Written by Two of the major natural compounds found in cannabis plant are THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol, and CBD, Cannabidiol. The chemical composition and derivation of both these cannabinoids are very similar, but these cannabinoids are very different from each other. To all those who are confused about the differences between THC and CBD, this article will provide you with some basic insights on significant differences between both these cannabinoids and which one among these is entirely safe to consume.
Table of Contents
Psychoactive effects: Differences between CBD and THC
One of the major differences between THC and CBD is their psychoactive component. THC is the cannabinoid that is responsible for inducing high or getting you stoned. It is the main compound found in marijuana plant and is psychoactive in nature.
THC directly interacts with the CB1 receptors found in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the brain and the central nervous system and results in a euphoric feeling that you get after consuming it.
On the other hand, CBD does not makes you high as it is non-psychoactive. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and hemp contains the least amount of THC, so it does not make one high. CBD does not interact directly with the CB1 receptors thus causing no high at all. It indirectly interacts with the ECS. So, CBD is considered as an antagonist of CB1 receptors.
Medical Applications: CBD vs THC
Both CBD and THC have various medical benefits and uses. THC is mostly used for its euphoric properties as it induces a high while consumed. It is used for relaxing and pain-relieving benefits. CBD, on the other hand, is used to treat health issues such as arthritis, anxiety, epilepsy, OCD, Autism and more. Let’s find this out in detail.
THC is used for:
Providing relaxation and euphoria
Mostly for recreational purposes
Stimulate appetite
Pain-Killer
Relaxes Muscles
Sleeping and drowsiness
CBD is used for:
Treating Anxiety
Treating Inflammation
As a painkiller
Treating Epilepsy
Treating Parkinson’s and OCD
Legal Status: CBD vs THC
The legal status of both these cannabinoids is different. While THC and marijuana have strict legal status in some states, the legal status of CBD depends on the laws of the state.
THC is listed explicitly in the U.S. Controlled Substances Act and thus is prohibited under the federal law. Whereas CBD is legally available in all the 50 states of the U.S., provided it is derived from hemp plant due to its non-psychoactive properties. In some states, CBD is used for both recreational as well as medicinal purposes while in some it is just confined to medicinal purposes. But it is completely legal, unlike THC.
Side effects: CBD vs THC
The side effects of THC can be temporary such as:
Impaired memory
Increased heart rate
Red eyes
Dry mouth
Lung Issues
Reduced reaction times
These side effects are major because of the psychoactive properties of the compound.
CBD, on the other hand, is well tolerated even if consumed in large doses. Research shows that CBD does not cause any side effects and the side effects addressed are usually due to the drug-to-drug interactions of CBD with other drugs.
Working: CBD vs THC
Both these cannabinoids work differently with the body. THC has a direct impact on the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the Endocannabinoid system of the body while CBD indirectly creates an effect on them.
The binding nature of THC with the CB1 receptors stimulates and causes various effects. As a result, you will feel a general relaxation, relief from pain and a euphoric like feeling.
Whereas, CBD does not directly bind the CB1 and CB2 receptors. In indirectly interacts with them thus providing relief in many body functions. CBD can also increase the levels of endocannabinoids in the body, providing various therapeutic benefits.
Composition: CBD vs THC
Both these cannabinoids are found in abundance in Hemp and Marijuana plants respectively. When it comes to Marijuana, THC dominates most of the plant’s chemical concentration. Marijuana is known for its THC concentrations and the effects that THC has on the body. The high that is felt is just because of the THC content present. The composition of THC can be, approximately, up to 12 % in marijuana strains.
CBD dominates the chemical concentrations of Hemp plant. Hemp contains CBD in abundance and only 0.3 percent of THC, so it does not make you high.
Final Thoughts
Thus, CBD and THC are two different cannabinoids that come from the same plant. It is essential to know the major differences between these two cannabinoids in order to decide the right one for yourself. We hope you enjoyed this article on the differences between CBD and THC. Let us know your suggestions in the comment section below. Thanks for reading ?
