Hemp buds are non-intoxicating cannabis sativa nugs that contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. These buds often look, smell, and taste identical to marijuana buds containing THC, but they won’t get you high.
The easiest way to tell the difference is by looking at the plants themselves. Hemp plants have a green, fibrous appearance with long stalks and branches that grow vertically instead of horizontally.
Leaves
The leaves of a hemp plant can be used in many ways. Some people smoke them, while others make lotions or oils. They can also be eaten raw or cooked.
The long, slender leaves of a hemp plant look different than the thin, serrated leaves of a marijuana plant. Hemp plants have more sparse leaf clusters at the top of the plant, whereas marijuana plants have more leaves in the middle and bottom sections.
Hemp leaves are a nutritional powerhouse that contain high amounts of Vitamin C, protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for healthy brain, heart and skin functioning.
Trichomes
Trichomes are a critical part of how plants protect themselves from the elements. They trap water vapor and increase humidity, helping the plant to stay hydrated.
They also secrete terpenes and cannabinoids that help the plant fight pests, diseases and other environmental stressors. They also aid in reducing water loss from the plant by preventing evaporation.
The trichomes on the buds and sugar leaves are a key part of a plant’s defense system, as they act as a barrier against the elements. They are also prized for their ability to produce and store aromatic terpenes and cannabinoids.
They can be found on all parts of the plant, but they are most common on a plant’s leaves and buds. These trichomes are what are often considered to be the best producers of THC and CBD.
Nodes
One of the best ways to identify hemp buds is by looking at the way they grow. Hemp plants tend to produce long slender leaves, which is a far cry from the thick and leathery variety of marijuana. The plant also has a few unique features, including leaf scars, which look like they were worn off over time and an interesting and distinctive appearance.
Hemp and marijuana are two of the most common types of cannabis grown today, and it is important to know the difference. For starters, hemp has a high concentration of cannabidiol (CBD) and is less likely to produce a psychoactive effect. This makes it the ideal product for those who aren’t interested in taking in a mind-altering dose of THC. Besides being legal in many states, hemp is an excellent source of fiber and protein. In the right hands, it can be a thriving enterprise with countless benefits for farmers and the environment.
COA
The COA is one of the most important pieces of information you can look for when shopping for CBD products. It will give you a detailed breakdown of the product’s ingredients and potency.
In addition to cannabinoids like CBD, CBG and CBN, terpenes are also often listed. Terpenes are natural aromatic oils that are thought to amplify the therapeutic effects of hemp’s individual cannabinoids.
It’s a good idea to check each COA for anything that appears out of place or has been altered. For example, if you notice that the name at the top of the page is different or has been moved, it could be a sign that results have been tampered with.
You should also look for a microbial profile and pesticide residues. These are both important to ensure that the hemp you’re buying is free of harmful contaminants. If you find a COA that doesn’t have a microbial profile or any pesticide residues, that’s a big red flag.
