Cannabis is a plant that has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and recreational purposes. It contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, which are responsible for the various effects of cannabis on the human body. Two of the most well-known and researched cannabinoids are THC and CBD. Although both compounds are found in cannabis, they have different effects on the body and mind. In this blog post, we will explore the difference between CBD and THC.
What is THC?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is responsible for the "high" or euphoric feeling that people experience when they consume cannabis. THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and central nervous system, which triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure and reward. THC also affects other parts of the brain, including the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and learning, and the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordination and movement.
THC has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It has been shown to be effective in treating pain, nausea, and vomiting, and can also stimulate appetite. However, THC also has some negative side effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination and judgment. It can also cause dry mouth and red eyes.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is another cannabinoid found in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a "high." Instead, it works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions in the body, including mood, appetite, and pain. CBD has been shown to have a range of potential therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression, relieving pain and inflammation, and improving sleep.
CBD has also been shown to counteract some of the negative side effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia. This is why many cannabis products now contain a balance of CBD and THC.
The difference between CBD and THC
Cannabis has been a subject of much debate in recent years. The plant, which is native to central Asia, has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. However, in modern times, its use has become a controversial topic due to the psychoactive effects of one of its compounds, THC. Recently, another compound found in cannabis, CBD, has gained attention for its potential medicinal benefits, leading to confusion about the difference between the two. In this article, we'll explore the differences between CBD vs THC.
What is THC?
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is responsible for the "high" that people experience when they consume cannabis.
THC has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and analgesic effects. Despite these proven benefits, cannabis products that contain more than 0.3 percent TCH are a Schedule I, federally illegal drugs and can only be obtained in states that have legalized medical or recreational marijuana.
THC flower is the most popular form of marijuana and comes from the sticky or hairy reproductive parts of the female cannabis plant called “trichomes.” Cannabis flower is high in THC and usually smoked or vaped. But other forms of THC can be eaten (edibles), placed under the tongue (sublingual), applied to the skin (topicals), or inserted as suppositories.
How Does THC Work?
THC works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, producing feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception of time.
The effects of THC can vary widely depending on the strain and dosage of cannabis consumed. Some people may experience anxiety or paranoia, while others may feel more creative and social. THC is also known to have medicinal benefits, including pain relief, reducing inflammation, and improving appetite in people with HIV/AIDS and cancer.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is another compound found in cannabis. Unlike THC, it is nonintoxicating compound and does not produce a high. CBD only contains trace amounts (less than 0.3 percent) of THC. Hemp-derived CBD has less than that and is not classified as a Schedule I drug. CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates a variety of functions, including pain, mood, and appetite.
CBD is also believed to have several health benefits. In general, CBD has anticonvulsive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipsychotic, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective effects. CBD reduces depression, and improves sleep. CBD has also been shown to help counteract the high of THC – a plus or minus, depending on the user. CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, and topicals. It is important to be aware that CBD can also interact with other drugs, increasing the risk of side effects as well as interfering with their effectiveness.
The Differences Between CBD and THC
Psychoactive effects: THC is psychoactive and produces a high, while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high.
Legal status: THC is still illegal in many parts of the world, while CBD is legal in most countries.
Medical benefits: THC and CBD have different medicinal benefits. THC is effective in treating pain, nausea, and improving appetite, while CBD is believed to be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and inflammation.
Dosage: The dosage of THC needed to produce the desired effects can vary widely, while CBD is generally used in lower doses.
Side effects: THC is known to produce side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and dry mouth, while CBD is generally well-tolerated and produces few side effects.
What's the difference between CBD high and THC high?
CBD and THC are two compounds found in cannabis with different properties and potential medicinal benefits. THC is psychoactive and produces a high, while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high. THC is effective in treating pain, nausea, and improving appetite, while CBD is believed to be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and inflammation. Understanding the differences between the two is important when deciding which compound to use for various health conditions. However, it is important to note that cannabis is still illegal in many parts of the world and should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional.