CBD and hemp are related but distinct terms that refer to different aspects of the cannabis plant. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between CBD and hemp:
Hemp
Hemp refers to the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa) and its products that contain extremely low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. In the United States, hemp is legally defined as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC content by dry weight. Hemp has been cultivated for various industrial purposes, including fiber, textiles, paper, construction materials, and food.
Hemp Products
Hemp-derived products encompass a wide range of items that utilize different parts of the hemp plant. These products include hemp fiber, textiles, paper, bioplastics, construction materials, animal bedding, nutritional supplements, hemp seed oil (which doesn’t contain CBD), and hemp seeds (used in food products like protein powders and snacks).
CBD
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is one of many compounds found in the cannabis plant, including hemp. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it doesn’t produce a euphoric or mind-altering effect. It has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing pain, inflammation, anxiety, and promoting relaxation. CBD can be extracted from both marijuana and hemp plants, but CBD products derived from hemp are more widely available due to their legal status.
CBD Products
CBD products are typically derived from hemp plants that are specifically bred to have high CBD content and low THC levels. These products can come in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more. CBD products may contain other cannabinoids, terpenes, and compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they must legally contain less than 0.3% THC to be considered hemp-derived CBD in the United States.
In summary, hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant with low THC levels, while CBD refers to a specific compound found in both hemp and marijuana plants. CBD products are derived from hemp and are known for their potential therapeutic benefits, whereas hemp products can have various industrial and nutritional applications beyond CBD extraction.