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Hemp belongs to the Cannabis sativa species, meaning it’s just a variety of the cannabis plant.
Hemp vs Cannabis: What’s the Difference?
Hemp contains .03% or less THC, a compound found in the cannabis plant that can sometimes cause a ‘high’ feeling. With such low levels of THC, it’s very unlikely hemp will cause a ‘high’. Which is why hemp products can be sold over the counter in supermarkets, unlike medical cannabis, which contains higher levels of THC, and can only be prescribed through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf.
Below we’ve created a hemp plant overview for you, diving into what hemp looks like, as well as some industrial hemp vs CBD hemp uses and benefits.
How do you identify a hemp plant?
Hemp plants have tall, slender stalks and can grow up to 10-15 feet. The leaves are long and narrow with serrated edges that look like lots of tiny teeth. The plant is a deep green color with small clustered flowers and seeds that are light brown with a hard shell.
Different Types of Hemp Plants
Industrial hemp is primarily used as a fiber source, for oil, and as an important source of nutrition. It’s grown in large fields of densely sown seeds, which forces the plants to grow vertically. This increases the size of its stalk and seeds, both of which are then used as a renewable resource. We explore more of these uses below.
The flowers, or buds, of hemp plants are where you’ll find high levels of CBD, one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, and less than 0.3% THC. CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t make you feel “high”. And the levels of THC are so low you’re able to purchase CBD products over the counter.
However, the effectiveness of over the counter hemp products is much harder to predict and monitor compared to regulated forms of medical cannabis. An alternative would be to buy CBD products from Alternaleaf’s Pharmacy, Montu Pharmacy. And because they’re non-prescription products, you can order them without a prescription, but still trust the source you’re purchasing from.
Uses for Hemp Plants
Some forms and uses of hemp can include:
- Textiles and clothing
- Paper
- Building materials
- Fuels
- Biodegradable plastics
- Oils
- Food products like oil or hemp milk
- Some CBD products
- Skincare products
Some of the above are actually sustainable hemp products. For example, hemp fibers can be used in eco-friendly clothing and fabrics. When hemp is used in construction materials it can help create sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. And hemp oil can be used as a renewable energy source.
What Are Hemp’s Nutritional Benefits?
Hemp seeds are high in protein, omega-3s, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. And the fibre helps with digestion and overall gut health.
Hemp itself contains nutritious components like essential fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins.
Hemp oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the plant, is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) omega 3 and 6 which are sometimes described as ‘good fats’. Research has shown that the essential fatty acids or ‘good fats’ found in plant oils can help ensure that your heart is healthy.
Potential Medical Benefits of Hemp Plants
Hemp for Anxiety and Sleep: CBD has been seen to promote calmness and reduce anxiety
The ‘good fats’ in hemp may reduce anxiety. However, the effectiveness of over the counter hemp products is much harder to predict and monitor compared to regulated forms of medical cannabis from clinics like Alternaleaf. And if you’re looking for a treatment to help with anxiety, our clinicians can provide guidance to find more efficient ways to tackle the root cause.
There’s research to suggest that hemp seeds can feature high levels of melatonin, the compound that helps the body regulate the sleep-wake cycle. CBD has also been known to promote sleepiness at higher doses. When we’re better rested, quality of life can improve.
Anti-Inflammatory: Hemp can reduce inflammation, especially for conditions like arthritis
Research has shown that these ‘good fats’ may also reduce inflammation.
In 2005, researchers found hemp made a significant difference on atopic eczema, by boosting levels of GLA (a potent anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid), alongside essential fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid
If pain and inflammation are targeted with hemp products, this can also lead to a better night's sleep. Chances are you’ll feel more relaxed if you’re not in pain.
Skin Health: Hemp-based products can help relieve eczema, acne, and other skin issues
Hemp is nourishing and can also moisturise the skin without clogging your pores. This can therefore help reduce acne that’s caused by excess oil.
Linoleic acid and oleic acids found in hemp can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
A 2014 paper weighed up 15 separate psoriasis trials that used omega-3, which is found in hemp oil, to see its effect. It found that 12 of these showed “clinical benefit”.
Pain Relief: CBD could help manage chronic pain and muscle spasms
However, if you’re suffering from chronic pain, along with anxiety, depression, ADHD and a whole bunch of other conditions, it may be worth checking out Alternaleaf as a more effective option. Higher levels of THC and CBD working together have been shown to provide targeted and enhanced therapeutic effects. This is known as the entourage effect.
We also have a whole article on CBD vs hemp oil benefits here if you want to explore more.
Is Hemp Legal in the UK?
Yes, hemp is legal in the UK. But there are rules and regulations, particularly around growing hemp, that must be followed. We explore this in a lot more detail here.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. But keep in mind, you’ll need a diagnosis for a qualifying condition such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD or autism, and it’ll need to be prescribed by a specialist doctor. And just because it’s legal in the UK, doesn’t mean it’s legal everywhere. It is always a good idea to check if you’re travelling somewhere, what their rules and laws are around medical cannabis.
Summary
Whilst hemp has many potential benefits, the lower levels of THC may make it less effective than medical cannabis that can be prescribed.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.