Hemp VS Cannabis

Hemp and cannabis are both types of plants that belong to the species Cannabis sativa, but they differ in their chemical composition, usage, and legal status. Here's a detailed comparison:

1. Chemical Composition

• Hemp: Contains very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that produces a "high." Legally, hemp must contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight in most countries, including the U.S.
• Cannabis (Marijuana): Typically contains higher levels of THC, often ranging from 5% to 30%, depending on the strain. It also contains other cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol), though the ratio varies.

2. Usage

• Hemp:
  • Industrial: Used for making textiles, rope, paper, biodegradable plastics, and building materials.
  • Food and Wellness: Produces hemp seeds (used for food and oil) and CBD products (non-intoxicating).
• Cannabis:
  • Primarily used for medicinal or recreational purposes due to its psychoactive properties.
  • Provides therapeutic benefits for pain relief, anxiety, and other medical conditions, primarily through THC and CBD.

3. Appearance

• Hemp: Grows tall and thin, often reaching heights of up to 20 feet, with sparse foliage.
• Cannabis: Generally shorter and bushier, with more branches and denser flowering buds.

4. Legal Status

• Hemp: Legal in many countries for industrial and medicinal purposes as long as it meets THC limits. For example, the U.S. legalized hemp cultivation through the 2018 Farm Bill.
• Cannabis: The legality of cannabis varies widely. Some countries and U.S. states allow its use for medicinal or recreational purposes, while others still prohibit it entirely.

5. Cultivation

• Hemp: Easier and faster to grow, with minimal maintenance. Often cultivated outdoors in large fields.
• Cannabis: Requires controlled environments to maximize THC and cannabinoid production, often grown indoors or in greenhouses.

Summary

The primary distinction lies in THC content and intended use. Hemp is a non-intoxicating variety of Cannabis sativa used for industrial and wellness purposes, while cannabis (or marijuana) is grown for its psychoactive and medicinal properties.