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When it comes to the world of cannabis, it’s easy to get confused by the differences between hemp strains and marijuana strains. Despite being derived from the same plant species (Cannabis sativa), the two plants have distinct differences that set them apart. It is important to understand these differences, as they have significant legal and practical implications. Best hemp strains are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their numerous benefits.
Chemical Composition
One of the most significant differences between hemp and marijuana strains is their chemical composition. Hemp strains contain less than 0.3% THC, the compound that is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. On the other hand, marijuana strains can contain THC levels ranging from 15% to as high as 30%. The higher THC content in marijuana strains makes them popular among recreational users.
Cultivation and Growth
Hemp strains are grown primarily for industrial purposes and are often grown in large fields. These plants are usually grown close together, with little room for each plant to grow individually. This is because the primary goal of growing hemp is to produce a large volume of the plant for industrial uses rather than for its flowers or resin.
In contrast, marijuana strains are grown in smaller, more controlled environments and are usually grown in greenhouses or indoor facilities. This allows growers to manipulate the growing conditions to produce specific effects and desired strains. For example, growers can control lighting, temperature, and humidity to produce higher THC or CBD strains.
Legal Status
One of the most significant differences between hemp strains and marijuana strains is their legal status. Hemp was made legal in the United States in 2018 with the passage of the Farm Bill, which removed hemp from the list of controlled substances and made it legal to grow, sell, and use hemp and its derivatives, including CBD oil. This change in the law has made hemp a popular crop for farmers and manufacturers who use hemp to produce a wide range of products.
However, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level in the United States, although many states have legalized it for medicinal or recreational use. In these states, individuals can legally grow, possess, and use marijuana for personal use, but the drug remains illegal under federal law. This creates confusion and a patchwork of laws, as individuals who use marijuana in states where it is legal can still face federal prosecution.
Uses
Hemp strains are primarily used for industrial purposes, such as the production of clothing, paper, building materials, and food products. These plants are also a rich source of CBD oil used for various medicinal and therapeutic purposes. In contrast, marijuana strains are primarily used for recreational or medicinal purposes, with the higher THC content providing users with a range of psychoactive effects.
Appearance
Finally, hemp strains and marijuana strains also differ in their appearance. The best hemp strains are tall, thin plants with long, slender leaves. These plants are not grown for their flowers, as they produce very little resin and have a low THC content. Marijuana strains, on the other hand, are shorter and bushier, with wider leaves and a higher concentration of flowers and resin.
While hemp strains and marijuana strains may come from the same plant species, they have significant differences in their chemical composition, cultivation and growth, legal status, uses, and appearance. Therefore, it is essential to understand these differences, especially if you consider using hemp or marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes. By being informed about the differences between the two, you can decide which one is right for you.
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