Hemp and Cannabis are the same species of plant. These plants can be very difficult to distinguish. In fact there’s no actual taxonomical difference between the two.
But while the cannabis plant contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient commonly known as THC, hemp does not. The key difference between the two plants is the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. Hemp contains very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), less than 0.3%. It is the THC in cannabis that produces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. The amount of THC in hemp is unlikely to produce the same effects.
For this reason, in the United States it is hemp that is legally bought and sold and used in the manufacture of foods, medicines and toiletries.
In order to partake in the use of cannabis, a doctors prescription for medical marijuana will be necessary. Historically cannabis plants have been separated into two different types; Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. A third type is considered a hybrid.
Cannabis sativa is said to aid concentration and reduce anxiety and stress. Cannabis indica is more commonly used to increase relaxation and as a therapy for insomnia.
More and more are using the term chemovars (chemical varieties) to distinguish the three types as in:
Type I: High THC
Type II: THC/CBD Combined
Type III: High CBD
In our next post we’ll decipher the difference between CBD and THC.
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