Interest in cannabidiol, or CBD, is growing, but there is some confusion over whether the compound differs when obtained from hemp or cannabis. In this post, we aim to clear up any confusion about the topic.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Hemp and cannabis are both terms for different strains of the same plant — the difference is the amount of THC each contains.
- CBD is a compound and remains the same regardless of whether it is derived from hemp or cannabis.
- Hemp-based products are not currently available from Ashario.ca, but we stock a large selection of cannabis-based CBD products.
Products containing cannabidiol, or CBD, are becoming increasingly popular due to producers’ reported effects. However, many people are unsure whether CBD differs when it is derived from hemp or cannabis. Below, we break down common misconceptions about the CBD compound and the differences that exist between hemp and cannabis.
What Is the Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis?
“Hemp” and “cannabis” are terms for the same species of plant, cannabis Sativa. While the two have a similar appearance, the term “hemp” is used to classify cannabis plants that contain no more than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As with cannabis, Health Canada regulates hemp production and controls the type of hemp strains allowed producers to grow. Health Canada reports that because these strains contain so little THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, they cannot produce the “intoxicating effect” typically associated with cannabis use.
Hemp and cannabis also differ in how they are used. Cannabis is commonly cultivated for recreational and medical consumption precisely because of its THC content. At the same time, hemp is used to make various products, including fabric, paper, building materials, foods (including cooking oil and hemp seeds) and CBD-infused items, such as oils.
Still, there is a wide range of cannabis-derived CBD products that have extremely low THC levels. If you are looking for a CBD product and do not want to experience the effects associated with THC, check product labels; whether it is derived from a hemp or cannabis plant, the CBD and THC levels will always be displayed on the label.
Do Hemp and Cannabis Produce Different Types of CBD?
In short, no. The molecule remains the same, regardless of which plant it comes from, similar to other compounds, like terpenes.
Interestingly, recent research, such as a 2019 study done at the University College London, has shown that combining CBD with THC reduces some of the psychoactive effects of THC. To lower your risk of experiencing unwanted effects (such as paranoia or anxiety), choose a cannabis product with balanced levels of the two.
Where Can I Purchase CBD Products?
Hemp products are not currently available through Ashario.ca, but cannabis-derived CBD products with similarly low THC levels are. To ensure the cannabis you are consuming has been regulated, it’s best always to purchase legal products.
Important Notice: Content on this website is intended strictly for informational purposes. Ashario does not promote any product or represent that the products mentioned on Ashario's website are treatments for any kind of medical condition. Ashario cannot guarantee that information provided is error-free or complete and is not responsible for the quality of the information provided by users. Ashario does not endorse any user-reported information, any particular strain, product, producer, organization, treatment, or therapy.
Important Notice: Content on this website is intended strictly for informational purposes. Ashario does not promote any product or represent that the products mentioned on Ashario's website are treatments for any kind of medical condition. Ashario cannot guarantee that information provided is error-free or complete and is not responsible for the quality of the information provided by users. Ashario does not endorse any user-reported information, any particular strain, product, producer, organization, treatment, or therapy.
