The terms "cannabis" and "hemp" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant with distinct characteristics, uses, and legal definitions. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between cannabis and hemp to help clarify which might be best suited for specific needs. 1. Cannabis and Hemp Defined by THC Content The primary difference between cannabis and hemp is the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with cannabis.
In the United States, hemp is cbd products legal legally defined as cannabis containing 0.3% or less THC on a dry-weight basis. This low THC content means hemp doesn’t produce psychoactive effects. Cannabis, on the other hand, refers to varieties of the plant with higher THC content, typically used for medicinal or recreational purposes due to its psychoactive effects.
