Hemp Buds Explained: Everything You Need to Know

With the sudden upsurge in popularity, hemp buds have seen an enormous demand growth since the 2018 Farm Bill‘s passing. Several people are now buying hemp buds for their therapeutic benefits.

Sadly, a lot of people still confuse hemp buds with cannabis buds. If you’re one of these people, don’t feel inadequate – even our own government still seems to have misconceptions in distinguishing the two plants. Despite the legalization, government policies surrounding hemp growth and use are still tight and financial institutions are still not willing to offer any funding to hemp farmers.

In this detailed blog, we’ll discuss the basics of hemp buds, review how hemp buds are used in various ways, its effects, and tackle many other frequently asked questions.

What are Hemp Buds?

Hemp buds are produced from flowering hemp plants when they reach full bloom. They develop in clumps and contain the largest concentration of terpenes and cannabinoids. It also contains less than 0.3% THC, meaning it doesn’t produce an intoxicating high.

Hemp Buds vs. Marijuana Buds: Know the Difference

If you’re not an expert, it will be difficult for you to distinguish hemp buds from other cannabis buds as they’re virtually alike.

The only indisputable way to identify your buds is to get them examined in a lab. However, you can also use the following methods to try and distinguish the two:

Method 1: Checking Out the Chemical Composition

• THC Concentration: If you’re at a dispensary, inquire about the THC concentration. If they have less than 0.3% THC concentration in them, they’re likely hemp buds.
• CBD Concentration: Hemp buds usually have a high CBD concentration. So, if there’s more than 20% CBD concentration in the buds, they’re likely hemp buds.

Method 2: Checking for Physical Attributes

• Inspect for Small, Crystallized Hairs: If the buds have many trichomes (tiny crystallized hairs that grow on the outside of the cannabis flowers) or look frosty, there’s a high probability that they’re hemp buds.
• Inspect the Shade: Although both cannabis and hemp buds are mainly green, hemp buds usually have a slight purple or red shade while the other has a dark purple shade.
• Inspect the Flowering Plant for Skinny Leaves: If you can see the bud’s flowering plant, examine the leaves. If you find leaves with 5 to 9 clustered leaflets, the bud is likely a cannabis bud. However, if the leaves are slim, spindly, and serrated, the bud is probably a hemp bud.

Are there Different Strains of Hemp Buds?

Yes. In fact, there are different strains of hemp flowers.

One of the main distinguishing factors between hemp strains is their terpene profile (or its aromatic qualities). Currently, there are over 100 unique terpenes discovered, each with a unique flavor. When combined with other lesser-known cannabinoids, terpenes are known to create an entourage effect that enhances the efficacy of CBG and CBD.

When looking at the different hemp flower strains, always consider the terpene profile. Some have bold flavors of cheese, skunk, or gasoline, while others come with floral and fruity notes.

Can I Smoke Hemp Buds?

Yes. You can grind up the hemp bud and roll up a hemp spliff or use a tobacco pipe to smoke.

What are the Effects of Taking Hemp Buds?

If you never used it before, you’ll probably question the effects of hemp buds after taking it. Since hemp buds contain small traces of THC (which provides the ‘high’ effect), you’re likely to get a relaxed feeling that won’t space you out but keep your mind clear. Hence, the degree in which you experience this feeling depends on your strain and how much hemp you use.

What are the Benefits of Hemp Buds?

Here are some of the most significant advantages of using hemp buds:

1. Lowers Blood Pressure

Hemp buds can help prevent various health conditions by lowering high blood pressure. This is especially beneficial for boosting the heart and circulatory system.

2. Assists You to Quit Smoking

Hemp buds reduce cigarette cravings, thus assisting people in quitting smoking. For the best results, ensure you use hemp buds strains with bold smoky flavors.

3. Reduces Inflammation

Hemp buds naturally contain cannabinoids and terpenes that work with the endocannabinoid system to boost the body’s natural ability to heal and reduce inflammation by modulating its inflammatory response.

4. Helps Maintain Clear Skin

Hemp buds contain nutrients and vitamins such as amino acids that help the skin generate collagen and elastin, keeping it moisturized and reducing wrinkles.

5. Helps Reduce Moods and Anxiety

CBD present in hemp buds can interact with receptors in the brain to help people fall asleep fast and wake up feeling more refreshed.

Are Hemp Buds Legal in the United States?

Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp buds are legal in all 50 states of the U.S., as long as the THC content is not higher than 0.3%. In other countries, all types of cannabis are legal, in most yet to be legalized.

However, CBD laws are quickly changing as most people learn about their benefits. So you should be on the lookout on the legal status of hemp buds in your state and country.

Where to Buy Hemp Buds

In the current hemp market, there are several legit and licensed hemp bud sellers including hemp dispensaries and online hemp stores. If you’re buying online, you’ll need to check for authentic reviews of the seller and their products. You can do this by reading their reviews on an independent website.

It is also essential to get your hemp bud from reliable producers or growers who provide third-party lab results from where you can see the bud’s THC and CBD concentrations. If your producers meet all these qualifications, you can rest assured that you’re buying safe, effective hemp buds that will help you attain the benefits you’re looking for.

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