Category: Medical Marijuana in Ohio
It’s no secret that the cannabis plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In fact, cannabis is one of the oldest and most versatile plants known to man. However, what a lot of people don’t know is that there are different types of cannabis, and each type has its own unique set of benefits. One such variety is hemp, which is commonly confused with marijuana.
The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana
Hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the cannabis plant. However, they differ in their tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. THC is the psychoactive compound that gives users the “high” feeling often associated with marijuana use. Marijuana can contain up to around 30% THC, while hemp contains 0.3% or less THC. This difference in THC content is what separates hemp from marijuana.
Why the Confusion?
So, why is there so much confusion between hemp and marijuana? One of the main reasons is that both plants look very similar. They are both green and leafy with similarly shaped flowers. Another reason for the confusion is that the words “hemp” and “marijuana” have been used interchangeably throughout history.
The confusion between hemp and marijuana also has to do with the legal status of each plant. For many years, marijuana was illegal in most parts of the United States, while hemp was not. This is because hemp has a low THC content and is not psychoactive, while marijuana is psychoactive and therefore named a Schedule 1 substance in the United States.
However, times have changed and the legal status of hemp and marijuana has changed as well. In the United States, for example, cannabis was made illegal in 1937 with the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act. Technically, the law was aimed at ceasing the recreational use of marijuana, but hemp was caught up in the legislation as well.
However, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp at the federal level, and many states have also legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes.
The confusion between hemp and marijuana is understandable. However, it’s important to know the difference between these two plants, especially if you’re considering using cannabis for medicinal purposes. Hemp and marijuana may stem from the same plant, but they offer different benefits.
Uses for Hemp
Hemp has a long, useful history. The plant can be used to make clothing, paper, nutritional supplements and even beauty products. In recent years, there has even been a renewed interest in hemp as a possible source of biofuel.
Benefits of Medical Marijuana in Ohio
In Ohio, medical marijuana is legal for patients diagnosed with a qualifying condition who have a doctor’s recommendation. Qualifying conditions include:
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- PTSD
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Fibromyalgia
- And more
Medical marijuana has a wide range of potential benefits. The plant can be used to manage pain, nausea, inflammation and anxiety. It can also be used to improve appetite and sleep. In some cases, medical marijuana has even been shown to help patients reduce their dependence on opioids.
If you’re considering using medical marijuana, it’s important to talk with a medical marijuana doctor near you in Ohio, at TruReleaf MD, to see if it’s right for you. They will be able to help you determine if you have a qualifying condition and provide a recommendation to help you get your Ohio medical marijuana registry card.
Get started today by taking the online qualification survey.