The classical distinction between Cannabis sativa (hemp) and Cannabis indica (marijuana) as two separate species is difficult today due to long-term intensive hybridization, so most researchers today present a classification of hemp based on chemotype. This versatile plant is used as a medicine, food, for fiber production, bioremediation, but also as a narcotic drug. The lack of uniformity of the legal framework made it difficult to research these plants. With growing public support for researchers of medical marijuana and interest in the use of industrial hemp, experts have faced the consequences of years of stagnation in research into this culture - the genetic background of this species was largely unknown. Due to its wide applications, hemp is a culture of interest to scientists and in recent years there has been a rapid development of molecular tools that will contribute to the acquisition of new knowledge about this culture in order to fully exploit its potential. Access to new omika technologies, combined with less restrictive rules, promises further momentum in genomic research and advances in cannabis breeding.