is paramount nowadays. Steve’s Goods excels in crafting hemp-derived CBD products. All hemp oil is sourced from Colorado. Every batch of hemp oil undergoes third-party lab testing. By collaborating closely with Colorado farms, Steve’s Goods guarantees the use of top-tier hemp crops in all our products.
~ Steve’s Goods is on Social Media!~
Check us out on Instagram and Facebook!
-If you would like to join our affiliate program…
Please find our portal here.
-If you are interested in bulk and wholesale options for this product…
Please find our wholesale program here.
-For copies of our recent lab test results…
Visit our Certificates of Analysis on this page.
