What is hemp: How is it obtained and how does it differ from marijuana?

Hemp is an ancient plant cultivated for its many industrial and textile uses. Despite its close relationship with marijuana, hemp has characteristics that clearly differentiate it, both in its chemical composition and its applications. In this article, you'll learn what hemp is, how it's obtained, and the fundamental differences with marijuana. If you're interested in purchasing hemp-derived CBD products, you can visit our CBD store here .

What is hemp?

Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa L. plant, one of the oldest species cultivated by humanity. Although it belongs to the same family as marijuana, its composition and characteristics make it very distinct. The main difference lies in its low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, the compound responsible for marijuana's psychoactive effects. While marijuana can contain up to 30% THC, hemp has low percentages of THC, making it a safe and legal plant for use in various industries.

Hemp is a robust and versatile plant grown worldwide. It is primarily used in the textile, construction, cosmetics, and paper manufacturing industries. Its cultivation is also sustainable, as it does not require large amounts of water or pesticides, making it an excellent option for organic farming.

How is hemp obtained?

Hemp cultivation begins with the selection of certified seeds that meet legal requirements for THC content. The plant is then planted in open-air fields and cared for until harvest, which typically occurs 90 to 120 days after planting.

Once harvested, hemp undergoes a process of separating its different parts: the fibers, the stalk, and the seeds. The fibers are especially valued in the textile industry for their strength and durability, while the seeds are used for the production of nutrient-rich oils and foods. The hemp extraction process is completely natural and environmentally friendly.

Furthermore, advanced extraction techniques are used to produce hemp-derived CBD, resulting in a pure, contaminant-free product. This CBD is then used in products such as oils, cosmetics, and aromatic hashish, complying with the legal standards required by Spain to ensure its safe use.

Differences between hemp and marijuana

Although hemp and marijuana come from the same species ( Cannabis sativa ), there are key differences that separate them:

• THC Content: As mentioned above, hemp has a low THC content, while marijuana can have a much higher percentage. This difference is key to understanding why hemp is legal in many countries, including Spain, while marijuana is not in most.
• Appearance: Hemp plants tend to be taller and thinner than marijuana plants, which tend to be more compact and have a denser structure. Hemp leaves are also narrower and longer.
• Industrial vs. Recreational Use: Hemp is primarily grown for its industrial uses, while marijuana is grown for its psychoactive properties. Hemp is used in the manufacture of textiles, paper, bioplastics, and construction materials, among others.
• Cultivation: The growing conditions for both plants also differ. Hemp requires less maintenance, grows quickly, and is resistant to pests, making it a more sustainable option compared to marijuana.

Hemp in Spain: Legality and Regulations

In Spain, hemp is completely legal. This allows the cultivation and sale of hemp-derived products for industrial and cosmetic purposes, but not for consumption as food or smoking.

Companies that sell hemp products, like Iberohemp , comply with all legal regulations to ensure the safety and quality of their products. This includes laboratory testing that verifies THC levels and ensures the products are suitable for topical or aromatic use.

Final thoughts on hemp and its differences with marijuana

In short, hemp and marijuana, although belonging to the same plant species, are very different in their composition and uses. Hemp, with its low THC content and multiple industrial applications, has become a valuable option for various industries.

If you're interested in exploring our selection of CBD products, visit our store at Iberohemp .

The Ministry of Health publishes the draft royal decree regulating the dispensing of standardized cannabis formulations for therapeutic purposes.