Hemp and marijuana are often mistaken for each other or considered to be one due to their close similarities, but they are two different varieties of cannabis plants. However, there are some differences between the two plants that set them apart. In this article, we will talk about the difference between hemp, marijuana, and CBD.
First, let’s talk about the similarities. Both hemp and marijuana are part of the cannabis family. They both contain compounds called cannabinoids, which are responsible for their medicinal and psychoactive effects.
Now, for the differences between hemp vs. marijuana.
THC content
The most significant difference between hemp and marijuana is the level of THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. For a plant to be considered hemp, the cannabis plant must contain less than 0.3% THC. On the other hand, marijuana plants typically contain anywhere from 5-35% THC. This means that marijuana will produce a “high” or euphoric effect, while hemp will not.
Appearance
Another difference between these two is in the appearance of the plant. Hemp plants are generally taller, with thin and long leaves. They are also grown close together because they are usually grown for industrial purposes. On the other hand, marijuana plants are shorter and bushier, with wider leaves. They have grown farther apart so that each plant can get enough light to produce high THC content.
Legality status
In terms of legal status, hemp is legal to grow and use in the United States, while marijuana is still considered a controlled substance. This is because of the significant difference in THC content between the two plants. Hemp is also widely used in food and health supplements, while marijuana is mostly used for recreational and medicinal purposes.
Medical Properties
Hemp and marijuana also have different medicinal properties. Both plants contain CBD, a non-psychoactive compound that has been found to have medicinal properties such as reducing seizures and pain. However, marijuana also contains THC, which has been found to be effective in treating conditions such as glaucoma, nausea, and pain associated with certain medical conditions.
CBD
Cannabidiol or more commonly known as CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. This has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. Unlike its more well-known cousin, THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t give the user a “high.” Instead, it’s believed to have a variety of therapeutic effects on the body and mind.
Anxiety and depression
One of the benefits that enticed the mass is its ability to reduce anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and possibly some other conditions. It is believed that CBD helps regulate mood by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoids.
Pain
CBD is also being studied for its potential to help manage pain. Studies have found that CBD can help reduce chronic pain, inflammation, and discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Medical experts believe that this is because of the anti-inflammatory properties CBD has.
Sleep disorders
Another potential CBD shows its promising capability to help with insomnia and other sleep disorders. Studies show that CBD can help improve the quality of sleep by making the user’s sleep deeper and reducing the number of night awakenings. It’s thought that CBD’s ability to reduce anxiety and pain may be one of the factors responsible for this effect.
We all know that marijuana has a negative connotation in it, but we should not let the negative image of marijuana impede and hinder the advances possible in science. Everything has side effects, so it is very important to stick with the prescription and follow the advice of the experts.
