How to Identify Hemp Plant – Hemp Plants vs. Marijuana Plants

Hemp has been around for centuries, cultivated by humans for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to, clothing, shoes, ropes, paper, medicine, food, and more. Studies have shown that hemp could among one of the plants cultivated by humans for the longest time, for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. Studies have shown that humans have cultivated hemp plants since 2,700 BC in ancient China.

One of the most interesting things about hemp plants is that it is still used today and for a variety of purposes – even more than what it was traditionally used for. This is a testament to the many different means that hemp holds throughout history and up until today. Undoubtedly, hemp is a multifaceted product grown for a wide range of uses, making it all the more fascinating.

How is Hemp Different  From Other Plants?

Some of the major differences between a hemp plant and a cannabis plant boil down to the farming of the plant, as well as their uses, and very importantly, the difference in the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that each one contains. THC is the psychoactive compound that causes a “high,” which is what cannabis is used for.

Legally, hemp plants must not contain higher than 0.3% of THC. On the other hand, cannabis plants test for up to 28% THC. Cannabis products are intoxicating, resulting in a high. However, hemp plants do not result in a high whatsoever due to the fact that they contain such little amounts of THC.

Identifying Characteristics of Hemp Plants

Hemp plants are one of the forms of the cannabis Sativa L. plant. It is important to understand, though, that the many different cannabis plants that exist may all appear very similar in their unharvested state. However, there are distinct differences when it comes down to them being cultivated for certain purposes.

Some studies claim that the cannabis plants that are cultivated for hemp products are generally characterized by:

• Thinner leaves that mostly form at the highest point of the plant
• Contain little leaves or branching below the very top of the plant in order to utilize the long stalks that contain high amounts of hemp fiber
• Can be tall and reach 20 feet
• Looks and grows similar to a weed, as it requires little irrigation and can grow in a variety of different environments and soils
• Grows closely together
• Requires very little care

On the other hand, cannabis plants that are cultivated for THC purposes are generally characterized by:

• Leaves are firmly sprouted, wide, and may feature small buds that are covered in tiny crystals or fibers
• Generally look like fat, short bushes from afar
• More branches to promote THC and flower production
• Requires warm, humid, and controlled environment in order to grow
• Grows with spaced between neighboring plants

Are Hemp Plants Legal?

For years, hemp plants were not legal, along with many other variations of the similar cannabis plant, such as “weed’ plants. In fact, these forms of cannabis plants were considered to be a controlled substance (Schedule I) in the legal system. Although, in the Farm Bill of 2018, otherwise known as the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act, hemp was legalized and was removed from the controlled substances list.

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, in order to grow hemp plants, farmers must have licenses issued by the USDA in order to produce hemp and it must be done under strict regulations. However, in very specific circumstances, hemp may be grown under tribal or state approval, or unless it is grown under authorized research projects.

Approved growers are allowed to legally sell and produce hemp across the U.S.; however, hemp plants must not test for more than 0.3% of THC. Otherwise, it is considered to be illegal marijuana plants, rather than hemp.

What Are the Uses of Hemp?

Traditionally, the fiber in hemp was used to create textiles and materials, such as clothing, shoes, paper, and ropes, among many other products. The hemp fiber used in said products has proven to be extremely durable and perfect for a wide range of materials and textiles. 

Today, hemp may be used for the same purposes; however, it has expanded extensively. In fact, hemp is still used for a number of industrial purposes, as well as foods, oils, creams, and more. It serves as an eco-friendly alternative to a number of products, which can be made into bioplastic, biofuel, hempcrete (limecrete), and much more. Studies have shown that hemp may be useful for certain ailments and may be helpful for its nutritional values, which has now become increasingly popular in hemp oils, creams, foods, and even pet products. 

You would be surprised at the various ways hemp can be implemented into your daily routine. All things considered, there is definitely no shortage of ways hemp can be used. Here are some examples in which you can find hemp products today:

• Hemp seed oil: Hemp seed oil can be used for skincare or can be incorporated into your diet alone, used as an olive oil alternative, or simply mixed in dressings and other foods and drinks.

• Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds are a well-known superfood and studies have shown that they are a powerful source of nutrients, proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. They can be consumed in many different ways, such as in smoothies, salad toppings, muffins, protein bars, and more.

• Pet products: Some studies have shown that pet products containing hemp and CBD may be useful for a wide range of ailments, including but not limited to, anxiety and stress, pain relief, joint issues, skin problems, and allergies, among many other purposes. Hemp and CBD pet products come in a variety of forms, including treats, oils, and more. However, it is always best to speak to your veterinarian before giving your pet any supplements involving hemp or CBD.

About Dripp Extracts

Dripp Extracts takes pride in being a reputable resource for education, providing valuable insight about hemp, cannabis, and related topics. We are dedicated to keeping you up-to-date with the latest news, information, and developments surrounding hemp, ensuring that you stay informed and connected at all times. If you wish to learn more about hemp with Dripp Extracts, feel free to visit https://drippextracts.com/learn for more information.