The cannabis plant, also known as hemp or marijuana, is one of the most controversial plants in the world. The reason lies in its chemical composition, which may or may not contain the psychoactive compound THC. This often leads people to confuse it with THC-rich marijuana, which is illegal in many countries. However, there’s also a type of cannabis called CBD weed, which contains the legal compound CBD. So, when we talk about hemp (Cannabis sativa), it could be a strain with CBD or one with THC, each offering very different effects.
How is the cannabis plant used?
The cannabis plant is incredibly versatile. It’s used in making hemp-based cosmetics, foods like hemp oil, and products containing active compounds like CBD (cannabidiol), CBG (cannabigerol), and CBN (cannabinol). You’ll also find it increasingly used in the textile and construction industries. Some companies offer eco-friendly homes and clothing made from high-quality hemp materials. You can even buy hemp shoes, shirts, and t-shirts. The range of hemp products available is vast.
It’s a fascinating plant with so many uses that it’s hard to pinpoint just one. What you can do with it largely depends on local laws, which may either restrict or allow its use. For example, Slovakia has been pretty conservative in this area, but that’s slowly starting to change.
Hemp: Weed, Marijuana, and Grass
Hemp is often called weed, marijuana, or simply grass. These terms all refer to this controversial plant, which comes in various forms. The most common is dried cannabis, which can contain either CBD or THC. This dried cannabis can be brewed into tea or used in a herbal vaporizer. You can also make “marijuana milk” from it, which can be used to bake tasty cannabis-infused treats.
Hemp Plants and Flowers
Hemp is mainly grown for its flowers, which are packed with active compounds and nutrients like terpenes and flavonoids. These compounds are produced by tiny structures called trichomes, which eventually form small, colorful hairs. It’s no wonder experts refer to them as “cannabinoid factories.” The resin from these trichomes is highly sought after by CBD product manufacturers, who use it to make everything from CBD oil and cosmetics to products for vaporizers, like dab or shatter.
