Difference between hemp and cbd
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Understanding the Difference Between Hemp and CBD
Hemp: Definition and Uses
Hemp refers to cultivars of the Cannabis sativa plant that are specifically grown for industrial purposes and contain low levels of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana . Hemp is a versatile crop used in the production of a wide range of products, including food, textiles, biodegradable plastics, paper, and biofuel. Hemp seeds and hemp seed oil are particularly noted for their nutritional value, providing essential amino acids, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and fibers.
Cannabidiol (CBD): Definition and Therapeutic Uses
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, including both hemp and marijuana varieties . Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, making it a popular choice for therapeutic applications. CBD has been shown to have a wide range of medicinal benefits, including the treatment of chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, and severe epilepsy . The first CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2018 for the treatment of rare epilepsy disorders.
Chemical Composition and Regulation
Hemp and CBD differ significantly in their chemical composition and regulatory status. Hemp plants are legally defined as containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight, making them non-intoxicating and legal for cultivation in many regions . In contrast, marijuana plants contain higher levels of THC and are subject to stricter regulations. CBD can be extracted from both hemp and marijuana, but hemp-derived CBD is more commonly used due to its legal status and lower THC content.
Essential Oil Profiles and Antimicrobial Activity
The essential oil (EO) profiles of hemp and CBD-rich hemp differ in their concentrations of various cannabinoids and terpenes. Studies have shown that wild hemp and registered cultivars have varying levels of major constituents like β-caryophyllene, α-humulene, and caryophyllene oxide. Additionally, wild hemp has demonstrated greater antimicrobial activity compared to registered cultivars, suggesting potential for future breeding and selection of CBD-rich EO production.
Differentiation Techniques
Differentiating between hemp, CBD-rich hemp, and marijuana can be achieved through various analytical techniques. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) and gas and liquid chromatography are commonly used for precise quantification of cannabinoids. Recently, Raman spectroscopy has been proposed as a non-invasive and non-destructive method for confirming the presence of CBD and other cannabinoids in plant material.
Conclusion
In summary, hemp and CBD are distinct yet related components of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp is primarily used for industrial purposes and contains low levels of THC, while CBD is a non-intoxicating compound with significant therapeutic potential. Understanding the differences in their chemical composition, uses, and regulatory status is crucial for informed scientific and medical applications.
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