Have you ever used hemp & cannabis interchangeably? If yes, you’re not alone. Most of us are guilty of that. As people are turning to cannabis & hemp-derived products for multiple concerns, it has become common to use the terms "hemp" and "cannabis" interchangeably. However, they are not synonymous. Despite their common lineage, hemp and cannabis differ significantly in their chemical composition and uses.
In this write-up, we will elaborate on both and understand their similarities, differences and unique features. Keep reading.
What Are Hemp and Cannabis?
At the most basic level, both hemp and cannabis belong to the same plant species: Cannabis sativa. However, their similarities largely end there.
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant known for its industrial applications. It has been cultivated for centuries for its durable fibers and nutrient-rich seeds. Hemp is non-intoxicating, which means it doesn’t leave you with the high that cannabis does.
On the other hand, cannabis, commonly referred to as marijuana, refers to the strains of the Cannabis sativa plant that contain higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that creates the characteristic "high" when consumed.
Key Differences in Chemical Composition
The most significant difference between hemp and cannabis lies in their chemical makeup, particularly in the levels of THC and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC Content: THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. In cannabis (or marijuana), THC levels are typically much higher, often exceeding 10%, which is responsible for its mind-altering effects. Hemp, on the other hand, legally contains less than 0.3% THC, an amount so minimal it cannot produce intoxicating effects.
CBD Content: CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has been researched for its potential therapeutic properties. While both hemp and cannabis contain CBD, hemp is naturally richer in this compound. Cannabis strains, depending on their variety, may have varying levels of CBD, though often less than that found in hemp.
Uses of Hemp vs. Cannabis
Hemp and cannabis serve distinct purposes, largely due to their chemical composition.
Hemp: This versatile plant is used in a wide range of industries. Its fibers are used for making textiles, ropes, paper, and even biodegradable plastics. Hemp seeds are also used in food products, offering a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. Additionally, hemp is the source of many CBD products, including oils, tinctures, and skincare products, given its high concentration of this cannabinoid.
Cannabis: Cannabis is primarily known for its recreational and medicinal uses. Medicinal cannabis is employed to treat conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and more, thanks to its cannabinoids' interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Recreational cannabis is consumed for its psychoactive effects, enjoyed by users seeking relaxation or euphoria in places where it is legal.
Misconceptions About Hemp and Cannabis
Given the close relationship between hemp and cannabis, there are many misconceptions about what these plants can and cannot do.
"Hemp Can Get You High": One of the most persistent myths is that hemp can cause intoxicating effects. This is false. Hemp contains only trace amounts of THC, making it impossible to get high from its consumption.
"CBD Only Comes From Cannabis": Another common misconception is that CBD only comes from cannabis. In reality, CBD is abundantly found in hemp. In fact, most commercially available CBD products are derived from hemp, not cannabis.
Conclusion
Although they share a common lineage, hemp and cannabis are very different plants with distinct chemical compositions, legal statuses, and uses. Hemp is a versatile, non-intoxicating plant used across industries from textiles to wellness products, while cannabis is primarily cultivated for its recreational and medicinal benefits due to its higher THC content.
Understanding these differences is essential, especially as both hemp and cannabis continue to gain attention in industries ranging from wellness to agriculture. Whether you're exploring the therapeutic potential of CBD or the broader environmental benefits of hemp, knowing the facts about these plants can help you make more informed decisions.