Key Differences Between Hemp Flower and Marijuana

1. Key Differences Between Hemp Flower and Marijuana Despite the fact that the terms “hemp” and “marijuana” have been used interchangeably over the last few decades, the two are not the same thing. While they do belong to the same family of plants, there are a number of key differences between the two. They Look Different One of the most obvious differences to the trained eye is that hemp and marijuana plants look different. Marijuana tends towards having broader leaves and denser buds. This gives marijuana plants a short, bush-like appearance. Hemp, on the other hand, tends to have skinny leaves towards the top of the plant. Hemp buds are not usually as dense as those found on marijuana. While many may not be able to tell the difference off hand, it becomes obvious when the two plants are placed beside one another. A direct comparison shows distinct and obvious differences. THC and CBD One of the biggest differences between hemp and marijuana are in their compositions. Marijuana generally has significant concentrations of both THC and CBD. Hemp flowers are usually very low in THC, but comparatively high in CBD. The reason this makes such a drastic difference is that THC is the chemical compound responsible for getting recreational pot smokers “high.” With little THC and high CBD, there are none of the associated side effects of being “stoned” like having the munchies, anxiety, or altered perception of any kind. Usage Another key difference is in the way that these plants are used. Marijuana tends to be used for recreational purposes, although sometimes it is used for medicinal purposes also. Marijuana can be smoked, vaped, inhaled, or cooked into foods, among others. People who use this plant often get “high” or have an otherwise altered perception of self and the world. Hemp is primarily used for industrial purposes, although hemp flowers can be consumed in the same way as marijuana. Hemp is versatile in that it can be made into paper, clothing, and a great number of other items. The most popular use currently is the use of hemp in making CBD products (like oils) that have little to no THC composition. Legality Perhaps the largest difference are the legal statuses between marijuana and hemp. Due to the fact that it has high concentrations of THC, marijuana plants are not legal in all states. Some states (like Colorado) have legalized marijuana for both recreational and medicinal purposes, while other states have only legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes. Hemp, however, is legal in all 50 states as long as it has a THC concentration of .03% or less. It can be used recreationally, medicinally, or industrially as long as it is grown according to current laws and regulations.

2. Conclusion As you can see, there are several distinct differences between hemp and marijuana plants. Foremost among these are their CBD/THC compositions, legality, appearance, and how the plants are typically used. For most people, it is obvious that hemp flowers are superior – if for no other reason than that they have more uses and is fully legalized.