Hemp vs. Cannabis vs. Marijuana: Is There Really a Difference?
Cannabis vs. Hemp vs. Marijuana: Understanding the Basics
Cannabis is a plant in the botanical family Cannabaceae, encompassing what we know as both hemp and marijuana. While society often divides these into distinct categories, the truth is, they are all cannabis. Traditionally, industrial uses such as rope, clothing, and plastic have been associated with hemp, while consumption and wellness have been linked to cannabis or marijuana. This distinction, however, is more a product of societal conditioning than a biological fact.
Let’s dive deeper into the differences or lack thereof between hemp, cannabis, and marijuana.
What Is Industrial Hemp?
Industrial hemp refers to cannabis plants containing less than 0.2% THC (UK) or 0.3% THC (USA). These plants are typically bred for industrial or wellness purposes and are primarily male or a mix of male and female. While hemp does not produce significant THC levels, it can contain small amounts of CBD, especially in the leaves and flowers.
- CBD Content: Most industrial hemp varieties produce around 3.5% CBD, while high-CBD cannabis plants can contain upwards of 15-20%.
- Uses: Hemp is cultivated for clothing, paper, biofuel, rope, and even health food. Its seeds and oils are also popular wellness products.
Despite its lower cannabinoid content, hemp remains the primary source of CBD for wellness products due to the easier licensing requirements compared to cannabis.
Does the Source of CBD Matter?
CBD from hemp and high-CBD cannabis plants can be equally effective, provided the extraction method is safe and preserves the plant’s beneficial compounds. Common extraction methods include:
- CO2 Supercritical Extraction: The gold standard, ensuring no toxic residues.
- Alcohol or Oil Extraction: Simple and effective for small-scale extractions.
The key is ensuring high-quality CBD without harmful contaminants, regardless of the source.
The Word “Marijuana”: Origins and Controversy
The term “marijuana” originates from the Spanish word marihuana and entered the English lexicon in the late 19th century. Its use surged in the 1930s during prohibition, often used to stigmatize cannabis with an exotic-sounding name. Over time, the term became associated with countercultures, such as the hippie movement of the 1960s, and with the stoner comedy genre in films like Up in Smoke (1978).
Today, some view “marijuana” as outdated or even offensive, preferring “cannabis” as a more accurate and inclusive term.
So, Is Hemp vs. Cannabis vs. Marijuana a Thing?
In essence, no. Hemp, cannabis, and marijuana are all cannabis. The distinctions between them are largely regulatory and cultural rather than scientific.
- Hemp: Low-THC cannabis used for industrial and wellness purposes.
- Cannabis: The overarching term for the plant, encompassing all varieties.
- Marijuana: A historically loaded term often referring to cannabis with higher THC levels.
Why Understanding This Matters
Recognising that hemp, cannabis, and marijuana are all forms of cannabis can help break down stigmas and misinformation. It encourages us to question outdated laws and embrace the full potential of this versatile plant.
Whether you support cannabis for industrial, medical, or recreational use, one fact remains: Cannabis is cannabis.
Resources
- The CBD Bible by Dr. Dani Gordon
- The Rebel’s Apothecary by Jenny Sansouci
- Wikipedia
Read more in The Apothecary Archives, our trust bank of resources.
Please Note
- Keep CBD products out of reach of children.
- This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- Always consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Purchase with The Strange Apothecary and plant a tree with every order.
