CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
Cannabis is a plant that contains over 100 different cannabinoids, two of which are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While these two cannabinoids come from the same plant, they have very different effects on the human body. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between CBD and THC.
What is CBD?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a “high” or alter your state of mind. Instead, it has been shown to have potential medical benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation.
CBD can be derived from both marijuana and hemp, but hemp-derived CBD is legal in most states. CBD products come in various forms, including oils, capsules, creams, and edibles.
What is THC?
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a “high” or alters your state of mind. THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and produces a wide range of effects, including euphoria, altered perception, and increased appetite.
THC is present in both marijuana and hemp, but the concentration is much higher in marijuana. In most states, marijuana is illegal, but some have legalized it for medical or recreational use.
The Differences Between CBD and THC
The main difference between CBD and THC is how they affect the body. CBD does not produce a “high,” while THC does. Here are some of the other key differences between the two cannabinoids:
Legal Status: Hemp-derived CBD is legal in most states, while marijuana-derived CBD and THC are illegal under federal law.
Medicinal Properties: Both CBD and THC have potential medicinal benefits, but they affect the body in different ways. CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and seizures, while THC has been used to treat nausea, pain, and muscle spasticity.
Side Effects: CBD is generally considered safe, with few side effects, while THC can cause side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired driving.
Drug Testing: Most drug tests are designed to detect THC, not CBD. However, some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, which could result in a positive drug test.
Conclusion
While CBD and THC both come from the same plant, they have very different effects on the body. CBD is non-psychoactive and has been shown to have potential medical benefits, while THC produces a “high” and has been used for medicinal purposes as well. It’s important to understand the differences between these two cannabinoids before using any cannabis products.
