I would argue that a lot of people associate marijuana with hemp, and vice versa. It’s probable that those of us who aren’t familiar with the differences between these two plants also group them together in the same category, despite the fact that they’re entirely different from each other.
“Following the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and marijuana are classified as two different substances under the Control Substance Act. That’s because the effects of hemp vs marijuana are very different. This contrast is thanks to how marijuana and hemp affect a network inside of our body, known as the endocannabinoid system,” an article originally published on Made By Hemp’s website explains.
The article goes on to explain how “marijuana and hemp are both species of the Cannabaceae genus,” meaning they come from the same family. Hemp plants grow within close proximity to one another, have durable, fibrous stalks, and are able to flourish in a variety of different climates. Marijuana plants, on the other hand, require a warm climate and space to grow.
In addition to their differences when it comes to growing conditions, hemp and marijuana also interact with our endocannabinoid system differently. The article states how hemp is beneficial for the human body as the “plant is a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids. Hemp effects also include antioxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits. This wide range of qualities is why CBD oil is popping up in everything from beauty lines to supplements to skin care.
“Additional research confirms many of the benefits of hemp effects can also be achieved to some degree by marijuana as well. However, there’s one significant difference between how hemp affects the endocannabinoid system vs how marijuana affects it. This primary contrast is that marijuana triggers a psychoactive effect on the endocannabinoid system.”
The article linked above contains a multitude of information regarding the differences between hemp and marijuana. Check it out if you’re interested in learning more.
Image from https://madebyhemp.com/hemp-vs-marijuana-whats-the-difference/