The differences between hemp and CBD

Are you seeing more and more CBD products available online, in pharmacies, or in specialist shops? Cannabidiol is becoming increasingly popular. Have you seen that it is an approved and legal compound in France, but can’t stop wondering what the differences are between hemp and CBD? Why is this active ingredient called “legal cannabis”? Does this type of cannabis really come with no health risks? In this article, we are going to tackle all the preconceived ideas related to hemp and cannabis to help you gain a better understanding!

Hemp, CBD, cannabis: definitions

What is hemp?

To better understand the differences between hemp and CBD, we’re going to start by defining several terms. The term “hemp” refers to a natural plant, which has now been domesticated by humans. It has always been grown to make clothes, cosmetics, and oils. Its cultivation is perfectly legal. Hemp plants are identical to cannabis plants, which is why there is often confusion between the two. However, hemp does not contain any psychotic substances as its THC content is less than 0.3%. It is for this reason that hemp cultivation is legal in France and most other European countries.

What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is not a plant, it’s a compound. It can be found in both hemp and cannabis, just like its cousin THC. The difference is that CBD has no recreational effect and does not cause the famous “stoned” effect. It is currently at the forefront of the medical field as it has numerous therapeutic properties that have been recognised by the WHO, most notably that it helps with relaxation, as well as stress and pain management. CBD is legal in France as long as it was sourced from approved farming and contains less the 0.3% THC. It comes in the form of CBD flowers and oils which contain terpenes and flavonoids. CBS is used in treatments, balms, capsules, cooking, or vapes.

What is cannabidiol?

The term “cannabis” causes more confusion as it is more versatile. Cannabis refers to all plants and products of this type. So, cannabis can be recreational or non-recreational. Hemp (non-recreational) is as much cannabis as marijuana (recreational). All cannabis varieties contain THC, but the exact amount depends on the plant.

What are the differences between hemp and CBD?

There are few differences between hemp and CBD. These two substances come from the same plant and allow the same products to be made. However, hemp comes from the plants’ seeds whilst CBD comes from the plant itself. Therefore, CBD oil is more expensive than hemp oil. It also has different effects on the human body. Another difference is that CBD contains cannabinoids, whilst hemp does not. In both cases, these natural active ingredients are excellent for your health. Hemp is beneficial as it reduces blood pressure, whilst CBD is known for its relaxing and soothing properties.

What are the differences between cannabis indica and sativa?

Although they both come from cannabis, hemp contains little THC whilst marijuana contains a high level. This difference is due to the plants used. Cannabis sativa and cannabis indica don’t have the same characteristics (geographic origin, effects, appearance and size, aroma, flowering, yield, etc.). With regards to therapeutic uses, the analgesic effects are more widely recognised in indica strains. Sativa strains have a higher THC/CBD ratio. Additionally, it is rare to find a cannabis sativa plant that does not contain THC. Therefore, this plant isn’t used for legal CBD.

CBD oil or hemp seed oil?

It’s easy to confuse CBD oil and hemp seed oil, although the two don’t deliver the same effects. There are products made from cannabidiol which are confused with hemp oil alternatives such as olive oil, particularly because some careless manufacturers mess around with names on labels. Avoid falling into the trap of low prices and make sure that the product is certified organic virgin hemp seed oil before buying or consuming it.

Hemp or CBD, what does the law say?

Hemp legislation

Are there any differences between hemp and CBD in new legislation? The legal status of hemp and CBD is the same. Unlike marijuana (cannabis) which is considered a drug due to the fact it has a psychotic effect, consuming or selling CBD is perfectly legal. Cultivating industrial hemp and its varied uses are permitted. Whether it’s for making fabrics, treatments, or CBD, manufacturers can freely use the seeds, stems, and all other parts the plant depending on the intended use.

CBD legislation

Additionally, making CBD from hemp is permitted and legal if the following conditions are observed: the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in hemp plants must not exceed 0.3%, and this is the same for the end product. CBD is a cannabinoid which is found naturally in hemp flowers. Several methods can be used to extract and preserve the purity and quality of the compound. Cannabidiol does not cause psychotropic effects and does not lead to dependence (unlike THC). At The CBD Farm, you will only find CBD products which comply with current legislation. Don’t take any risks! Our CBD is organically farmed to guarantee premium-quality and maximum efficacy.