Today we're going to quickly cover the difference between hemp and marijuana.
Visually, both hemp and marijuana look nearly identical—and that's because they're both members of the same plant family—Cannabis sativa L.
It's What's Inside That Counts
And while many cannabis plants can look similar, it's really what's inside that counts. By that, I mean the chemical makeup within the plant: cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytonutrients.
Plant genetics are incredibly diverse, but the difference between hemp and marijuana boils down to just one cannabinoid: Tetrahydrocannabinol—commonly known as THC.
THC is the primary intoxicating compound responsible for causing the “high” associated with marijuana.
While hemp also contains this compound, it cannot legally contain more than 0.3% THC. And in such a small amount, THC won't cause a high of any kind. It does, however, play an important role by synergizing with other hemp compounds in what is known as the entourage effect.
But we'll save that for another video.
THC < 0.3% = Hemp
Ultimately, the legal definition of cannabis depends on that 0.3% threshold. If the plant contains less than 0.3% THC, it's hemp. And if it exceeds that number, it's considered marijuana.
That's it! Simple, right?
If you want more information about cannabis, keep watching these videos at HempLucid University. My name is Vanessa, and it's been a joy hanging out with you guys.
