HomeLifestyleWhat's the Difference Between CBD vs. THC?

What’s the Difference Between CBD vs. THC?

You’ve probably heard by now about all the health benefits of cannabis. And thanks to all those benefits many countries all over the world are slowly starting to legalize many different cannabis products.

You may or may not be aware, that you can legally buy cannabis seeds in Australia for novelty purposes such as souvenirs, seed bank storage, body care products, natural remedies, etc.

So, this is one of many reasons why it’s only natural that people are starting to be curious about hemp, marijuana, its products, and so much more.

One such curiosity includes the difference between CBD and THC. If you’re amongst those curious about these two natural compounds that can be found in cannabis, keep on reading because we’re going to uncover all the differences and benefits of both CBD and THC.

What is CBD?

Let’s first start by saying that cannabis is a plant that can make a substance full of compounds called cannabinoids. CBD or cannabidiol is one such chemical compound that can be found and extracted from hemp and marijuana. And hemp and marijuana are both a part of the Cannabis sativa plant.

When derived from the hemp part of the plant, CBD contains traces of THC, and when CBD is extracted from marijuana, it can contain even more THC.

What is THC?

Just like CBD, THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is also a compound found in cannabis. It’s also the main psychoactive ingredient found in the plant. As such, when consumed, THC causes people to feel high and euphoric.

THC can be smoked, it can also be found in many cannabis products such as oils, capsules, tinctures, edibles, and so on.

The main differences between CBD and THC

When it comes to the main differences between these two compounds, what we know so far is that CBD is typically sourced from hemp and it doesn’t produce any highs when used, meaning it isn’t psychoactive. While THC is extracted from marijuana and is psychoactive.

Chemical structures of CBD and THC

Both of these compounds can affect a system that plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis, also known as the endocannabinoid system. This system is connected with processes such as memory, fertility, mood, sleep, and appetite, however, the extent of this connection is still being researched.

These substances can easily interact with our cannabinoid receptors because both CBD and THC have a similar molecular structure to our endocannabinoid systems. When this interaction happens, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters in our brains. And neurotransmitters relay messages between our cells and play a big role in pain, stress, sleep, and so on.

On a molecular level, CBD and THC are completely the same – 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. However, there are differences in how these molecules are arranged and that’s why they have different effects on our systems.

Benefits and side-effects of CBD and THC

When it comes to the medical benefits of these two substances – it must be said that the research is still in its early stages, however, there are indications that they may be helpful to people suffering from epilepsy, glaucoma, anxiety, pain, MS, IBS and IBD, sleep difficulties, opioid dependence and even some symptoms of AIDS.

It also must be said that while both of these substances can have similar effects and are used to treat the same or similar illnesses, CBD is significantly more used to alleviate anxiety, depression, seizures, migraines, inflammation, and PTSD.

TBC, on the other hand, is largely associated with the alleviation and treatment of glaucoma, nausea, insomnia, pain, tremors, and poor appetite.

So far, very few side effects have been related to both CBD and THC. But just like with any medication, some unwanted effects may still appear. What is known is that those side effects include drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, changes in mood and appetite. THC can also cause dry mouth, increased heart rate, and memory loss.

How to consume CBD and THC

If you’re interested in CBD and THC products, you should know that they can be consumed in several ways. You can consume THC as marijuana by smoking it, you can also consume it as oils, tinctures, vape products, sprays, and so on.

You can use CBD oils as body care products such as lotions and salves. Additionally, these oils can also be formulated for vaping. CBD can also be consumed orally as a tincture, spray, oil, capsule, and other edible products such as beverages and candies.

And there you have all the main differences between CBD and THC. If you’re planning to consume either of these substances, make sure you check your country’s laws to ensure that using them is legal. Also, be careful if you combine these substances with any medication, as they can affect how medications are metabolized by your body.

RELATED ARTICLES

Most Popular