Hemp vs. Cannabis: What’s the Real Difference?
Sisters.News
Your Weekly Dose of Cannabis Education 🌿
🗣️ "You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take."
— Wayne Gretzky
Hemp vs. Cannabis: What’s the Real Difference? 🌾
You’ve seen “hemp-derived” products and “cannabis-infused” ones—but are they actually different? The short answer: hemp and cannabis come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa, but differ in their chemical makeup and how they’re regulated.
🌱 What Is Hemp?
Hemp plants contain 0.3% THC or less by dry weight, meaning they won’t get you high. They’re grown primarily for CBD extraction, fiber, seeds, and wellness products.
Common hemp uses include:
- CBD oils, tinctures, and gummies
- Textiles and paper
- Protein powders and food products
- Eco-friendly building materials
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is federally legal in the U.S., though states still regulate how it’s processed and sold.
🍃 What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis (often called marijuana) refers to plants with more than 0.3% THC—the psychoactive compound that causes a high. These plants are cultivated for medical and recreational use, offering a broader spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes for various effects.
Typical cannabis uses include:
- Pain and stress relief
- Sleep support and relaxation
- Creative and mood-enhancing experiences
⚖️ Why the Distinction Matters
The key difference is THC content and legality. Hemp = low THC, federally legal. Cannabis = higher THC, regulated by state law. Both, however, share therapeutic cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBC—so they’re more alike than they seem.
Try It Yourself!
Stop by Amsterdam Coffee Club for hemp-based CBD drinks and gummies, or visit Sativa Sisters for THC-rich cannabis products curated for your desired effects.
Next Week: How Long Do Cannabis Effects Really Last? ⏳
Ever wondered why edibles seem to last forever while vaping fades fast? Next week, we’ll explain how consumption methods change the onset, duration, and strength of your cannabis experience.
