Hemp vs Marijuana: A Complete Breakdown with Terpenes Explained
Posted by Steve Schultheis on Apr 15th 2025

Hemp and marijuana are often lumped together, but they differ significantly in chemical makeup, usage, legality, and therapeutic potential. In this article, we’ll explore how these two cannabis plants differ and how terpenes—the aromatic compounds found in hemp—play a vital role in their effects.
What’s the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?
While both hemp and marijuana belong to the Cannabis Sativa family, the main difference lies in their THC content and how they’re grown and used.
Feature | Hemp | Marijuana |
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THC Content | ≤ 0.3% (non-psychoactive) | 5–30% (psychoactive) |
CBD Content | High | Varies |
Legal Status | Federally legal in the U.S. | Federally illegal, state-legal |
Usage | Wellness, textiles, nutrition | Recreational, medical, wellness |
Growth Pattern | Tall, fibrous, outdoor crops | Bushy, short, indoor-controlled |
Hemp Doesn’t Get You High
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is legal in the U.S. as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. This makes it a safe choice for consumers looking for the benefits of cannabinoids—like CBD, CBG, or CBN—without the euphoric effects of marijuana.
CBD is the primary cannabinoid in hemp, and it interacts with your body’s CB2 receptors to help with balance and wellness. THC, on the other hand, binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, causing a psychoactive “high.”
What Are Terpenes and Why Do They Matter?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in hemp and other plants that influence both flavor and therapeutic effects.
Terpene | Aroma | Reported Effect |
---|---|---|
Myrcene | Earthy, musky | Relaxation, anti-inflammatory |
Limonene | Citrus | Uplifted mood, stress relief |
Linalool | Floral | Calming, anxiety reduction |
Beta-Caryophyllene | Spicy | Anti-inflammatory |
Terpenes + Cannabinoids = The Entourage Effect
When cannabinoids like CBD are combined with terpenes, they create a synergistic effect known as the entourage effect, enhancing the potential benefits of both.
At Steve’s Goods, we develop full-spectrum products that harness this natural synergy—no flavor masking, no shortcuts.
Comparing Chemical Composition
Compound | Found in Hemp | Found in Marijuana | Key Role |
---|---|---|---|
CBD | β High | β Medium-High | Non-psychoactive, wellness focused |
THC | β ≤ 0.3% | β High | Psychoactive, recreational effects |
CBG/CBN | β Present | β Present | Minor cannabinoids for wellness |
Terpenes | β Abundant | β Abundant | Aromatic & therapeutic synergy |
Hemp vs Marijuana Appearance & Cultivation
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Hemp plants are tall, with skinny leaves clustered near the top. They’re grown outdoors in tightly packed rows (just 4 inches apart) and can reach heights up to 20 feet.
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Marijuana plants are bushier, with dense buds and a stronger aroma. They’re grown in temperature- and humidity-controlled environments, spaced about 6 feet apart.
Hemp is typically grown for:
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Fiber
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Seeds
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Cannabinoids (like CBD and CBG)
Marijuana is primarily cultivated for THC-rich flower.
Legal Distinctions in 2025
Category | Hemp Flower | Marijuana Flower |
---|---|---|
THC Content | ≤ 0.3% | > 0.3% (up to 30%) |
Legal Status | Federally legal (Farm Bill) | Still federally illegal, state-led |
Primary Use | CBD, CBG, fiber, wellness | Recreational or medical THC use |
Note: Some states require 0.0% THC in consumer products—choose broad-spectrum or isolate options where necessary.
Why Terpenes Are the Secret Ingredient
Terpenes are more than just aroma—they interact with the endocannabinoid system just like cannabinoids. This opens the door to customized wellness solutions.
Key Benefits of Hemp Terpenes
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Enhanced mood, clarity, and calm
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Targeted anti-inflammatory and pain relief
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Improved bioavailability of CBD
Many of our customers use terpene-rich full-spectrum oils or concentrates to support:
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Anxiety & stress reduction
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Sleep quality
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Focus and energy
Terpenes in Hemp-Infused Products
Steve’s Goods uses terpene science to enhance:
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CBD concentrates (like shatter and wax)
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Skincare and bath bombs
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Custom blends for retailers
We extract terpenes using COβ distillation for purity, and we test every batch for potency and profile balance.
Choose Hemp with Confidence
Hemp isn’t just legal—it’s an accessible, therapeutic alternative to marijuana. From its low THC content to its rich terpene profile, hemp offers a versatile, non-intoxicating way to support wellness.
Whether you're shopping for personal use or launching a wellness brand, understanding the difference between hemp vs marijuana—and the powerful role of terpenes—helps you make smarter choices.
Shop Steve’s Goods for full-spectrum CBD, terpene-rich concentrates, and tested hemp oils sourced from trusted Colorado farms.