Marijuana Vs. Hemp

The legalization of cannabis in Canada has brought a lot of attention to the differences between hemp and marijuana. While both are part of the cannabis plant family, there are important differences between the two. Understanding these differences is essential for those who want to use or grow either plant, as Canadian laws and regulations are different for each.

This article will provide a detailed analysis of the differences between hemp and marijuana in Canada in 2023, and explain how the two plants are regulated under Canadian law.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that gives marijuana its intoxicating effects. Hemp is typically grown for its industrial uses, including paper, clothing, food, and building materials.

Hemp is legal to grow in Canada, and the government actively encourages farmers to grow it. The plant is subject to specific regulations, however, and farmers must obtain a license from Health Canada to grow it.

Under Canadian law, hemp is considered an agricultural commodity, and it is not subject to the same restrictions as marijuana. Hemp can be grown and processed for its fiber, seeds, and oil, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana is a variety of the cannabis plant that contains higher levels of THC, typically above 0.3%. This compound is what gives marijuana its intoxicating effects and makes it illegal in many parts of the world.

In Canada, marijuana was legalized for recreational use in 2018, under the Cannabis Act. This act regulates the production, distribution, and sale of marijuana, as well as its possession and consumption. The act defines marijuana as “cannabis that is intended for use by smoking, inhalation, or ingestion.”

Marijuana is subject to strict regulations in Canada, and it can only be produced and sold by licensed producers. The government closely monitors the production and distribution of marijuana, to ensure that it is safe for consumption and does not fall into the hands of minors.

Differences between Hemp and Marijuana

Now that we have defined what hemp and marijuana are, let’s take a closer look at the differences between them.

THC Content

The main difference between hemp and marijuana is their THC content. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, while marijuana typically contains between 5-35% THC. This difference in THC levels is what gives marijuana its intoxicating effects and makes it illegal in many countries.

Growing Conditions

Hemp and marijuana also differ in their growing conditions. Hemp is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of climates and soils. It requires little water and is relatively easy to grow. Marijuana, on the other hand, requires more specific growing conditions, including a warm and humid environment, and specific soil and nutrient requirements.

Plant Appearance

Hemp and marijuana plants also differ in their appearance. Hemp plants are tall and thin, with few leaves and long branches. Marijuana plants, on the other hand, are shorter and bushier, with more leaves and shorter branches.

Chemical Composition

While hemp and marijuana are both part of the cannabis plant family, they contain different chemical compositions. Hemp contains high levels of CBD (cannabidiol), a non-intoxicating compound that has been shown to have numerous health benefits. Marijuana, on the other hand, contains high levels of THC, the compound that gives it its psychoactive effects.

Uses

Hemp and marijuana also differ in their uses. Hemp is primarily grown for its industrial uses, including paper, clothing, food, and building materials. It is also used for its CBD content, which has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing anxiety and pain.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is primarily used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Its high THC content is what gives it its psychoactive effects, making it popular for recreational use. It is also used for medicinal purposes to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety.

Regulations for Growing Hemp and Marijuana in Canada

As we have seen, hemp and marijuana are subject to different regulations in Canada. Let’s take a closer look at the regulations for growing each plant.

Regulations for Growing Hemp

To commercially grow hemp in Canada, farmers must obtain a license from Health Canada. The license application process involves submitting a detailed application that includes information about the intended use of the hemp, the location of the grow site, and the security measures in place to prevent theft or diversion.

Once a license is obtained, farmers must follow specific regulations for planting, growing, and harvesting the hemp. These regulations include:

Only growing hemp varieties that are approved by Health Canada

Planting hemp in a field that is at least 4 km away from any marijuana grow site

Keeping accurate records of all hemp activities, including planting, harvesting, and processing

Conducting regular tests to ensure that the hemp contains less than 0.3% THC

Regulations for Growing Marijuana

To commercially grow marijuana in Canada, producers must obtain a license from Health Canada. The license application process involves submitting a detailed application that includes information about the intended use of the marijuana, the location of the grow site, and the security measures in place to prevent theft or diversion.

Once a license is obtained, producers must follow specific regulations for planting, growing, and harvesting the marijuana. These regulations include:

Only growing marijuana varieties that are approved by Health Canada

Implementing strict security measures to prevent theft or diversion of the marijuana

Conducting regular tests to ensure that the marijuana is safe for consumption

Following strict packaging and labelling requirements

Conclusion

In conclusion, the differences between hemp and marijuana are significant, and understanding these differences is essential for anyone who wants to use or grow either plant in Canada. While hemp is legal to grow and process, marijuana is subject to strict regulations and can only be purchased from licensed producers. As we have seen, the regulations for growing each plant are different, and farmers and producers must follow specific guidelines to ensure that their plants are safe and legal under Canadian law.