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CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

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With the growing popularity of medicinal marijuana comes a greater interest in learning about the differences between THC and CBD, the two main active ingredients in the plant. We can more successfully traverse the world of medicinal cannabis and make wise judgments about its usage by exploring the special qualities and potentials of THC and CBD.

More than 113 cannabinoids have been identified in cannabis. THC and CBD are two chemical substances isolated from cannabis. In recent years, research into cannabis’s possible therapeutic effects and advantages has gained momentum. These two cannabinoids have received a lot of attention recently.

This article will explain the difference between THC and CBD.

What Is CBD?

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Cannabidiol, more often known as CBD, is the cannabis plant’s second most abundant chemical ingredient. CBD is gaining popularity as a safe and effective alternative therapy for a variety of health issues. Both hemp and marijuana may be used to produce it. CBD obtained from hemp still has tiny quantities of THC, whereas CBD derived from marijuana may have higher THC concentrations.You can buy CBDfx THC Oil online from their official website.

What Is THC?

The major psychoactive component of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is claimed that THC causes the brain to produce dopamine, which then stimulates the brain’s reward system.

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter in the regulation of mood and reward. THC produces its euphoric effects by stimulating a greater-than-average discharge of dopamine. Although THC is available in various forms, including capsules, edibles, and oils, it is most often consumed in the form of smoked marijuana.

Types of CBD and THC

CBD and THC come in a variety of forms. Let’s know about them.

Different types of CBD include:

  • Whole plant CBD: Made entirely from hemp chemicals, but sometimes too thick for everyday usage.
  • Full spectrum CBD: Lacks the waxes and oils found in CBD derived from the entire plant and instead contains trace amounts of THC.
  • Broad spectrum CBD: Has various cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids but no THC.
  • Pure CBD (isolate): Zero THC and zero additional compounds, only CBD.

Different types of THC include:

  • THC-a: This is the original form of THC found in cannabis and the one from which all others are derived. It has no intoxicating properties at all.
  • Delta 9 THC: This not only helps reduce physical stress and stimulates hunger but is also responsible for marijuana’s signature euphoric effects.
  • Delta 8 THC: It’s estimated to be 50% as psychoactive as delta 9, yet it only makes up about 1% of the cannabis plant.
  • THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol): Medical advantages are unclear; however, it is reported to be around 33% more powerful than delta 9.
  • THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin): This does not bind to receptors as well. It may be psychotropic in high dosages but not low ones.

Differences between CBD and THC

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The following are some key differences between CBD and THC:

CBD vs. THC: Psychoactive Properties

The primary distinction between CBD and THC is that CBD is not psychoactive and hence does not lead to the high that THC produces. CBD may mitigate the euphoric effects of THC. Anxiety and pain are two of the many symptoms that CBD may help alleviate. Patients with epilepsy may also benefit from its usage.

However, THC is psychotropic and responsible for the characteristic high experienced by cannabis consumers. THC, like CBD, is thought to have medicinal properties, including decreasing pain and nausea. Its psychoactive properties mean it may make some people quite nervous and paranoid. The quality of THC products varies widely. For example, whereas DELTA-9 is a classic version of THC, DELTA-8 is gentler and less prone to elicit feelings of paranoia due to its lower potency.

CBD vs. THC: Chemical Structure

Both CBD and THC share a chemical structure with endogenous cannabinoids found in the human body. Endocannabinoids are brain chemicals that affect other nerve cells. Chemical molecules called neurotransmitters transfer impulses between neurons. Sleep, pain, hunger, mood, and even the immune system all rely on them in various ways.

CBD and THC have the same chemical structure, but their unique effects result from subtle changes in the way these molecules are organized. They achieve their effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors in a manner similar to that of endogenous cannabinoids.

CBD vs. THC: Sources

Although both hemp and marijuana are capable of producing CBD, the latter is more often used since it allows for a smaller quantity of THC to be added during the extraction process. However, marijuana is the source of THC.

CBD derived from marijuana may have higher levels of THC, making it less desirable for those who want to avoid the psychoactive effects of the drug. For example, the THC content of certain cannabis-derived CBD products may exceed the amount listed on the packaging.

CBD vs. THC: Legality

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CBD products derived from hemp are legal to sell in the United States as of a 2018 change to the Controlled Substances Act, so long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. More than half of the states in the United States already permit the sale of CBD products. There is far less oversight on the market for CBD products now than there was in the past. The local authorities should be consulted before making any major acquisitions.

The federal government and many individual states still see THC products as illegal. Only eleven states have legalized cannabis for recreational use, while another thirty-three have legalized its medical usage. Additionally, CBD and delta-8 THC derived from hemp and containing less than the legal limit of 0.3% THC are approved at the federal level.

Conclusion

Although both CBD and THC originate from the cannabis plant, there is a significant difference between the two. CBD and THC are both effective in reducing anxiety and stress, elevating mood, and alleviating pain; however, CBD lacks the euphoric effects of THC. CBD comes in a variety of forms. Some may contain minute amounts of THC, so it’s important to know what you’re taking. The more you learn about CBD and THC, the more equipped you will be to decide which is better for you.

Written by Kan Dail