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Cannabis vs. Hemp vs. Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

Updated: Jan 16

A flowering Cannabis / Hemp Kola Bud
Flowering cannabis kola

In the world of cannabis, terms like "cannabis," "hemp," and "marijuana" often get tossed around, sometimes interchangeably, but they each have distinct meanings. If you’re plugged into the hemp and cannabis space, it’s worth knowing what these words actually mean—not just for clarity but to stay sharp when it comes to what you’re buying and using. Let’s break it down.

 

The Basics: Legal vs. Scientific Definitions

 

Cannabis is the scientific term for a genus of flowering plants that includes different species—think of it as the umbrella term. In other words, all hemp and marijuana plants fall under the cannabis category. But, depending on how much THC (the compound that brings psychoactive effects) each plant has, it might be called hemp or marijuana.

 

Hemp, legally speaking, is cannabis that has 0.3% or less THC by dry weight. The 2018 Farm Bill set this definition in the U.S., making hemp federally legal and opening up a whole new market for products that deliver cannabis benefits without the high—or at least not the typical high of marijuana.

 

Marijuana refers to cannabis plants with more than 0.3% THC. This term has a complicated history, originating from early 20th-century anti-cannabis campaigns that were tied to negative stereotypes. Nowadays, you’ll often hear "cannabis" used in place of "marijuana" to dodge some of those dated associations. But legally, when THC goes above 0.3%, it’s classified as marijuana, and that’s where the tougher regulations come in.

 

 

Intoxicating Hemp: A New Category

Here’s where things get interesting. Intoxicating hemp products, like the ones we carry at Clutch Plug, have made their way into the market by working within hemp’s legal limits but still offering a psychoactive experience. These products are usually packed with THCa, which, when heated, converts to Delta-9 THC—the compound that gets you high.

 

The cool part? These products are federally legal as long as they come from hemp and stay within that 0.3% THC limit on a dry-weight basis. It’s a smart workaround that gives people access to psychoactive effects without navigating the mess of marijuana regulations.

 

Why These Definitions Matter

For our customers, understanding these terms isn’t just about staying informed—it’s about knowing your options. Hemp-derived products (including intoxicating ones) are generally more accessible and less regulated, so you can buy them online and have them shipped across most states. Meanwhile, marijuana products are a whole different ballgame, limited by a patchwork of state laws.

 

And if you’re after something stronger but still legal, intoxicating hemp gives you the best of both worlds. It’s cannabis, it’s psychoactive, and it’s not tied down by traditional marijuana restrictions.

A Quick Recap of Cannabis Terminology

  • Cannabis: The umbrella term for all cannabis plants, including hemp and marijuana.

  • Hemp: Cannabis with 0.3% or less THC, legal under federal law.

  • Marijuana: Cannabis with over 0.3% THC, which is typically regulated on a state-by-state basis.

  • Intoxicating Hemp: Legal, hemp-derived products that deliver a high thanks to THCa and other cannabinoids.

 

Wrapping It Up

The cannabis landscape is always evolving, and staying clued in on terms like cannabis, hemp, and marijuana helps you navigate this space with confidence. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned user, understanding these nuances keeps you ahead of the game and gives you the freedom to explore the right products for your vibe.

 

At Clutch Plug, we’re here to keep it real and make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. Our line of intoxicating hemp products? Let’s just say it’s as close as you can get to cannabis, without all the legal hoops. So, next time you’re shopping with us, know that we’ve got you covered with the clarity and quality you deserve.


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