Hemp is often confused with its cannabis cousin, marijuana, but the two plants are quite different. Hemp has been used for centuries in a variety of applications, including paper, textile, and fuel. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in hemp as a possible agricultural commodity and as a source of CBD, or cannabidiol.
Despite its long history of use, there are still many misconceptions about hemp. Here are four of the most common myths about hemp, debunked.
Myth 1. Hemp Is the Same as Marijuana
Hemp and marijuana are both members of the Cannabis sativa species, but they are different plants. Hemp is typically distinguished from marijuana by its appearance, growing habits, and chemical composition. Hemp plants are typically taller and thinner than marijuana plants, with long, narrow leaves. They are also usually grown in larger quantities and at lower densities than marijuana.
That being said, the main difference between hemp and marijuana is their THC content. THC is the compound in cannabis that gets users high. Marijuana plants have high THC levels, while hemp plants have very low THC levels. In fact, the THC levels in hemp are so low that it is impossible to get high from smoking it.
Myth 2. Hemp Is Only Used for Making Rope
Hemp has a long history of being used for a variety of purposes, including paper, textiles, and fuel. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in hemp as a possible agricultural commodity and as a source of CBD.
Hemp can be used to make a variety of paper products, including paper towels, toilet paper, and cardboard. It can also be used to make a variety of textile products, including clothing, rope, and fabric.
Hemp can also be used as a biofuel. Hemp plants contain a high percentage of cellulose, which can be converted into ethanol or other biofuels.
Myth 3. Hemp Is Illegal
Hemp was federally outlawed in the United States in 1937 with the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act. However, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp cultivation at the federal level.
Hemp is still illegal in some states, however. It is important to check your local laws before growing or buying hemp.
Myth 4. Hemp Is a New Crop
Hemp has been cultivated for centuries. It was grown extensively in the United States during the colonial era and was a major crop in the early republic. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both cultivated hemp on their plantations, and the crop was an important part of the American economy until the early twentieth century.
So, it isn’t a new crop by any means, and it has been cultivated for a long time!
Myth 5. Hemp gets you High
It is often confusing for many people who aren’t aware that there are hemp and marijuana cannabis plants. It is all cannabis, but with a very big difference. Marijuana cannabis has more than 0.3% delta 9 THC and hemp cannabis has less than 0.3% delta 9 THC. This means that although marijuana use gives its users that classic “high” feeling, hemp has so little THC that it does not get you high.
Conclusion
Of course, apart from the myths that we’ve shared already, there are plenty of other myths out there. For example, some people believe that CBD and hemp are the same things. But of course, CBD does come from hemp, and hemp itself is just the plant. Either way, whenever you hear anything about hemp or hemp-related, always do your research. By educating yourself with the truth, you know what you can expect when working with hemp and make the most out of it.
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