The Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis


Prohibition has spurred a lack of education surrounding the cannabis plant. This has led to countless rumors about what makes hemp different from cannabis. Everything from “hemp plants are male and cannabis plants are female” to “cannabis is a drug and the other is not” are incorrectly being preached as common knowledge to unknowing bystanders.  So, how are these terms supposed to be used? Let’s find out.

According to a 1976 study published by the International Association of Plant Taxonomy concluded “both hemp varieties and marijuana varieties are of the same genus, Cannabis, and the same species, Cannabis Sativa. Further, there are countless varieties that fall into further classifications within the species Cannabis Sativa.”

However, depending on how the plant is grown and utilized will determine which term is correct. For instance, the term cannabis (or marijuana) is used when describing a Cannabis Sativa plant that is bred for its potent, resinous glands (known as trichomes). These trichomes contain high amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid most known for its psychoactive properties.

Hemp, on the hand, is used to describe a Cannabis Sativa plant that contains only trace amounts of THC. Hemp is a high-growing plant, typically bred for industrial uses such as oils and topical ointments, as well as fiber for clothing, construction, and much more.

Only products made from industrial hemp (less than 0.3% THC) are legal to sell, buy, consume, and ship. This single factor (0.3%) is how most people distinguish between what is classified as “hemp” and what is classified as “cannabis.” This limit has led to mass controversy (for good reason), which we will dive into a bit later. But first, let’s take a look at how hemp is utilized all over the world.

More About Hemp: Medical Jane

Limited Debut Release / Sign Up For Early Access

Limited Debut Release / Sign Up For Early Access
The Limited Debut Release Pre-Order is Limited to 710 Space Cannons

Get 15% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ15

Get 15% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ15

Get 15% OFF at Checkout with Code CJ15

Get 15% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ15

CIPHER Electronic and Combustion Vaporizres

CIPHER Electronic and Combustion Vaporizres
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJohns10

UNDURCUVUR Smell-Proof and Break Resistant

UNDURCUVUR Smell-Proof and Break Resistant
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ10

Invincibowl Bowl-Pieces and Down-Stems

Invincibowl Bowl-Pieces and Down-Stems
Get 15% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ15

Build Your Own Bong with Transformer Tubes

Build Your Own Bong with Transformer Tubes
Get 25% OFF at Checkout with Code: HOT25

TastyPuff The Grandaddy of Flavor

TastyPuff The Grandaddy of Flavor
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: Tasty10

Moose Labs MouthPeace and MouthPeace Mini

Moose Labs MouthPeace and MouthPeace Mini
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ10

PURR Glassware - Repairs - Customs - Classes

PURR Glassware - Repairs - Customs - Classes
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: CARVER10

Brain Forest Subscription Boxes and More

Session Goods

Session Goods
Get 10% OFF at Checkout eith Code: CJ10

Leafwize Naturals CBD CBG CBN Delta8

Leafwize Naturals CBD CBG CBN Delta8
Get 10% OFF at Checkout with Code: CJ10

Shine 24k Gold Rolling Papers