Hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the cannabis sativa plant. The two most commonly known ingredients in the cannabis plant are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
These compounds have different effects on the human body. Marijuana contains high levels ofTHC, the ingredient that has a psychological effect and creates a mind-altering “high.”
Hemp is the term used to classify varieties of the cannabis plant that contains 0.3% or less of THC content (by dry weight). While containing very low levels of THC, hemp contains higher concentrations of other cannabinoids such as CBD and Cannabigerol (CBG).
Cannabidiol (CBD): a non-psychologically active cannabinoid, so there’s less possibilitythat it will cause the same mental confusion, drowsiness or hallucinations that often comewith THC. CBD is being studied to understand potential benefits in a variety of different conditions.
Cannabinoids are natural chemical compounds produced by cannabis flowers, as well as other plants. All cannabinoids produce effects in the body by interacting with cannabinoid receptors, which form part of the endocannabinoid system in the human body.
CBD helps activate the receptors so that the body produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids (ECS).
The ECS consists of two primary cannabinoid receptors: CB1 receptors (most concentrated in the central nervous system and brain)
CB2 receptors (abundant in the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and peripheral nervous systems)
The natural cannabinoids and phytonutrients found in cannabis communicate with these signal receptors of the ECS.
Naturally contains higher ratios of cannabinoids (like CBD and CBG) and terpenes
CBD supports the receptors so that the body makes its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids help promote the proper function of multiple organs and tissues of the body
Contains less than 0.3% THC and is non-psychologically active (won’t make you feel “high”)
Legal under the 2018 US Farm Bill with specific labeling and marketing requirements
Naturally contains high concentrations of THC
THC can cause a psychological effect that creates a mind-altering “high” when a person smokes it or uses it in cooking
Contains lower ratios of naturally occurring cannabinoids (like CBD and CBG) and terpenes
Legal in some states for recreational and medicinal purposes
Not federally legal