Gordon Lab

Marijuana

Is Hemp And Marijuanas The Same Plant 

Hemp and marijuana are both members of the cannabis plant family and share many similarities, leading to confusion about whether they are the same plant. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between hemp and marijuana, including their chemical composition, uses, and legal status.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant that is specifically cultivated for industrial purposes. Hemp plants are typically taller and skinnier than marijuana plants, with thinner leaves and fewer branches. Hemp contains low levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a “high” in marijuana, and higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD), another cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits.

Uses of Hemp:

Hemp has a variety of uses, including:

  1. Fiber: Hemp fiber can be used to make textiles, paper, and building materials.
  2. Food: Hemp seeds can be used as a source of nutrition, as they are rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and fiber.
  3. Supplements: Hemp oil supplements are available in capsule or liquid form and may provide nutritional benefits due to their high levels of essential fatty acids.
  4. CBD products: Hemp is often used to produce CBD oil and other CBD products, which may have potential therapeutic benefits.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana is a variety of the cannabis plant that is specifically cultivated for its psychoactive effects. Marijuana plants are typically shorter and bushier than hemp plants, with broader leaves and more branches. Marijuana contains higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD than hemp.

Uses of Marijuana:

Marijuana has a variety of uses, including:

  1. Recreational use: Marijuana is often used for its psychoactive effects, including relaxation and euphoria.
  2. Medicinal use: Marijuana is used as a treatment for a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety. Medical marijuana is legal in many countries and states, but requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Is Hemp the Same as Marijuana?

No, hemp and marijuana are not the same plant. While they are both members of the cannabis plant family, they are cultivated for different purposes and have different chemical compositions. Hemp contains low levels of THC and higher levels of CBD, while marijuana contains higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD.

Legal Status of Hemp and Marijuana:

The legal status of hemp and marijuana can vary depending on the country and state in which they are grown and used. In the United States, hemp cultivation and use for industrial purposes is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Marijuana, on the other hand, is still illegal under federal law, although it may be legal for medicinal or recreational use in some states.

Conclusion:

Hemp and marijuana are both members of the cannabis plant family, but they are cultivated for different purposes and have different chemical compositions. Hemp is used for industrial purposes and contains low levels of THC and higher levels of CBD, while marijuana is used for its psychoactive effects and contains higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD. The legal status of hemp and marijuana varies depending on the country and state in which they are grown and used. When choosing hemp or marijuana products, it is important to consider the specific needs and legal status of the individual, as well as the quality and safety of the product.

References and Further Reading

  1. Callaway, J. C. (2004). Hempseed as a nutritional resource: An overview. Euphytica, 140(1-2), 65-72. doi:10.1007/s10681-004-4811-6
  2. Conrad, C., & Potter, D. (2020). Hemp vs marijuana: The difference explained. Leafly. Retrieved from https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/hemp-vs-marijuana-difference
  3. ElSohly, M. A. (2016). Chemical constituents of marijuana: The complex mixture of natural cannabinoids. Life Sciences, 78(5), 539-548. doi:10.1016/j.lfs.2005.09.011
  4. Kight, R. (2019). The 2018 farm bill: What you need to know. Hoban Law Group. Retrieved from https://hoban.law/2018/12/2018-farm-bill-need-know/
  5. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Marijuana as medicine. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-medicine
  6. United States Department of Agriculture. (2019). Hemp production program. Retrieved from https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/hemp