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What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant genus that includes psychoactive and non-psychoactive varieties used for medical, adult-use, and industrial purposes.
Quick Summary
Cannabis is a plant genus that includes psychoactive and non-psychoactive varieties used for medical, adult-use, and industrial purposes.
Deep Dive
Cannabis usually refers to Cannabis sativa L. and related varieties that produce cannabinoids and terpenes.
The same species can be regulated differently based on THC concentration, product type, and local law.
Modern cannabis policy distinguishes plant biology from legal definitions, which is why the same crop can be legal in one context and illegal in another.
Key Takeaways
- Cannabis is a plant category, not a single product type.
- Regulation often hinges on THC thresholds and intended use.
- Understanding cannabis requires both scientific and legal context.
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Frequently asked questions
Is cannabis the same thing as marijuana?
In modern usage, they often refer to the same plant family, but legal definitions vary by jurisdiction and product THC limits.
Is hemp the same as cannabis?
Hemp is a legal category within cannabis that usually refers to low-THC varieties under a defined threshold such as 0.3% delta-9 THC in the US.