You may have heard about marijuana and its medical benefits, but you might not have heard about CBD hemp. Unfortunately, the two have been used almost interchangeably for so long that it is easy to mistake one for the other. For both health and legal purposes, it is very important to know the difference between the two.
Chemical Differences
The hemp flower is a cousin of the marijuana plant. One of the key differences is the amount of each substance that the two plants contain. Marijuana, known for its high, contains more THC than hemp does. The hemp plant, known for its calming effects, contains more CBD than marijuana. This is why the CBD flower is sometimes preferable, especially for those who need to work or perform other activities.
Physical Differences
There are also a few physical differences between the plants. These physical differences are not in appearance as both plants look very similar. They are in the way that it grows. Hemp is an extremely hardy plant and is most likely where the term weed comes from. It grows outside and does not take much cultivation to get it to grow. Hemp is also useful for a variety of other things such as rope and cloth.
The marijuana plant is pickier about the conditions it grows in. Many growers complain that the soil, sunlight, and water have to be just right to get a good product. Although there are other uses for the marijuana plant, it is mainly used for its THC.
Different Side Effects
Although the side effects are similar between hemp and marijuana, there are subtle differences. One side effect that they have in common has to do with the way they are consumed. Both are far more effective when smoked. Unfortunately, this is the least healthy way to take either. Consuming any burning material is harmful to your lungs, whether it is hemp, marijuana, or cigarettes.
The marijuana high is nonexistent in CBD, and CBD does not come with the paranoia or anxiety that marijuana is sometimes associated with. Both substances are processed in the liver, and there is a potential for liver damage with both but marijuana comes with a higher risk of both liver and kidney damage. Neither one is known for severe permanent side effects.
One of the main differences in side effects is the presence of the high that THC creates. It is the main reason why people use marijuana recreationally and at least part of the reason why marijuana is less legal than CBD.
Legal Differences
Although the legality of both plants is in question, CBD is and has been considered legal for longer in most states. Marijuana is only legal under certain circumstances and in certain states and countries. When you are in a new country or state, you always want to check local laws concerning either substance.
Safety Differences
Although there is no actual evidence that THC or CBD is safe or unsafe, some studies state that the addictive qualities of marijuana make it unsafe to use. This is a point of contention for marijuana users and CBD users. Both substances require further study. There is considerable argument regarding the safety of both substances despite CBD being considered safer.
Different Uses
Medical marijuana is used for everything, from glaucoma to cancer. CBD is mainly used for seizures. The mental effects of each plant are currently being examined.
For the most part, people who use it consider CBD a better alternative to THC. Not only is it legal, but the plant has a broader range of uses. These close cousins are very different when you consider all the factors involved.
