Cannabis has long been a topic of intrigue and confusion, and at the heart of the matter lies the distinction between hemp and marijuana. These terms are often used interchangeably but represent distinct varieties of the same plant species, Cannabis sativa. So, what exactly sets them apart, and why does it matter? This article breaks down the key differences between hemp and marijuana, highlighting their properties, uses, and legal status.
What is Hemp?
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant primarily cultivated for industrial use. It has been grown for centuries for its fibrous stalks, used to create textiles, rope, paper, and even sustainable building materials. Hemp plants are typically tall and have skinny leaves, making them well-suited for fiber-rich purposes. (1)
One of the crucial characteristics of hemp is its low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content. THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. In hemp, the THC concentration is limited to less than 0.3%, rendering it non-intoxicating. This makes hemp an ideal candidate for various applications without inducing any mind-altering effects.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana, commonly known as “weed” or “pot,” represents a distinct strain of the Cannabis sativa plant. Diverging from hemp, marijuana is predominantly cultivated for its medicinal and recreational attributes. Typically, marijuana plants exhibit shorter, bushier growth with broader leaves. The pivotal distinction is found within its THC content, encompassing a spectrum from as low as 5% to 30% or beyond. (2)
Due to its higher THC levels, marijuana is known for its psychoactive effects. When consumed, the THC interacts with the brain’s receptors, leading to altered perception, relaxation, and sometimes even euphoria. This is why marijuana has been used for both recreational and medicinal purposes.
Marijuana CBD vs. Hemp CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in both hemp and marijuana. It has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, ranging from pain relief to anxiety reduction. However, CBD sourced from marijuana and CBD sourced from hemp can differ in terms of legality and THC content. (3)
CBD derived from hemp is widely available and legal in many places. It contains minimal THC, well within the legal limit of 0.3%. This form of CBD is non-intoxicating and is the primary ingredient in many products, from oils and tinctures to edibles and skincare.
CBD derived from marijuana, on the other hand, may contain higher levels of THC. The legality of marijuana-derived CBD varies depending on the state’s cannabis laws. In states where marijuana is legal for medicinal or recreational use, CBD sourced from marijuana might also be legal.
The Legality of Hemp and Marijuana
The legal landscape surrounding hemp and marijuana is a complex tapestry. The 2018 Farm Bill in the United States played a significant role in distinguishing between the two. Hemp, defined as Cannabis sativa containing less than 0.3% THC, was removed from the list of controlled substances. This opened the doors for legal cultivation, production, and distribution of hemp and its products, including CBD. (4)
Marijuana, however, remains federally classified as a controlled substance due to its higher THC content. While some states have legalized its use for medical or recreational purposes, it’s essential to remember that marijuana’s legal status remains a patchwork nationwide.
Similarities between Hemp and Marijuana
Hemp and marijuana, both members of the Cannabis sativa family, share common genetic origins and a range of chemical compounds, including cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol). Both plants have a history of human use dating back centuries for various purposes, from medicinal to industrial. Additionally, hemp and marijuana have been subjects of extensive research due to their potential therapeutic applications. (5)
However, these similarities often blur the fact that they are distinct varieties with notable differences in their THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, growth patterns, and legal classifications. While both plants can produce CBD, hemp is cultivated specifically for its high CBD content, while marijuana is known for its elevated THC levels, responsible for its psychoactive effects. Thus, understanding their shared attributes while acknowledging their differences is crucial to making informed decisions regarding their use and potential benefits.
Also Read – Exploring FAQs about CBD: Expert Insights and Latest Research
Expert Insights
Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, Organic Chemist and Professor of Medicinal Chemistry:
“The cannabis plant is actually a botanical puzzle. The most important pieces are two compounds found exclusively in the cannabis plant: THC, which gets people high, and CBD, which doesn’t. Plants that are high in THC and low in CBD are referred to as marijuana, and plants that are high in CBD and low in THC are called hemp.”
Dr. Ethan Russo, Neurologist and Cannabis Researcher:
“Hemp is from the male plant, which does not have any buds or flowers, and marijuana is from the female [plant], which has all the buds and flowers. They’re both cannabis sativa.”
Jonathan Page, Botanist and Cannabis Researcher:
“Hemp and marijuana are the same species but are defined by their cannabinoid content. Hemp has been bred to have low THC content. You could smoke a telephone pole’s worth of hemp and you won’t get high.”
Dr. Bonnie Goldstein, Medical Cannabis Specialist:
“The primary difference between hemp and marijuana is the level of THC in the plant. Hemp has high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and very low levels of THC. Marijuana, on the other hand, has high levels of THC and low levels of CBD.”
Dr. Lester Grinspoon, Psychiatrist and Cannabis Advocate:
“The essential difference between [hemp and marijuana] is that marijuana is used recreationally because of its psychoactive or ‘intoxicating’ properties, while hemp is used almost exclusively for food, seed, fiber, and medicinal applications.”
Takeaway
In the grand scheme of the cannabis family tree, hemp, and marijuana are like two branches with distinct characteristics and purposes. With its industrial applications and low THC content, hemp offers a range of sustainable solutions. On the other hand, marijuana’s higher THC content opens doors to various medical and recreational possibilities, albeit with legal nuances. As society grapples with the complexities of cannabis legalization and utilization, understanding the difference between hemp and marijuana becomes imperative. Whether you’re a consumer, a policy maker, or just someone curious about the plant, recognizing these distinctions enriches our appreciation of the diverse potentials offered by Cannabis sativa.
