The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana

If you often confuse marijuana and hemp, you’re not alone. Although they both share a connection with cannabis, which is why they’re both associated with cannabis imagery, they produce different effects and are viewed and used in unique ways. Let’s explore the difference between hemp and marijuana. What characteristics do they share? How can you tell them apart?

Botany

Occasionally, you’ll see declarations that hemp and marijuana are different plants. Or, you may hear that they’re different species of the same plant. Neither of these assertions is accurate. Taxonomically speaking, hemp and marijuana are the same plant: cannabis, which is a flowering plant in the Cannabaceae family. They look and smell the same. So, why aren’t they identical? To understand the difference between hemp and marijuana, you need to look at their cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are compounds and chemicals found in the cannabis plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is what gets the lion’s share of the attention because it’s the chemical responsible for the high that can accompany marijuana use.

Hemp is legally defined as cannabis that has a THC content of 0.3% or less by dry weight. It’s considered too low to result in a high. The THC content in marijuana can vary, but any cannabis that has a THC content of 0.3% or more by dry weight is legally considered to be marijuana. Today, most marijuana has a THC content between 15% and 35%.

Uses

For many people, the difference between hemp and marijuana that’s most interesting involves their potential uses. It’s an interesting distinction.

Marijuana is also called pot, dope, weed, and Mary Jane. Because of its higher THC content, it produces psychoactive side effects. Therefore, it’s sought after for recreational and wellness purposes. Consumption methods include smoking using a joint or bong, inhaling vaporized marijuana, and eating marijuana mixed into foods (also known as edibles).

Hemp is traditionally viewed as a crop. It grows more rapidly than trees, so it’s considered a sustainable alternative. It’s also rather nutritious since it’s high in protein and fiber. Hemp is used to produce a wide range of products, including all of the following:

• Paper
• Clothing
• Plastics
• Animal feed
• Food products like hemp oil, hemp protein powder, and hemp milk
• Cannabidiol, or CBD products, including gummies, joints, tinctures, dabs, topicals, and vapes

Let’s take a moment to talk about the last item on that list: CBD.

CBD is the second-most prevalent cannabinoid after THC. Unlike THC, it doesn’t produce a high, so it’s popular with people interested in the potential health benefits of cannabis who don’t wish to get stoned. Often made from hemp, CBD products are below the 0.3% threshold for THC, so they’re legal to use. People from all age groups and backgrounds currently use CBD products to help with a variety of health concerns.

It’s worth noting that CBD is just one of many potentially beneficial cannabinoids found in hemp. As a result, savvy users interested in the health benefits of cannabinoids often opt for hemp products. Doing so lets them enjoy the benefits of CBD and other helpful cannabinoids without the intoxication or other side effects associated with THC consumption.

Want the benefits of cannabis without the worries? 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!