When it comes to cannabis, the terms hemp and marijuana are often used in the same breath. But although these two may seem comparable, there’s a lot more than just terminology that sets them apart. In this article, we’ll help to clear up any confusion between the two plants by outlining their key distinctions.
As a bonus, we’ll provide practical tips on how to choose top-quality hemp products such as Delta 8 gummies or CBD oil to improve your health. So keep reading if you’re interested in taking a deep dive into learning all about the different cannabis species!
What’s the Difference between Hemp and Marijuana?
Have you ever heard people talk about hemp and marijuana and wondered what the difference is between them? After all, they are both species of cannabis, but some key differences make a big impact on their respective uses.
The Basics of Hemp and Marijuana
Hemp and marijuana are both forms of cannabis sativa and the key difference between them lies in their chemical composition — namely, their levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The latter is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” and it is present in much higher concentrations in marijuana than in hemp. The latter contains only trace amounts of THC, lower than 0,3%. This is why it is safely added to different edibles and health supplements.
Legality
In contrast to marijuana which remains illegal at the federal level, hemp is now fully legalized in all 50 states across the country. This means that industrial applications of the crop are available to more people with fewer restrictions than those who produce marijuana for recreational or medicinal use. With hemp being more widely accepted, it opens up new potential uses in fields such as nutrition, fabrics and textiles, paper production, biofuel, and more.
Health Effects
One difference that is quite important to know is the health effects of the two cannabis species: while marijuana has been linked to feelings of euphoria, hemp’s use can be beneficial in terms of improving your overall well-being. Thus, the plant is rich with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, various amino acids, fatty acids, and much more. In other words, if you’re looking for natural plant remedies for boosting immunity or improving concentration, it’s hemp, not marijuana that should be of help!
A How-to Guide to Choosing Safe Hemp-Based Products
Know Where the Plant Comes From
You need to always purchase from a reputable brand or supplier. Before making your purchase, try to find out as much as you can about where the plant is grown and how it was processed. It’s also worth asking questions about what kind of tests are done on the products — regular testing by an independent laboratory will ensure that all products meet safety standards.
Be Aware of THC Levels
When shopping for any type of hemp product, it’s important to be aware of the THC levels. If a product contains more than 0.3% THC it cannot be considered hemp-based. Instead, it will be regarded as intoxicating or intoxicant-like and its use might be illegal or dangerous for your health. So make sure you check the label on all products before you buy them.
Know Your Needs
Knowing your needs before purchasing hemp products can be extremely helpful when it comes to finding high-quality options. For instance, if you’re looking for something to help with sleep, look for products that specifically mention this benefit in the product description. If you’re looking for an energy boost or increased focus, select an item that caters to those goals. By taking this extra step and doing some research, you’ll make sure that you purchase what’s best for your situation. Plus, it might be a good idea to consult your healthcare provider so that they give some recommendations on which health improvements to look for.
Look Out for Contaminants
When buying any kind of food or supplement made from hemp, it’s essential to look out for contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. These can be harmful when ingested, so make sure that any product you buy has been tested for them. Most reputable brands should have third-party test results available online — if they don’t, then it’s best to avoid buying from them altogether.
Understand the Types of Products Available
From oral supplements such as pills and gummies to tinctures and oils, there is a world of hemp products out there ready for you to discover and explore. Each differs in terms of texture, usage, and how they interact with your body. It is thus necessary to understand how each product type works and how it fits your health needs. Doing some research can be a great way to ensure that you are selecting the highest-quality hemp product for your specific needs.
Read Independent Reviews
Last but not least, reading reviews is a step that can help you make an informed decision. Doing so allows you to learn from other people’s experiences and provides the opportunity to ask questions about any potential deal-breakers. Reviews are the most reliable way to find out whether a certain product has quality ingredients or not, making them extremely beneficial for both your wallet and health. Besides, good reviews should point out the advantages and features of the product, which could influence your choice even more. One small tip: make sure that you are checking real customers’ testimonies, rather than fake ones. By taking these steps when selecting hemp products, your satisfaction is almost always guaranteed!
Conclusion
Now that you know the differences between hemp and marijuana, you should be better equipped to make the best decisions for your health. Hemp can be an incredible source of nutrition, beauty aids, and industrial materials — a powerhouse you don’t want to miss out on. Do your homework when it comes to choosing high-quality hemp products though. If you’re ever uncertain, know that there are resources out there that can help inform your decision-making process.