This is such a common question! So let’s dive in.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytochemical, or “plant compound” predominantly present in the plant species Cannabis Sativa L. The Cannabis Sativa L. species is known to produce over 140+ specialized compounds called Cannabinoids, (like CBD, CBG, THC, etc), while some 500+ complimentary plant chemicals also reside within the Cannabis Sativa L. species.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the only cannabinoid (specialized plant compound) in the Cannabis Species which causes a psychoactive effect. This is commonly referred to as “the high.” Naturally various ratios of CBD to THC can offset the psychoactive properties, while delivering medicinal benefits. Products made for these purposes are sold only in Cannabis dispensaries and derived typically from Marijuana plants.
What is the Difference Between Hemp & Cannabis?
Think about this analogy. We love our Canine dog species. Simply because dogs are all from the canine species does not mean we reference a poodle and German shepherd with their species name, in fact we use their “breed name.” What determines a dog breed is their genetic expression. This is similar to the Cannabis Sativa L. plant species.
Marijuana (commonly referred to as Cannabis), has variances in it’s genetic expression from its counterpart of Hemp. Measured and defined by the Department of Agriculture and now the 2018 Farm Bill, Hemp is determined by its naturally low trace levels of THC ( .3% or less), with higher levels of CBD. While a Marijuana crop contains elevated levels of THC, commonly defined as .3% THC or more.
Do the properties and benefits of CBD vary between the two plants?
No, actually not at all. Cannabidiol responds the same way, binding to receptors in the skin and supporting the internal functions of the Endocannabinoid System within the human body. The difference lies in whether you want “generally THC free” CBD products which are made from Hemp extracted CBD, containing .3% THC or less, or if you are exploring the medicinal properties of CBD with THC in products made from Cannabis or Marijuana extract, which will contain .3% THC or more.
