THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids. They both provide wellness benefits, but THC has been in use for a while longer than CBD. THC-rich cannabis has been in use for centuries due to the famous “high” effect, but CBD has taken the market by storm in recent years for its many health benefits. However, CBD is gaining popularity among users, with manufacturers offering it in various forms, including oil, edibles, topicals, and vape. It is essential to understand the differences between CBD vs THC to know which products to use and the effects to expect. In that regard, below is a guide to help distinguish the two cannabinoids. It covers their chemical composition, benefits, legality, and wellness benefits for users.
CBD and THC: A Quick Overview
CBD and THC are the most popular cannabinoids in cannabis plants, which have more than 100 cannabinoids. Besides, the two components are one of the most researched compounds. Industrial hemp and marijuana are cannabis plants, but their CBD and THC levels differ. Hemp is rich in CBD and has only 0.3% THC or less. On the other hand, marijuana has higher THC levels. Some strains can have as much as 30% THC. Note that THC is the cannabinoid that makes people high. That is why marijuana leaves users stoned.
Chemical Structures
CBD and THC consist of the same chemical makeup, but their atom arrangements vary. That is why the two components affect the human body differently. Nevertheless, both cannabinoids are beneficial if used correctly.
CBD
CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it is vastly found in the hemp trees. Its chemical structure allows it to provide bodily effects that support overall wellbeing. However, this hemp derivative is used to alleviate physical and mental discomforts. It interacts with the human body to improve its performance in regulating various functions. Organic CBD is safe as it is free of herbicides, pesticides, and artificial fertilizers. You can use CBD in a variety of ways, such as oil, gummies, creams, vape, and capsules, which enhances convenience.
THC
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, and marijuana strains are rich in THC. That is why they make people high. THC is used for medical and recreational benefits. It interacts with the body differently from CBD and alters mental functioning as well. THC is psychoactive and intoxicating, so you cannot use it at any time.
Does CBD Make You High?
CBD does not make users high. As mentioned earlier, THC is the cannabinoid that leaves people stoned. Besides, hemp contains only 0.3% of THC, an amount that is too low to cause intoxication. Therefore, even full-spectrum CBD products do not make you high. Additionally, you cannot overdose on CBD. However, that does not mean you consume CBD in whichever amounts you like. If you have never used cannabidiol before, start with a low concentration and increase it gradually if need be to get the relief you need.
How They Interact with the Human Body
CBD and THC interact differently with the human body to cause varying effects. However, the two cannabinoids have some benefits in common. That being said, THC interacts directly with endocannabinoid receptors in your body, causing a psychoactive outcome. On the other hand, CBD stimulates the endocannabinoid system to enhance its functioning for your wellbeing. However, preliminary studies have shown CBD to counteract the intoxicating effect of THC.
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which has receptors in various organs, including the skin. The system regulates functions such as pain, mood, sleep, appetite, and immunity responses. Your body usually makes its own cannabinoids to control these roles. However, plants like hemp and marijuana contain cannabinoids too, which affect the human body in different ways.
Benefits Involving CBD and THC
Despite interacting differently with the human body, CBD and THC have several common benefits. For example, both cannabinoids alleviate pain. Whether you are dealing with joint pain, migraines, cancer pain, or backache, CBD and THC could help ease the discomfort. However, research has shown THC to work better for pain. Aside from using hemp oil drops oil, you can also go for CBD edibles that include mouthwatering gummies. If you have muscle soreness or joint aches, CBD infused pain cream provides targeted relief to the affected area.
CBD and THC can also help with inflammation, a condition that causes serious health problems. The anti-inflammatory properties prevent inflammation from getting worse and foster your general wellbeing. They alleviate conditions like arthritis to support mobility and enhance comfort among patients.
You can also use CBD and THC for anxiety. CBD provides calming effects that help users calm down when anxious. It also has relaxing benefits that help with stress to ensure mental wellness. However, if you use THC for anxiety, ensure you consume a low dosage. High THC levels can worsen anxiety and cause paranoia. If you have been diagnosed with anxiety, consult your doctor before using THC and even CBD to get guidance on dosage and proper use.
Insomnia afflicts many, and CBD and THC can assist. For starters, CBD has calming and relaxing benefits that soothe you to sleep. It also alleviates anxiety, stress, and pain, conditions that make it difficult to fall asleep. On the other hand, THC can have sedating effects to help users fall asleep faster and get the rest they need.
Legal Factors to Consider
CBD is legal federally after the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. Hemp with 0.3% THC or less and its derivatives are permitted at the federal level. However, many states have legalized CBD products, but some are yet to do the same. That is why you should always check state laws before starting to travel with CBD products on a different jurisdiction consisting different rules to avoid trouble with local law enforcement. On the contrary, THC is legal in some states but is still illegal under federal law. Ensure you buy CBD and THC products from reliable brands to safeguard your health and get the wellness benefits you need.
Summary
CBD and THC are beneficial cannabinoids. Although they interact with the human body differently, they both offer relief for conditions like pain, anxiety, and insomnia. They are available in different forms and potencies to match varying user needs. If you are on prescription drugs or have a health condition, you should see a doctor before using CBD and THC products. Otherwise, you do not need a prescription to use these cannabinoids. Various leading brands offer CBD and THC products online for customers to consider using.