Within cannabis terminology, the terms hemp flower and marijuana flower are frequently used to describe two very different things: two types of cannabis. Each will have the same origin in the plant called Cannabis Sativa, but the flowers of hemp and marijuana come from different cultivation methods and uses. There is a need to differentiate hemp flowers from marijuana flowers because each will have different effects, implications, and benefits.
The Basics: What Is Hemp Flower?
The Hemp flower is the product of the hemp plant, a strain of Cannabis Sativa grown for high CBD content and very low THC levels. Contrary to marijuana, the hemp flower is non-psychoactive; it will not get you high. Checking in at less than 0.3% THC in most cases, hemp flower, which is legally classified as such, is much more available in areas still with restrictions on marijuana.
The momentum of the hemp flower has been gaining speed due to its CBD-rich profile and the therapeutic potential that comes along with it. BC MediChronic provides Grade A- hemp flowers grown outdoors that appeal to anyone seeking the medicinal benefits of cannabis without the intoxicating effect.
Marijuana Flower: High THC Content and Psychoactive Effects
Contrasting, marijuana flowers are grown for their high levels of THC, producing psychoactive effects or the feeling of “high.” Whereas hemp will contain negligible amounts of THC, marijuana flower effects can be particularly significant, with compositions ranging from a high of 5% up to 30% THC. Marijuana is known for its psychoactive effects; however, its medical and recreational uses do vary depending on the region in which one resides.
Cannabinoid Profiles: CBD vs. THC Content
One of the most significant distinctions between hemp flower and marijuana flower is their cannabinoid profile. Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis plants, with CBD and THC being the most well-known. While hemp flower is high in CBD and low in THC, marijuana flower usually has a high THC content and comparatively lower CBD levels.
CBD is widely sought for its health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and providing relief from pain and inflammation. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Therefore, CBD-rich hemp offers a natural option for those seeking therapeutic effects without a high.
Legal Status of Hemp Flower vs. Marijuana Flower
Flowers hemp and marijuana flowers fall under different legal classifications due to their THC content. Legal hemp flower contains less than 0.3% THC, qualifying it for legal sale in many regions under federal laws. This makes hemp flower a THC-free cannabis alternative for individuals who wish to experience the benefits of cannabis without breaking any laws.
Marijuana flower is still regulated as a controlled substance in many regions due to its high THC levels. Although some regions have legalized marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, others restrict its use. Understanding the hemp vs. cannabis laws is essential to avoid legal complications.
Hemp-Derived CBD: A Non-Intoxicating Option
One of the major reasons for the popularity of the hemp flower is the question of its CBD content. Hemp-sourced CBD does not contain intoxication, which contrasts with THC and thus can be quite practical for those who manage anxiety, pain, or stress but must well avoid getting high. Hemp flower’s relaxation properties make it an excellent choice for users seeking a calming effect when in a social or professional setting where psychoactive effects would be undesirable.
Comparing Terpenes in Hemp and Marijuana Flowers
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that contribute to the unique scent and flavour of cannabis. Both hemp and marijuana flowers contain terpenes, but the terpene profile comparison can reveal notable differences. Terpenes such as myrcene, pinene, and limonene may be present in both, but marijuana tends to have a more complex profile due to its higher THC content.
For example, organic hemp flower may be cultivated to enhance specific terpene profiles that promote relaxation and well-being. These terpenes, combined with CBD, contribute to what’s known as the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance each other’s effects.
Uses of Hemp and Marijuana: Medical and Industrial
Both hemp flower and marijuana flower have unique applications:
- Industrial Hemp Uses: Hemp has a wide range of uses beyond medicinal purposes. It is commonly used to produce textiles, paper, biodegradable plastics, and even building materials. Uses of industrial hemp flower extend beyond therapeutic benefits and into sustainable, eco-friendly products.
- Medical Marijuana Flower: Medical marijuana flower is often used for its high THC content to provide relief from severe pain, nausea, and other symptoms that may not respond to CBD alone. Medical marijuana is often prescribed for chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions where THC’s psychoactive effects can offer therapeutic benefits.
Health Benefits of Hemp Flower
The hemp flower provides a number of potential health benefits, particularly because of its very rich profile in CBD:
- Hemp flower for anxiety: Most find that when smoking or vaping hemp flower, their anxiety and everyday stress are calmed by it. The natural calming nature of CBD and some terpenes, such as linalool, make hemp a very popular way to unwind without being under the influence in the slightest.
- Benefits of smoking hemp: Smoking or vaping hemp provides faster relief from symptoms like anxiety or stress due to its quick absorption.
- Hemp flower relaxation: Many users turn to hemp flower for a sense of calm, helping them relax after a busy day without the risks associated with THC.
Hemp vs. Marijuana Cultivation: How They’re Grown
Other important differences are manifested in several aspects of the cultivation of hemp and marijuana.
- Hemp cultivation: Hemp is usually grown outdoors, requiring less care than marijuana. Grows tall and heavy for heavy biomass production that is intended for use in industry.
- Marijuana cultivation: Cannabis plants are grown in more controlled environments, as often the goal is to maximize THC content to enhance the psychoactive effects of the plant; therefore, light, humidity, and nutrients must be carefully watched.
Hemp Flower and Sativa vs. Indica Varieties
While the line of marijuana strains is categorized as Sativa or Indica, hemp flower has its varieties in the same way. It is the Sativa vs. Indica hemp that presents subtle differences in their effects:
- Sativa-dominant hemp: Known for promoting energy and focus, Sativa hemp strains can be uplifting, and ideal for daytime use.
- Indica-dominant hemp: Often more relaxing, Indica hemp strains are typically preferred for evening or nighttime use, offering a soothing and calming experience.
Full-Spectrum Hemp Flower and the Entourage Effect
Some hemp flowers are classified as full-spectrum products, containing all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the plant. The entourage effect in hemp suggests that these compounds work synergistically to enhance each other’s effects. This alone is a distinct advantage for those looking to get holistic cannabis without the disadvantage of an inebriating high associated with THC.
Choosing the Right Option: Hemp Flower or Marijuana Flower?
When deciding between hemp flower and marijuana flower, consider your goals:
- If you’re seeking therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects, hemp is an excellent choice.
- For those interested in experiencing a high or treating conditions that benefit from THC, marijuana flower may be more suitable.
BC MediChronic has a variety of outdoor-grown CBD hemp flowers. These will be perfect for cannabis connoisseurs who want to experience cannabis in a relaxed, non-intoxicating manner. These are low-in-THC legal hemp flowers that will provide the benefits of cannabis minus the psychoactive effects.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Differences
Both hemp and marijuana are becoming more and more accepted as their therapeutic potency is made known, and their uses become more varied. Knowing the various differences between hemp and marijuana empowers a knowledge-based journey toward choosing which one best fits personal wellness, relaxation, or therapeutic support. For a top-shelf, CBD-rich hemp flower experience, check out BC MediChronic and browse our product line to enjoy the natural benefits of hemp sans high.