Hemp vs. Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for industrial and medicinal use. It contains very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, typically less than 0.3%. Due to its low THC content, hemp does not produce the "high" associated with cannabis.

What is Hemp Used For?

• Textiles and clothing
• Paper products
• Biofuel and bioplastics
• Construction materials like hempcrete
• Nutritional products, such as hemp seeds and oil
• CBD oil for wellness and medicinal purposes

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis refers to a group of three plants with psychoactive properties: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Unlike hemp, cannabis plants are cultivated for their high THC content, which can range from 5% to 30% or more. Cannabis is primarily used for recreational and medicinal purposes, offering a variety of effects and benefits depending on the strain and consumption method.

What is Cannabis Used For?

• Recreational use for its psychoactive effects
• Medicinal purposes, including pain relief and anxiety reduction
• Production of edibles, tinctures, and concentrates
• Topical applications for skin conditions
• Research into potential therapeutic benefits for various health conditions

What are the Differences Between Cannabis and Hemp?

While hemp and cannabis come from the same plant species, they have distinct differences that set them apart.

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Potency 

Hemp contains very low levels of THC (less than 0.3%), whereas cannabis can have THC levels ranging from 5% to 30% or more. This makes cannabis psychoactive, while hemp is not.

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Legality

Hemp is legal in many countries, including the United States, where it was legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill. Cannabis legality varies widely, with some places allowing medical and recreational use, while others prohibit it entirely.

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Cultivation

Hemp and cannabis are often grown differently to optimize their unique characteristics. Hemp is typically grown outdoors in large fields and can thrive in various climates, focusing on maximizing stalk and seed production. In contrast, cannabis is usually cultivated in controlled indoor environments to optimize THC levels and ensure high-quality buds.

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Uses

Hemp vs. Cannabis: Physical Characteristics 

Hemp and cannabis plants have distinct physical characteristics. Hemp plants are typically taller and thinner, reaching heights of up to 15 feet, with long, sturdy stalks and fewer branches. In contrast, cannabis plants are usually shorter and bushier, with dense foliage and a higher concentration of flowers. The leaves of hemp are generally narrower and more elongated, while cannabis leaves are broader and more serrated. These physical differences are a result of their distinct cultivation purposes and genetic variations.

Wrapping Up the Differences Between Hemp vs. Cannabis

While both originate from the Cannabis sativa species, hemp is primarily valued for its industrial applications and low THC content, making it non-psychoactive and widely legal. Cannabis, on the other hand, is cultivated for its higher THC levels, offering psychoactive effects and diverse medicinal benefits, though its legality varies by region. By recognizing these distinctions, consumers and cultivators can better appreciate the unique roles each plays in various industries and lifestyles.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Differences Between Hemp & Cannabis

{
  "name": "acf/faqs",
  "attributes": {
    "name": "acf/faqs",
    "data": {
      "questions_0_question": "Can You Smoke the Flower of a Hemp Plant?",
      "_questions_0_question": "field_632ae305336793",
      "questions_0_answer": "Yes, you can smoke the flower of a hemp plant, however you won't feel any intoxicating effects as opposed to its cannabis counterpart.",
      "_questions_0_answer": "field_632ae30d3367a3",
      "questions_1_question": "Does Hemp Get You High?",
      "_questions_1_question": "field_632ae305336793",
      "questions_1_answer": "No, hemp will not get you high or feel intoxicating due to its low THC content, typically less than 0.3%.",
      "_questions_1_answer": "field_632ae30d3367a3",
      "questions_2_question": "Does Hemp Grow Buds?",
      "_questions_2_question": "field_632ae305336793",
      "questions_2_answer": "Yes, hemp plants do grow buds, but they contain very low levels of THC compared to cannabis buds.",
      "_questions_2_answer": "field_632ae30d3367a3",
      "questions": 3,
      "_questions": "field_632ae2f6336783"
    },
    "mode": "preview"
  },
  "innerBlocks": []
}

Find Cannabis Products at Zen Leaf

Whether you're new to cannabis or a seasoned user, Zen Leaf offers a range of quality cannabis options for you to choose from. Between edibles, concentrates, flower, and more, we've got you covered!