Cannabis’s possible health impacts and advantages have sparked increased interest recently. Cannabinoids, which are chemical components found in cannabis, number over 113. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two cannabis-derived chemical substances. Much of the focus has been on these two cannabinoids.
This desire is anticipated to rise as more states legalize cannabis and marijuana products. Various products containing CBD, THC, or both have arisen to alleviate conditions such as stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness. To comprehend these drugs’ adverse effects and possible advantages, it is necessary first to comprehend the distinctions between CBD and THC.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, sometimes known as CBD, is the second most common chemical ingredient discovered in cannabis. CBD, which was discovered in the 1940s, has recently gained popularity as a natural therapy for various diseases. It can be generated from hemp or marijuana. THC is still present at microscopic levels in hemp-derived CBD, although marijuana-derived CBD may include more.
What Are THC?
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive element in cannabis. THC triggers the brain’s reward system by activating the production of the brain’s chemical dopamine, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that influences mood and pleasure. THC induces feelings of pleasure by causing a higher-than-normal release of dopamine. THC is commonly consumed via smoking marijuana, although it may also be obtained in capsules, sweets, and oils.
Difference Between CBD and THC
THC and CBD significantly impact the endocannabinoid systems, which is essential for maintaining homeostasis. Although researchers are still trying to understand the intricacies, they know that this complex system is connected to functions like memory, hunger, and sleep.
While they both have similarities, they also have some significant distinctions.
Psychoactive Qualities
CBD and THC have various effects on different brain receptors. As a result, CBD does not usually have psychoactive effects—that is, it will not make you high.
THC, on the other hand, has psychotropic properties. It is the compound that produces the high that people associate with marijuana.
Chemical Composition
They share a chemical structure with the body’s natural endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that affect the brain.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the body that convey impulses between nerve cells. They are involved in various processes, including sleep, pain, hunger, mood, and the immune system.
CBD and THC have identical basic structures, but the way these molecules are organized causes variances in their effects. They attach to receptors and generate various actions in the body by imitating endocannabinoids.
Sources
While CBD may be generated from either hemp or marijuana, it is more commonly derived from hemp to prevent the addition of higher levels of THC. THC, on the other hand, is a component of marijuana.
CBD derived from marijuana may include higher THC, which may not be suitable for those attempting to avoid THC. For example, CBD products derived from cannabis may contain more THC than the label indicates.
The Potential Benefits of CBD and THC Together
While research into THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids’ potential health benefits is still in its early stages, there is evidence that these compounds may be beneficial for illnesses such as:
- Epilepsy
- Anxiety
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS Symptoms
- Pain
- Opioid addiction
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (IBS)
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) (IBD)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Sleeping problems
- Disorders of movement
While they both have comparable effects and are frequently used to treat many of the same conditions, there are significant distinctions.
THC, which may be supplied as medicinal marijuana, can be used to treat a variety of illnesses. It might be beneficial for situations such as:
- Glaucoma
- Insomnia
- It may help alleviate nausea caused by cancer therapy.
- Arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraine headaches are all illnesses that cause pain.
- Appetite difficulties, especially those caused by cancer treatment
- Tremors
The Adverse Effects
According to a particular study, both are typically harmless and have few adverse effects.
However, just though these medications appear to be harmless does not mean that you will not suffer any adverse side effects. Some of the negative impacts that have been documented include:
- Mood and appetite swings
- Drowsiness
- Anxiety or other mood fluctuations
- Dizziness and nausea
- THC usage can also cause unpleasant side effects like increased heart rate, dry mouth, and memory loss.
Marijuana has a range of short- and long-term negative consequences, including reduced short-term memory, poor judgment, and impaired coordination. Marijuana may potentially disrupt brain development and contribute to cognitive impairment.
THC also affects the hippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex, according to NIDA. These brain regions are critical for creating new memories and the capacity to shift attention from one object to the next. This impairs a person’s capacity to learn and build new memories and makes challenging activities harder to complete.
Their Legality
When selecting CBD or THC-containing products, examining their legality is vital. Marijuana and THC are both legal in the United States. They are not authorized under federal law because of the Controlled Substances Act. As of July 2020, 33 states and the District of Columbia have approved regulations enabling doctors to prescribe medicinal marijuana and THC-containing medicines. Some states also allow marijuana and THC-containing products to be used recreationally.
Although CBD in some forms is legal in most jurisdictions, the specifics of any THC or CBD product’s legality might differ from state to state. Several states have also legalized the recreational use of marijuana and THC.
Which Should You Choose?
The desired results may determine the product you select. CBD may give advantages without the adverse side effects associated with THC if you attempt to reduce stress or sleep better, for example. THC may be a better option for symptoms or disorders where the drug is beneficial, such as tremors or low appetite.
Some evidence shows that when CBD is consumed together with THC, the potential medicinal benefits of the two cannabinoids are enhanced.4 This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect.
Taking CBD alongside THC has also been proven to help lessen some of the adverse effects of THC. One research, for example, shows that CBD may be able to mitigate some of the harmful cognitive consequences of regular cannabis users.
People who use cannabis, particularly those with high THC levels, may be more likely to have mental symptoms such as paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis. On the other hand, studies have shown CBD to help reduce these effects.
In one study, CBD was found to help inhibit some of THC’s possible mental effects. According to the study’s authors, such findings have significant consequences for the usage of cannabis products. People who are sensitive to unpleasant side effects, for example, may be able to reap the potential health advantages by sticking to products with low THC and high CBD levels.
Key Takeaway
THC or CBD may have a lot of advantages, but you should always see your doctor before using any products containing these cannabinoids. They both potentially ease symptoms and even address some physical and mental health disorders, but research in this field is still in its early stages, and more studies need to be done.
Visit Altitude Organic Cannabis Today
CBD and THC both have medicinal use. They’re also deemed safe, although the likelihood of adverse effects and medication combinations is kept in mind. Before using cannabis or CBD, consult with your doctor or a trained cannabis or CBD clinician. You should also verify the laws of your state before you purchase a THC or CBD product. This will ensure that they are legal in your area.
If you are looking to experience the wonderful benefits of THC or CBD, it’s best to visit Altitude Organic Cannabis. Our Frisco dispensary features a wide array of top-shelf CBD and THC products, as well as edibles and cannabis strains. To learn more about our goods, please contact us immediately.
