FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS -
HEMP vs CANNABIS
What is the Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis
Here are FAQs that help clarify the common questions about the differences between hemp and cannabis, two terms often confused and misused interchangeably:
FAQs: Understanding Hemp vs. Cannabis
What is hemp?
Hemp refers to varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant that contain very low levels (0.3% or less) of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Due to its low THC content, hemp does not produce psychoactive effects. It is grown for industrial and commercial purposes to produce a wide range of products including textiles, food, paper, body care products, and building materials.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a genus of flowering plants in the Cannabaceae family, which includes several species such as Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. In common usage, especially in the context of marijuana, "cannabis" refers to parts of or products from plants that contain substantial amounts of THC, the compound primarily responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects.
How are hemp and cannabis different?
The main difference lies in their chemical composition, particularly the levels of THC:
- **Hemp:** Contains 0.3% or less THC by dry weight. It does not produce intoxicating effects and is cultivated mainly for industrial and non-drug use.
- **Cannabis (Marijuana):** Typically contains higher concentrations of THC, which can cause psychoactive effects. It is primarily cultivated for medicinal or recreational drug use.
Are hemp and marijuana grown differently?
Yes, the cultivation methods differ significantly:
- **Hemp:** Grown to maximize the size and yield of the plant and its seeds. It is usually grown outdoors, and plants are grown close together as hemp grows tall and skinny.
- **Marijuana:** Grown in carefully controlled environments designed to maximize the plant’s flowering properties to produce buds rich in THC and other cannabinoids. Marijuana plants are often given more space to spread out and are meticulously cared for to optimize the quality of the psychoactive flowers.
Is hemp legal?
The legality of hemp varies by country. In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp federally by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act and designating it as an agricultural commodity. However, not all states have implemented this change, and some restrict the growing and sale of hemp plants.
Is cannabis legal?
The legality of cannabis also varies significantly from one jurisdiction to another. Some countries and states have legalized cannabis for recreational use, while others allow it only for medicinal purposes. Many places still maintain strict prohibition laws against the recreational use of cannabis.
What are the uses of hemp?
Hemp is incredibly versatile and used in thousands of products. These include:
- **Industrial products:** Building materials, bioplastics, and biofuel.
- **Textiles:** Clothing, shoes, and accessories made from hemp fibers.
- **Food:** Hemp seeds and hemp seed oil, which are high in protein and omega fatty acids.
- **Health products:** CBD oil derived from hemp, which is used for its potential health benefits without psychoactive effects.
What are the uses of cannabis?
Cannabis is primarily used for:
- **Recreational use:** To experience euphoria and relaxation.
- **Medicinal purposes:** To treat symptoms like chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety.
- **Spiritual use:** In some cultures, cannabis is used for spiritual rites and rituals.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for legal, cultural, and agricultural contexts, ensuring appropriate usage and compliance with local regulations.