Botanical Classification:

• Hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. They share the same species but are cultivated and used for different purposes.

Chemical Composition:

• Hemp: Contains a high concentration of CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound, and very low levels of the psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), classified by law as less than 0.3%.
• Marijuana: Contains higher levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces the “high,” with concentrations typically ranging from 5% to 30%. It typically also contains varying levels of CBD.

Uses:

• Hemp: Primarily grown for industrial and commercial products. It can be used to produce textiles, clothing, paper, biofuel, biodegradable plastics, and health foods. Hemp seeds are nutritious and are used in food products. Hemp is also used for consumable products and is regulated in Texas by the Department of State Health Services. These products contain less than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC by dry weight (products like this are sold at licensed retailers like RESTART!)
• Marijuana: Cultivated mainly for recreational and medicinal purposes due to its high THC content. It can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. These products are only available in legal states and cannot be shipped or brought across state lines.

Cultivation:

• Hemp: Grows quickly and can reach heights of 15 feet or more. It requires minimal care and is adaptable to a variety of climates and soils. Hemp plants are typically grown closely together.
• Marijuana: Requires careful cultivation with controlled environmental conditions to optimize THC levels. Plants are usually spaced further apart and require more attention to light, temperature, and humidity.

Legal Status:

• Hemp: Legal in many countries, including the United States, where the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp production and removed it from the list of controlled substances, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC.
• Marijuana: Its legality varies widely. It is fully legal in some places, decriminalized in others, and still illegal in many parts of the world. In the United States, marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level, though many states have legalized it for medicinal and/or recreational use.

Economic Impact:

• Hemp: Offers a wide range of applications across various industries, leading to significant economic benefits. Its versatility makes it a valuable crop for farmers and manufacturers. The Hemp Industry has offered more jobs and wide-spread adaptations outside the dispensary model, creating an education platform for the canna-curious.
• Marijuana: Generates substantial revenue through the medical and recreational markets. It also creates jobs and tax revenue in regions where it is legalized.

Health and Safety:

• Hemp: Non-psychoactive and generally considered safe for consumption and use. While CBD products derived from hemp are popular for their potential health benefits without intoxicating effects. Hemp has also allowed for micro and low dosing of THC with products varying from Delta-9 THC,  Delta-8 THC, and more.
• Marijuana: While it has therapeutic benefits, its psychoactive properties can impair cognitive and motor functions. Responsible use is important to avoid negative health effects.

Understanding the differences between hemp and marijuana is crucial for making informed choices about their uses and benefits. Whether you’re looking for natural health products, sustainable materials, or simply expanding your knowledge, it’s clear that hemp and marijuana each play unique roles in our lives. Share this information with a friend to spread awareness, and explore our wide range of high-quality hemp-derived products designed to enhance your well-being and have a little fun.

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