Some people sometimes use the terms hemp and marijuana interchangeably. This should not be so considering that they do not mean the same thing. Although both come from the cannabis plant, hemp is non-intoxicating, while marijuana is highly intoxicating.
The major difference between hemp and marijuana is the amounts of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) contained in them. While it is less or no more than 0.3% for the former, it is more than this for marijuana, which is enough to trigger psychoactive tendencies in users.
Hemp consumption has therefore made it possible for people to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plants without having to deal with its psychoactive effects. Its increased consumption is also down to its favorable legal status in more places compared to that of marijuana.
However, choosing rightly amidst the several brands, strains, and consumption types can be overwhelming. Fortunately, this discussion covers essential factors to consider in making the right choice. So, keep reading this article to stay informed.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Hemp Flower
Understand What Hemp Flower Is
Some people have mistakenly consumed marijuana despite intending to consume hemp. The huge similarities in the appearance of both cannabis-derived extracts are a major reason for this. Other possible reasons for this mistake include:
- Mislabeling
- Poor Regulation
- Little or No Awareness of What THC Is About
- Cross-Contamination during Processing
- Purchase from Unreliable Sources
Adequate knowledge about what qualifies as hemp flower versus marijuana helps prevent this mistake and its consequences. For example, you should check the THC content of even acclaimed hemp products to be very certain.
Understand the Strain Types
Broadly speaking, all available strains fall under any of three categories – Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, and hybrid strains. The strain type essentially determines its effect on the body.
For example, some are better at leaving consumers energized for daytime activities, while some are better at promoting relaxation for nighttime rest. So, coming to terms with your expectations and the knowledge of what the various strains are best suited for ensures that you use the right one. By the way, some of the things that can influence your choice in this regard include the need for:
- Sleep Support
- Stress Relief and Relaxation
- Pain Management
- Mental Clarity and Focus
Experienced consumers have realized how having an in-depth knowledge of numerous strains increases the chances of choosing rightly. You can click here to see some strains. However, some popular choices among consumers include:
- Sour Space
- Cadillac Rainbow
- Bubba Kush
- Tropical Cherry
- Suver Haze
- White Devil
- Banana Cream
- Peanut Butter Pie
- Blueberry Pie
- Gelato Runtz
Furthermore, strains can determine other features such as aroma and flavor. This means that you can set out looking for certain options and even rule out some options based on these features.
Appearance
Appearance can reveal a lot about these cannabis-derived extracts, which is why you should not make light of their physical and visual properties. Some things to observe to this end include:
Color
The color of the flower is the first tell-sign of its state. Particularly, it reveals how fresh or otherwise it is. Fresh flowers have deep green, purple, or even orange hues, depending on the strain. So, make sure to pay attention to this.
Bud Texture
The bud texture is another huge indicator of the state of the hemp flower. Poor quality options will most likely be dry, brown, and have a moldy appearance. Besides poor quality, poor storage can be responsible for this, which is why proper storage of quality hemp flowers is equally important.
Trichomes
This is the part of hemp flowers that contain crystal-like structures. Their appearance is proof that the flower contains cannabinoids and terpene, while their state indicates how high or low the cannabinoid and terpene contents are. You should opt for products that contain a dense amount of these crystal-like structures.
Third-Party Lab Testing
There are several grey areas when it comes to the regulation of hemp flower products. As a result, consumers have to be extra cautious as some incompetent manufacturers and suppliers have taken undue advantage of these regulatory grey areas.
One way to be adequately cautious is to verify that a third-party laboratory has tested the purchased product for optimal purity, safety, and effectiveness. Reputable third-party laboratories should conduct these tests to ensure accuracy, and the product’s label should display details like:
- CBD and THC Levels
- Terpene Profile
- Presence/Absence of Heavy Metals, Pesticides, and Contaminants
Information about the above-listed would reveal a lot about a hemp flower product’s safety, purity, and effectiveness. So, make sure to check for these at least.
Usage Style
Hemp consumption can happen in several ways, including:
- Smoking
- Vaping
- Edibles and Cooking
- Infusions
- Topicals
- Oils and Tinctures
These consumption styles offer peculiar experiences. For example, the hemp flower’s effects on the body kick in faster with certain consumption styles than with others.
However, certain hemp flowers are better suited for certain consumption styles than others. For instance, options used for smoking or vaping should better be aromatic and well-cured to ensure a smooth experience.
Source
Hemp flowers can be purchased either online or in brick-and-mortar stores. In the case of the latter, you should be mindful of where you purchase yours as some settings are not ideal purchase points. Gas stations are a prime example.
Rather, you should only trust what comes from local dispensaries because of their storage facility and expertise. You can even seek recommendations from dispensary staff after revealing your expectations. You do not have that luxury in several other settings where these products may be sold because of their legality.
As for online purchases, thoroughly going over product reviews from credible sources is seriously advised. You should also buy from platforms specifically dedicated to the sale of these products. This is instead of e-commerce platforms that are into the sale of other unrelated products, as well.
Conclusion
Consider several factors to purchase and use the right hemp flower products. This discussion covers some of these factors, which should largely inform your choice.
