Cannabis V Hemp: not so different, yet worlds apart

Think of cannabis and hemp as siblings in the same plant family (Cannabaceae), kind of like cousins, but with some key personality differences. The biggest distinction boils down to their tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis – the one that gives you that "high" feeling.

• Cannabis: When people talk about "weed," "marijuana," or "pot," they're usually referring to cannabis varieties that are rich in THC. These plants are cultivated for their potent cannabinoid content, which can range from mild to very high.

• Hemp: On the other hand, hemp is legally defined as cannabis containing 0.3% or less THC on a dry weight basis. That's a tiny amount – not nearly enough to produce psychoactive effects. Instead, hemp is prized for its strong fibers, nutritious seeds, and non-psychoactive cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD). You'll find hemp used in everything from clothing and building materials to food and wellness products.

So, while they look similar, their chemical makeup and primary uses are quite different. Think of it like different breeds of dogs – they're all canines, but a chihuahua and a Great Dane have very different jobs and temperaments!