No doubt, of late, both hemp and marijuana have risen to mainstream use due to their purported health, wellness, and recreational benefits. However, the terms are often used together, and there seems to be confusion among the population concerning the differences if there are any.
It is paramount to note that there are significant differences between hemp and marijuana even if they are from the same cannabis plant. Understanding hemp vs marijuana will help you navigate both the health and legal aspects of the cannabis market. In the article, we shall cover all aspects of hemp vs marijuana.
These include the definitions, uses, benefits, side effects, legality, and so on. Read on.
What is Hemp?
Hemp is one of the cannabis varieties that contain less than 0.3% content of delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by dry weight. This definition is in line with the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, better known as the Farm Bill. Due to the presence of minimal THC levels in hemp, the substance has minimal to no psychoactive properties. In other words, it does not have a significant impact on the cognitive functions of the brain among its users.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana refers to the numerous varieties of the cannabis plant that have a THC content that exceeds 0.3%. Some popular terms used to describe these varieties include weed, bud, pot, green, grass, and ganja. There are numerous strains of marijuana, and these differ in terms of THC content, scents, effects, and tastes. Marijuana is intoxicating because of the high levels of THC levels present in it. As a result, the substance is mainly used for recreational purposes rather than industrial ones.
Uses of Hemp
Hemp is a highly versatile substance. It has numerous health, wellness, and industrial uses. From hemp, we derive CBD, a substance that is infused in mainstream food products and has health and wellness benefits. CBD is an effective substance for the treatment and management of several medical conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, depression, acne, epilepsy, heart health, and so on.
Hemp fibers are full of cellulose. Therefore, they are also used in the manufacture of textiles such as clothing and rope. It is worth noting that hemp clothing is impressively soft, making it a good alternative to cotton. The substance is also used to manufacture paper, bioplastic, and bio concrete. Hemp is also useful for its nutritional value. The seeds feature both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, as well as full amino acid profiles.
Uses of Marijuana
Unlike hemp, the uses of marijuana are limited. This is because the substance is strictly regulated by government laws. Marijuana can be used for recreational purposes by smoking or eating it to get high. It can also serve medical purposes. It is paramount to first familiarize yourself with the regulatory environment before the use of the substance.
Benefits of Hemp
Hemp has several benefits. The substance has a low THC content. Therefore, it is not as psychoactive as marijuana. People can use the substance without triggering the ‘high feeling’ that is commonly associated with marijuana users. Hemp is used to extracting CBD, a substance that is renowned for its health and wellness benefits that include treating and managing anxiety, depression, acne, cardiovascular issues, epilepsy, and so on.
Benefits of Marijuana
Marijuana mainly has recreational benefits. This is due to its high THC content. It gives users the much-needed feeling of calmness and relaxation. The substance also carries some medicinal benefits. However, for getting access to it, the patient should have a qualifying condition and the doctor’s recommendation.
Side Effects of Hemp
The side effects that one can experience with the use of hemp include loss of appetite, dry mouth, nausea, diarrhea, and so on.
Side Effects of Marijuana
Marijuana also has its own set of side effects, and these depend on the dosages that one would have taken. Marijuana users can face some of the most common side effects like hallucinating, slow reaction time, and addiction.
Legality of Hemp
In the United States, the legality of hemp is governed by the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, better known as the Farm Bill. The bill removed the substance from the Controlled Substances Act. In other words, it permitted legal cultivation of the plant at the federal level, but according to a strict set of guidelines.
However, there are still some states that are still in the process of synchronizing their regulations concerning hemp so that they fall in tandem with federal guidelines. Therefore, it is best to familiarize yourself with the local hemp laws applicable in your area.
Legality of Marijuana
At the federal level, marijuana is legal according to the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. However, state regulations are slowly changing over time. At this point, some states now allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes provided the individuals have a physician’s recommendation and a qualifying condition.
Therefore, just as is the case with hemp, it is also paramount to be familiar with the guidelines regulating the use of marijuana in your local area. This will help you to avoid falling out of line with the effective rules and laws.
Final Thoughts
No doubt, over the years, there has been a significant level of interest in hemp vs marijuana: differences. This has been made evident by the research interests and legislative efforts that have been directed toward the two. It is paramount that you understand how this differs in terms of definitions, uses, side effects, legality, and so on.
Such knowledge will help you navigate the health and legal aspects involved in the cannabis market. Lastly, it is important to highlight that it is advised to consult an expert whenever you are not sure about any aspect concerning these two substances. We are hoping this hemp vs marijuana content was useful for you.
