THC vs CBD: What You Need to Know

With the legalization of cannabis in several states of the United States of America, people are increasingly becoming more curious about their options. Cannabis, a plant species that has taken the market by a storm, has two major compounds, namely tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

CBD is found in both marijuana and hemp. However, it is found in abundance in hemp plants. On the other hand, marijuana plants contain high concentrations of THC.

Both of the compounds can interact with the endocannabinoid system present in the body to result in different effects.

Molecular Structures

Though both the compounds have the same molecular structure, there is a difference in the way the atoms are arranged, which ultimately results in different effects.

As THC and CBD are chemically similar to the endocannabinoids in our body, both the compounds can interact with the cannabinoid receptors easily. The interaction results in the release of neurotransmitters that transmit messages to cells regarding sleep, stress, immune function, pain, and so on.

Psychoactive Components

The most notable difference between both the compounds is the fact that THC is a psychoactive compound, while CBD isn’t. Therefore, CBD does not cause the “high” most people experience after consuming THC.

THC is known to bind with the CB1 receptors, which results in a sense of euphoria. As CBD binds weakly to the CBD1 receptors, it not only doesn’t result in the “high” but also interferes with the THC binding to reduce its psychoactive effects.

Legality

The laws related to cannabis production and consumption is evolving with every passing year in the United States. As THC and marijuana are mentioned in the list of controlled substances, they aren’t legal federally.

However, specific states like Washington D.C. have passed laws that make high levels of THC and medical marijuana legal. Yet, it has to be prescribed by a healthcare practitioner. Additionally, some states have also made the recreational use of THC and cannabis legal.

States where you can find marijuana for medical and recreational purposes mostly allow the sale of CBD as well.

Before you can buy THC or CBD products, it is essential to understand your state laws in order to avoid legal ramifications. If you reside in a state where the sale of cannabis products is authorized, you must find a trustworthy store. Nowadays, you can even buy these products online. Heavenlyhempflower is one of the premium stores online where you can explore a wide range of cannabis products.

Medical Benefits

The medical benefits of both compounds are quite similar. They can help in the treatment of a variety of conditions. As CBD doesn’t result in the euphoric effects associated with THC, many people prefer using CBD.

In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Epidiolex, the very first prescription medication with CBD for the treatment of very difficult-to-control and rare forms of epilepsy.

There are many health benefits to using CBD. Some of the conditions that can be treated with CBD include–

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Migraines
• Nausea
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Psychosis
• Pain
• Inflammation
• Seizures

On the other hand, THC can also offer many medical benefits. Some of the conditions that you can treat with THC are as follows–

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Low Appetite
• Insomnia
• Glaucoma
• Muscle Spasticity
• Pain

Side Effects

The human body can tolerate CBD pretty well, even if it is in high doses. Research has indicated that the side effects resulting from the use of CBD are due to drug-to-drug interactions.

Some of the side effects associated with the use of THC are mentioned below–

• Memory Loss
• Slower Reaction Times
• Red Eyes
• Dry Mouth
• Coordination Problems
• Increased Heart Rate

These side effects are a result of the psychoactive properties of THC. It is important to note that both the compounds aren’t fatal. However, when THC is consumed in high quantities, it can result in long-term adverse psychological effects. It is particularly true for adolescents.

As the brain of a teenager is still developing, high exposure to THC could increase the risk of developing schizophrenia, according to a research study.

Method of Administration

With the cannabis market on its rise, you will be able to find a plethora of options in CBD and THC products.

CBD is found in many different forms, such as–

• Oils
• Gummies
• Supplements
• Gels
• Similarly, THC is also available in many forms. They include–
• Capsules
• Edibles
• Tinctures
• Oils
• Smokable Products

Drug Testing

CBD and THC are cannabinoids that end up in the fat reservoirs of the body. Therefore, they can show up in a 5 panel drug screen even after a couple of days of usage. All drug tests cannot detect CBD, but you will find CBD-sensitive tests in the market as well. Most of the drug tests are designed to loom for chemicals, including THC.

Closing Thoughts

THC and CBD are two primary cannabinoids that are found in cannabis. Hemp plants contain a high concentration of CBD and trace amounts of THC, while it’s the opposite in marijuana plants.

Both the compounds that be useful in treating similar health conditions, but the difference lies in the psychoactive effects. THC makes a person “high,” which isn’t the same with CBD. Therefore, people prefer using either of the compounds of their unique effects.

It is important to note that both the substances are illegal federally and have only be approved for recreational and medicinal purposes in specific states. If you plan on using them, you should be clear about the laws in your country.