Is Hemp from the Pot Plant?

There is a lot of confusion surrounding hemp and marijuana, leading many people to believe that they come from the same plant. While both plants are part of the cannabis family, they are different varieties with distinct characteristics and uses.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a strain of the cannabis plant that is grown for industrial purposes. It has been used for centuries in the production of textiles, paper, rope, and other materials. Unlike marijuana, hemp contains only trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a “high.”

In the United States, hemp was classified as a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970, effectively making it illegal to grow without a permit. However, the passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill, removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, allowing for its cultivation and sale for industrial purposes.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that is cultivated for medicinal or recreational use. It contains higher levels of THC than hemp and is well-known for its psychoactive effects.

Unlike hemp, the use of marijuana is still restricted in many states in the United States. However, its legalization has been a topic of debate in recent years, and several states have already legalized its use for medical or recreational purposes.

What are the Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana?

The main differences between hemp and marijuana lie in their chemical composition and uses. Hemp has a much lower THC content than marijuana, typically containing 0.3% THC or less. Marijuana can contain upwards of 20% THC, which is why it has psychoactive effects.

Additionally, hemp is grown for industrial purposes, while marijuana is grown for medicinal or recreational use. Hemp can be used to make clothing, paper, and building materials, while marijuana is used primarily for its psychoactive effects.

Can Hemp be Mistaken for Marijuana?

Despite the differences between the two plants, hemp can sometimes be mistaken for marijuana due to their similar appearance. Both plants have broad leaves and are tall with a similar shape.

However, the difference in THC content is noticeable when the plants are examined up close. Hemp has thinner leaves and is more spaced out, while marijuana plants are bushier with more leaves.

The Bottom Line

So, is hemp from the pot plant? The answer is no. Although both plants belong to the cannabis family, they are different strains with different characteristics and uses. While marijuana is grown for medicinal or recreational use, hemp is grown for industrial purposes and contains only trace amounts of THC.

With the recent legalization of hemp in the United States, it is important for consumers to understand the differences between these two plants and their various uses. By staying informed, we can make informed decisions about the products we use and the future of cannabis regulation and cultivation.