Hemp-Derived THC

From a botanical perspective, hemp and cannabis are the same plant species. However, in the early 20th century, they were categorized differently based on their intended uses. The term “cannabis” typically refers to the plant when used for spiritual, medicinal, or recreational purposes, while “hemp” is used to describe the plant when utilized for food or materials. With the passage of the Farm Bill in 2018, this legal distinction between hemp and cannabis became more pronounced.

Yes, thanks to the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp and cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% THC are categorized as hemp or “industrial cannabis” and are now federally legal in the United States, as we mentioned earlier. This has provided a legal framework for the cultivation and production of hemp-derived products in the country.

Hemp, one of the oldest cultivated plants by humans, has a rich history of serving a wide range of purposes. For thousands of years, hemp has been used as food, fabric, paper, and building materials, including insulation and hempcrete. Its flowers have been valued for their medicinal properties, and hemp has even been utilized in the creation of bio-fuels and bioplastics. In fact, hemp was featured in a 1942 US government propaganda film, encouraging farmers to grow it on their lands as a patriotic duty during World War II.

In addition to its physical benefits, hemp shares similar health benefits with CBD, one of the cannabinoids found in its chemical composition. CBD is known for its potential to alleviate anxiety, depression, and pain. Many users also rely on CBD to help with chronic insomnia and improve the quality of their sleep. With its diverse forms, CBD offers targeted relief without the use of chemicals, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies.

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant. Extensive research has identified that the cannabis plant produces a wide range of cannabinoids, numbering between 80 to 100 different compounds. Among the most well-known cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Hemp’s versatility and widespread use are evident in the countless products it can be found in, ranging from common items to more unexpected applications. Examples of hemp utilization include rope, plastics, paper, building materials, bio-fuel for cars, consumer goods such as laundry detergent, pens, furniture, and glasses, beauty products, automobile manufacturing hemp composites, pet products, hemp protein powders, energy bars, veggie burgers, granola, dips and sauces, hemp milk, hemp flour, hemp tea, coffee, beer, and other hemp-infused beverages. The list of hemp-derived products is vast and continues to expand due to its versatility and potential for various applications.

According to the definition set by the US government, hemp, which contains less than 0.3% THC, is unlikely to cause a traditional “high” sensation. Users of hemp can expect similar effects to CBD, such as feelings of calmness, relaxation, and mild euphoria. The low THC content in hemp prevents the psychoactive effects associated with higher THC concentrations, making it a non-intoxicating option for those seeking therapeutic benefits without the mind-altering effects typically associated with cannabis.