Marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC. You’ve probably seen all of these words but you might be confused about how they differ. For example, in some states, marijuana is illegal, but CBD oil is readily advertised. So how do all of these substances relate to each other? THC is the key element in cannabis plants that can make you high. And the differences between the other variations often refer to differences in THC levels. For example, hemp has a lower THC content than marijuana. And CBD is another element in cannabis, but one that does not have psychoactive effects. Hopefully, the below article will give you a better understanding of these different substances.
Marijuana, Hemp, CBD, and THC: What’s the Difference?
THC
Marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC are all parts of the Cannabis Sativa plant. THC is a naturally occurring substance you find in the plant that has psychoactive qualities that can make you feel high. You can feel these by smoking or in other forms. For example, oils and edibles. In some states, the legality of cannabis-related substances is based on the amount of THC in them. Before buying or using any products with THC you should be familiar with your state’s laws.
Marijuana
Marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC all differ but are sometimes all referred to as marijuana. This is incorrect though. Marijuana is a specific form of the cannabis plant that has a level of THC that is greater than 0.3% of its dry weight. Plainly speaking, marijuana has enough THC that it will cause a high. There are some variations of marijuana that people grow to specifically have higher levels of THC.
Hemp
While marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC are all used somewhat interchangeably, hemp is actually quite different. Hemp is cannabis that contains less than 0.3% of THC of its dry weight. Hemp does not contain enough THC to create a feeling of being high. However, it is a very useful plant for creating textiles. For example, clothes and paper can be made of hemp and are considered to be more sustainable than other manufactured versions.
CBD
One final confusing aspect of the marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC debate is that CBD is a hot product on the market at the moment. Even in states where marijuana and THC use are illegal, CBD is everywhere. Some people consider it a miracle worker for the body to cure aches and pains, anxiety, and more. There are CBD spa treatments and infusions, CBD food products, lotions, and oils. CBD is another naturally occurring chemical compound in the cannabis Sativa plant. However, as opposed to THC, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive qualities. So it won’t get you high. And it’s still somewhat questionable just how effective it actually is as a pain and stress reliever.
Although you might have heard them used almost interchangeably, marijuana, hemp, CBD, and THC are not all the same substances. In fact, they can have vastly different effects on the body. Most of the differences between these categories rely on the amount of THC in them. Different states have different rules regarding each of these substances. So if you are planning to purchase or use any of them, it’s important to be aware of your state’s rules.