Cannabinoids — substances found in the cannabis plant — have an impressive range of health benefits. If you’re curious about these natural wellness boosters, you’ve likely seen products containing cannabidiol (CBD), hemp, or some combination of the two. Make no mistake: These terms aren’t interchangeable. Read on to find out about hemp vs. CBD, and how both could fit into your wellness routine.

Hemp vs. CBD: What’s the Difference?

CBD and hemp aren’t quite the same thing, though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Let’s start by exploring how each of these products is formulated:

• Hemp: The term “hemp” refers to a specific variety of C. sativa — specifically, C. sativa plants with less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. When you think of the psychoactive properties of marijuana — the kind that delivers a high — you’re thinking of the effects of THC. In other words, hemp is derived from C. sativa plants that have very low psychoactive properties. For that reason, it’s grown legally across the United States, and it’s a great option for anyone who wants to experience the benefits of C. sativa without feeling a high.
• CBD: CBD is extracted directly from hemp plants. CBD is taken from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the plant and offers a wide variety of benefits (more on those in a bit).

Hemp vs. CBD: THC content

If you’re new to the world of cannabinoids, you might be curious about products with different levels of THC — basically, products that may induce more or less of a high. Since CBD is derived from hemp plants, which contain 0.3 percent or less THC, CBD is considered a non-psychoactive product. (That’s why it’s legal in states with heavy restrictions on THC.) However, some CBD products are classified as “marijuana-derived.” Unlike traditional CBD, these products are intentionally taken from plants with higher THC levels. In these products, you’ll see potentially psychoactive effects, though they’re often milder than strictly THC-focused products.

Finally, some types of hemp are processed with THC to create products like tinctures or gummies. These products may induce euphoria similar to THC-focused products. If you’d like to avoid psychoactive effects, be sure to read your product labels closely.

Hemp vs. CBD: Potential Benefits

Since CBD is derived directly from hemp, both products offer similar benefits. Those potential effects include the following:

• Relief from pain
• Improved sleep and relaxation
• Benefits of cannabis (relaxation, etc.) without worrying about feeling high or anxious
• An all-natural way to wind down at the end of the day

Hemp Products for Beginners

Curious about trying hemp or CBD products? Here are a few options to start:

• Tinctures: We’ve created a broad-spectrum tincture with hemp extract, which acts as a THC-free alternative to full-spectrum hemp. This product offers all of the health benefits of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and phytonutrients while removing the psychoactive effect entirely. It’s a great place to start for beginners who are curious about the health benefits of hemp.
• Gummies: Got a sweet tooth? Try our THC-free CBD Gummies. Like our tinctures, they offer the health benefits of multiple cannabinoids without the psychoactive or euphoric effects of THC. Plus, they taste great!

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So, what’s the difference between hemp vs. CBD? The short answer: CBD is generally derived directly from hemp.

Interested in trying hemp or CBD? Check out Metta Hemp. While you’re visiting our online shop, be sure to peruse our vast collection of CBD gummies, joints, tinctures, topicals, vapes, flowers, and more. Founded in 2017, Metta Hemp is committed to providing high-quality products, ethically grown cannabis, and kind and helpful customer service. Find our products in a store near you or shop online today!