Cannabis vs. Marijuana: What’s the Difference?
The words “cannabis” and “marijuana” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not exactly the same. As Maine’s trusted medical marijuana dispensary in Kittery, we often hear customers ask: What’s the difference between cannabis and marijuana—and does it even matter?
Let’s clear the air.
The Scientific Side: What is Cannabis?
“Cannabis” is the scientific name of a plant genus that includes several species and strains, including:
Cannabis sativa
Cannabis indica
Cannabis ruderalis
These plants naturally produce compounds called cannabinoids—the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
So technically, all marijuana is cannabis, but not all cannabis is marijuana.
So, What is Marijuana Then?
“Marijuana” refers specifically to cannabis plants with high levels of THC, the compound responsible for psychoactive effects (the “high”). In contrast, hemp refers to cannabis plants with less than 0.3% THC.
The term marijuana became more widely used in the 20th century, often in the context of laws and regulations. It’s still used in many legal documents—including Maine’s Medical Marijuana Act.
The Legal Language in Maine
Maine uses the term “Medical Marijuana” in most of its official documentation, which is why you’ll see dispensaries like ours describe ourselves as medical marijuana caregivers.
However, professionals in the cannabis industry often prefer the term “cannabis” because:
It’s more scientifically accurate
It avoids outdated stigmas
It reflects the plant's wide therapeutic applications
At Your Green Thumb Caregivers, we use both terms depending on the context—but we always focus on education and patient empowerment.
Why This Matters to Patients
Understanding the terminology helps you become a more informed consumer. When browsing cannabis products at our Kittery dispensary, you’ll see descriptions like:
Cannabis flower
THC-dominant marijuana strain
CBD-rich cannabis tincture
Knowing that these all fall under the umbrella of cannabis can help you confidently choose the right product for your needs.
Cannabis Is More Than Just a “High”
Whether you’re exploring it for anxiety, sleep, inflammation, or chronic pain, medical cannabis offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits. At Your Green Thumb Caregivers, our staff is here to help you navigate your options, from indica flower to CBD tinctures.
Still have questions about cannabis vs. marijuana? Stop by our Kittery dispensary or give us a call. We’re here to educate, support, and help you feel your best—naturally.
