Hemp vs. Marijuana: What's the Difference?

Did you know that in 2021 there were over 52 million people who tried cannabis products? With cannabis becoming so popular, you might not know where to start.

If you are new to the world of cannabis, you probably don't know much about the difference between hemp and marijuana. While they both come from the cannabis plant, there are some significant differences between both them. This article will provide a quick and informative guide to hemp vs. marijuana.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a strain of the cannabis plant that grows for industrial use. It is a tall, fibrous plant that people have used for thousands of years for its strong fibers.

It can make paper, textiles, and even building materials. Hemp is also rich in cannabidiol (CBD), which is a non-psychoactive compound that is believed to have a range of health benefits.

Hemp Products

Hemp can make a wide range of products, including clothing, paper, rope, and even biofuels. It is also commonly used to make CBD products, which are becoming increasingly popular for their potential health benefits. CBD oil, for example, comes from hemp extract and can help with anxiety, pain, and inflammation.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana is a strain of the cannabis plant that is grown for its psychoactive effects on humans. It contains high amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

This is the compound that is responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use. Marijuana has been around for recreational and medicinal purposes for thousands of years all over the world.

Marijuana Products

Marijuana is most commonly consumed by smoking the plant's dried flowers, but it can also be consumed in lots of other forms too. Some people use marijuana for its medicinal and healing properties, which are believed to include pain relief, anxiety reduction, and appetite stimulation.

CBD Products

While CBD is in both hemp and marijuana, it is usually derived from hemp because it contains higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC. CBD products made from hemp are legal in most states, as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC.

Hemp and marijuana are typically consumed in different ways. Hemp products are usually ingested or applied topically, while marijuana is usually smoked.

Hemp Products

Hemp products can be used or ingested in several different ways. Here are some of the most popular forms below that people use.

CBD oil

Hemp-derived CBD oil is the most popular way to consume CBD. It is usually taken sublingually, which is under the tongue or added to food or drinks. It can be great in your morning tea to get relaxed all day.

Capsules

Hemp capsules contain CBD oil in a convenient, pre-measured form. This way you don't have to worry about prep, but you can still feel the effects you want.

Edibles

Hemp edibles, such as gummies or chocolates, are a tasty way to consume CBD. This is an option for both CBD to THC.

Topicals

Hemp topicals, such as creams or balms, are applied directly to the skin. These are commonly used for pain relief or skin conditions. They can be really easy to use and should be stored in a cool place.

Marijuana Products

Marijuana is most commonly consumed by smoking the dried flowers of the plant, which you can do using many devices. It can also be consumed in other forms including:

Edibles

Marijuana edibles, such as brownies or gummies, are a popular way to consume marijuana without smoking it. For many, this is a fun way to get high.

Tinctures

Marijuana tinctures are concentrated liquids that you can take orally, usually by placing drops under the tongue.

Vaporizers

Vaporizers heat the marijuana plant material or oil to a temperature that vaporizes the active ingredients, which are then inhaled.

It's worth noting that while smoking is the most common way to consume marijuana, it isn't the healthiest. Smoke from any plant material, including marijuana, contains harmful chemicals that could damage the lungs. Vaporizers are a healthier alternative to smoking, as they produce vapor rather than smoke.

Legal Differences

One of the most significant differences between hemp and marijuana is its legal status. While hemp is legal at the federal level in the United States, marijuana is still illegal under US federal law. Hemp became legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which means that hemp products, including CBD oil, are legal in all 50 states as long as they meet this THC threshold.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is still classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it is considered to have no medical value and a high potential for abuse. However, several states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use, despite federal prohibition.

As of February 2023, 36 states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana, while 17 states have legalized recreational marijuana. It is important to familiarize yourself with the laws in your state before using or possessing marijuana.

Decide Between Hemp vs Marijuana Today

If you are wondering whether to try hemp vs marijuana, this guide should help you decide where to start. Hemp and marijuana are both strains of the cannabis plant, but they have different uses and properties. If you are looking for a relaxing feeling, but don't want to get the head change, CBD is the right choice for you.

If you are looking for a reputable company that can provide you with the products you want, contact Montkush for all of your cannabis needs.