If you're new to the world of CBD, you may have heard terms like "hemp," "cannabis," and "legal CBD" thrown around. Here's a quick tutorial to help you understand what these terms mean and how they relate to one another.
Hemp and Cannabis: What's the Difference?
Hemp and cannabis are both plants that come from the same species, Cannabis Sativa L. However, they have different characteristics and uses. Hemp is typically grown for industrial purposes, such as making textiles, paper, and building materials. It contains low levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that gets you "high," and higher levels of CBD, a non-psychoactive compound that has potential health benefits.
Cannabis, on the other hand, is grown for its THC content and is used recreationally and medicinally. It can contain high levels of THC and lower levels of CBD.
Legal CBD: What Is It?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in both hemp and cannabis plants. However, CBD derived from cannabis is still considered a controlled substance at the federal level, while CBD derived from industrial hemp is legal under certain conditions.
In 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act, also known as the Farm Bill, removed hemp from the list of controlled substances and legalized hemp-derived CBD that contains less than 0.3% THC. This means that as long as the CBD comes from industrial hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC, it is legal at the federal level.
However, there are still some states that have their own laws regarding the legality of CBD, so it's important to check your local laws before purchasing or using CBD products.
Final Thoughts
In summary, hemp and cannabis are different plants with different characteristics and uses. CBD is a compound found in both plants, but hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Always check your local laws and consult with a healthcare professional before using any CBD products.