Cannabis vs. Hemp

Oct 1

Written By Lizzie Spier

Updated August 2025

Same plant family, very different rules—and different shopping experiences. Here’s the clear, no-BS guide.

TL;DR

Same species (Cannabis sativa L.).
Legal line: hemp = ≤0.3% delta-9 THC (dry weight); cannabis = >0.3%.
Typical aim: hemp is usually CBD-dominant; cannabis products are THC-dominant (often with CBD + minors).
Where you buy: cannabis = state-licensed dispensaries; hemp can be sold online or in regular stores.
Safety net: licensed cannabis must some level of testing; hemp testing varies.

Same plant, different rules

“Hemp” and “cannabis” aren’t two different plants—they’re legal categories. The 0.3% line is a labeling rule, not a botany lesson. Above it? It’s regulated like cannabis. Below it? It’s “hemp.”

Chemistry & effects (why you feel different)

THC is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid.
CBD isn’t intoxicating; many people use it for balance or to round out THC’s edges.
Terpenes (think scent/flavor molecules like limonene or myrcene) shape the vibe—grape-berry calm, pine-lemon clarity, citrus pop.
Dose + delivery matter more than labels. A low-THC cannabis gummy may feel gentler than a big dose of a “hemp-derived THC” edible.

“Hemp-derived THC,” delta-8, and friends

You’ll see delta-8/delta-10/HHC marketed as “hemp.” They can be intoxicating even if the product is “Farm-Bill compliant.” Regulations and quality vary.

Where products live (and why it matters)

Cannabis (THC-dominant): sold in licensed dispensaries; batches must pass state testing for pesticides, heavy metals, solvents, microbials, mycotoxins. Labels tie to a batch/lot ID you can verify.
Hemp (CBD or hemp-derived THC): can be sold online, convenience stores, or boutiques. Some brands test to high standards; others don’t. Do your research, don’t just trust the marketing.

So…which one’s “better”?

It depends on you.

Want classic flavor and a reliable, regulated experience? Licensed cannabis with real terp profiles is tough to beat.
Want non-intoxicating options or micro-dosing CBD? Well-tested hemp can be a good fit—just vet the lab results.

Lizzie Spier