Hemp vs. Marijuana: What Are the Differences?

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Hemp and marijuana are often confused, but they are not the same. While they come from the same plant, they differ in how they affect the body, how they are used, and how they are regulated.

Understanding these differences is important if you are exploring your options, whether for general wellness or medical use.

Hemp and Marijuana Come From the Same Plant

Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant. This is why they can look, smell, and grow similarly.

The main difference between them is how much THC they contain. THC is the compound that causes the “high.”

• Hemp contains very low levels of THC (0.3% or less), and some products may contain no THC at all, depending on how they are processed

• Marijuana contains higher levels of THC

This one difference affects everything from how they are used to how they are regulated.

Legal Differences in Virginia

Hemp and marijuana are treated very differently under the law, and Virginia has its own unique rules.

Hemp Laws

Hemp is federally legal as long as it contains no more than 0.3% THC. It can be grown, processed, and sold under regulations.

However, federal lawmakers are starting to take a closer look at hemp-derived THC products. Federal proposals aim to restrict or ban certain intoxicating hemp products, especially those that have become popular in recent years.

As a result, the hemp market may continue to change, with stricter rules on what can legally be sold.

Marijuana Laws in Virginia

Marijuana is legal in Virginia for medical and recreational use, but recreational use has some major limitations.

Recreational use:

• Adults 21 and older can legally possess marijuana

• Retail sales are not currently permitted

• Adults are also allowed to grow a limited number of plants at home for personal use, as long as they follow state rules, such as keeping plants out of public view and ensuring they are not accessible to minors

This means that even though marijuana is legal to use, there is no legal retail market where adults can purchase it recreationally from dispensaries.

Medical Marijuana in Virginia

To legally purchase marijuana in Virginia, you must be a registered patient in the state’s medical program.

• A written certification from a registered marijuana provider is required

• Once the doctor submits the patient's certification to the CCA portal, purchases can be made at licensed medical dispensaries

Because there are no recreational dispensaries available, having a medical marijuana card is currently the only legal way to buy marijuana in Virginia.

THC Levels: The Key Difference

The legal definition of hemp versus marijuana is based on THC content.

• Hemp contains 0.3% THC or less

• Marijuana contains more than 0.3% THC

Hemp does not produce a strong high because of its low THC levels. Marijuana, however, can cause noticeable psychoactive effects. This is the most important difference and the reason they are treated differently under the law.

Effects on the Body

Hemp

Hemp is commonly used in non-intoxicating products, many of which contain CBD.

Individuals often use hemp-derived products for:

• Relaxation

• General wellness

• Mild discomfort

Marijuana

Marijuana contains higher levels of THC and can produce stronger effects.

Common effects include:

• A euphoric or “high” feeling

• Pain relief

• Appetite stimulation

• Sleep support

Why It Can Get Confusing

Hemp and marijuana can be difficult to tell apart because they are so similar.

• They come from the same plant

• They can look and smell the same

• Some hemp products contain small amounts of THC

On top of that, changing laws, especially around hemp-derived THC products, have made things even more confusing for consumers.

Which One Is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your needs.

• Hemp may be a good option if you want something non-intoxicating and easy to access

• Marijuana may be better suited for those looking for stronger effects or targeted relief from a variety of conditions

In Virginia, it is especially important to understand that purchasing marijuana legally requires participation in the medical program.

Speaking with a registered provider can help you determine if medical marijuana is right for you and guide you through the process. At Virginia Marijuana Card, our team makes the process simple by connecting you with one of our licensed practitioners through convenient telemedicine appointments, so you can complete your evaluation from home. Virginia does not have a strict list of qualifying conditions, so providers can use their medical judgment based on your individual needs. If our doctor thinks that you qualify, there is no patient-side state application required; our practitioners submit your certification directly to the CCA, and you can then use your medical marijuana card to visit licensed dispensaries and access regulated products with professional guidance and consistent availability.

Final Thoughts

Hemp and marijuana may come from the same plant, but they are very different in how they work and how they are regulated.

The biggest difference is THC content, which affects both the experience and the legal status of each.

In Virginia, while recreational use is legal, access to marijuana is still limited. For those looking for safe, legal, and reliable access, the medical marijuana program remains the best option.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today

Lucky for you, medical marijuana is already available in Virginia! You can get your medical marijuana card and access dispensaries today! 

Recreational marijuana is legal in Virginia, but it does not mean much since there are no recreational dispensaries to purchase products from.

If you don’t already have your card, no worries. We can help! If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you would qualify for your medical card in the State of Virginia. There’s no list of qualifying conditions, so anyone with a medical condition could get a medical marijuana card! With telemedicine, it is now easier than ever to get your medical card from the comfort of your own home!

Schedule an evaluation online today, and we’ll make an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors.

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Virginia Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Virginia’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.

Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (888) 633-5808 or schedule your evaluation today

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