hemp

Hemp is a plant in the cannabis family that is used for industrial purposes, and not as a drug. Hemp has many uses, including the manufacture of paper, rope, textiles, and oils.

To limit the potential of misuse, governments often require cannabis plants that are intended to be used as hemp be bred to contain low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, which is the primary intoxicating component of cannabis. In the United States, a THC content of 0.3% or higher is considered to be marijuana and is currently illegal under federal law. Producing hemp in the United States requires governmental approval at the federal, state, or tribal level. See: 7 U.S. Code § 1639o.

Hemp’s legality has varied throughout U.S. history. In the 18th and 19th centuries, hemp was legal, and its production was encouraged because the plant was vital to early industry. However, in the mid-20th century, the production of hemp was banned due to its close association with marijuana as a part of the growing war on drugs. In 2018, hemp production was once again allowed as a part of the Agricultural Improvement Act.

[Last reviewed in April of 2026 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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