Hemp vs. marijuana: What is the distinction? THC levels and more
When it comes to cannabis, two terms often surface: "hemp" and "marijuana." Although these words are frequently used interchangeably, they refer to different varieties of Cannabis sativa with distinct characteristics, especially regarding THC levels and their roles in wellness routines.
For those looking to enhance wellness without the psychoactive effects often associated with cannabis, understanding these differences is key. In this article, we’ll break down the fundamental distinctions, the impact of THC, and how each fits into modern wellness. Explore Sunmed’s full range of hemp-based wellness products.
What are hemp and marijuana?
Both hemp and cannabis are varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant, but they’re classified differently based on THC content. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the cannabinoid known for producing psychoactive effects. While cannabis typically contains between 5-20% THC, hemp has a maximum THC concentration of 0.3%, rendering it non-intoxicating and ideal for everyday wellness support.
Under the U.S. 2018 Farm Bill, any cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC is legally classified as hemp. This legislation opened the door for hemp-derived products like CBD oil and hemp extracts to enter the wellness market as non-psychoactive options.
In contrast, cannabis’s higher THC content categorizes it as a controlled substance in many regions. While cannabis may be associated with recreational use, hemp is largely embraced as a source of cannabinoids for health and wellness benefits.*
What is the role of THC in hemp vs. cannabis?
THC is the primary difference between hemp and cannabis, affecting how they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Cannabis’s high THC content can lead to psychoactive effects, often sought for recreational purposes. Conversely, the low THC levels in hemp mean it provides wellness support without these psychoactive effects, making it an appealing option for those seeking calmness, relaxation, or balance.
Hemp-derived products utilize the ECS's potential to promote emotional wellness, calmness, and relaxation without intoxication.
Sunmed’s Neuro Water Soluble CBD includes THC in controlled amounts that may enhance wellness benefits through the entourage effect, where cannabinoids work together for a balanced experience.* This daytime formulation is crafted to avoid drowsiness or intoxication, making it ideal for daily support.
How does hemp-derived CBD support wellness?
Hemp extract is rich in CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid widely recognized for its potential to promote calmness and support emotional wellness.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t bind strongly to ECS receptors, making its effects more subtle but still significant for everyday use. Regular CBD use can support overall emotional well-being and help manage occasional feelings of stress.*
Sunmed’s Whole Plant Organic Full Spectrum CBD Tincture utilizes whole-plant benefits by including CBD, THC, terpenes, and flavonoids to maximize wellness. This approach takes advantage of the entourage effect, allowing a broader range of plant compounds to work synergistically for a more comprehensive effect.
How do CBD and THC compare?
For those looking to relax and maintain balance, CBD is an excellent choice. As a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, it supports relaxation and calmness without altering mental clarity. Sunmed’s Broad Spectrum Sleep Gummies may be particularly appealing for users seeking support with sleep quality.*
While hemp products contain low amounts of THC, these trace levels can amplify the effects of CBD and other cannabinoids through the entourage effect. This is why Sunmed includes THC in select formulations for those looking for a well-rounded approach to wellness.
What are full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate CBD?
Now that we’ve covered the core basics, there are a few different types of CBD to get familiar with.
Full spectrum: whole-plant benefits
Full spectrum CBD includes all of the hemp plant’s cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds, including a small amount of THC (less than 0.3%). This formulation is ideal for those who want to benefit from the entourage effect.*
Broad spectrum: non-detectable THC
Broad spectrum CBD products, like those from Sunmed, offer the benefits of multiple cannabinoids and terpenes without THC, making them a choice for users who prefer non-detectable levels of THC while still enjoying a comprehensive cannabinoid profile.
Isolate: pure CBD
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, stripped of all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds. It’s best for those who only want CBD without any additional compounds.
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect occurs when cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds work synergistically to enhance wellness benefits.
By using whole-plant extracts, Sunmed’s Full Spectrum Hemp Extract delivers a complete profile of these compounds, providing a balanced experience that can amplify CBD’s effects on emotional wellness and calmness.*
How to choose the right product for your lifestyle
If you’re looking for complete plant benefits, a full spectrum product with a range of cannabinoids, including a trace amount of THC, might be ideal. This formulation supports the entourage effect, enhancing wellness in a way that single cannabinoids may not.*
Broad spectrum products are ideal if you want the benefits of various cannabinoids without any THC. They support a holistic approach to wellness, minus the psychoactive compound.
Isolate is best for those looking exclusively for CBD. This form of hemp-derived CBD offers targeted benefits for relaxation and calmness without other plant compounds.
The bottom line
Whether you choose hemp or cannabis, CBD or THC, understanding the distinctions can empower you on your wellness journey. For daily support, hemp-derived products fromSunmed provide accessible, non-psychoactive options rooted in the science of the endocannabinoid system. Remember, a consistent approach to wellness yields the best results.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
The Genetic Structure of Marijuana and Hemp | PMC
Getting High on the Endocannabinoid System | PMC
Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don't | Harvard Health
What We Know — and Don’t Know — About CBD | Johns Hopkins
Neurobiology of cannabinoid receptor signaling | NCBI
Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects | PMC