CBD vs THC: What’s the difference?
Understanding the two important components of Cannabis – CBD and THC will help know it better. Today marijuana is creating a revolution in the area of medical science. Researchers have been connecting the use of marijuana as a cure for some diseases and conditions which has been a ground-breaking revelation so far. But before taking any decisions about incorporating it into your daily life or even growing indoor marijuana, understanding the constituent will help you know which products will be of use for your particular purpose.
The Difference
CBD or cannabidiol is the component that does not induce a high in a person after usage whereas THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol does. At a molecular level, the two components share the same formula, yet their effects are quite different. Ever expanding cannabis market is bringing questions in the customer’s mind about understanding the purpose of various strains and products.
CBD: This was among the first cannabinoids discovered by scientists and has been the focus of medical research for a few years now. This has non-psychoactive effects and hence is even available in certain states where marijuana has not been legalized. Various therapeutic benefits of marijuana are often linked to being delivered by CBD, increasing the availability of many commercial products such as oils. CBD is a component that tends to enhance the amount of energy in your body and also has antibiotic properties.
THC: The euphoric feeling of “high” has attracted users across the world to consume cannabis for recreational purposes. THC is the cannabinoid that produces this effect in cannabis. Although this does not work independently to produce this effect, the concentration of THC is significantly higher than the rest. THC is the component that is desired to create cognitive and psychological effects on the human body; it is also widely used in the medical field. THC is an effective way of inducing sleep and causing a relaxed and calm feeling.
Healing Properties of CBD vs THC
CBD is currently being used to treat various conditions by Jacksonville Medical Marijuana Doctors. CBD oils and CBD living water have been widely used as pain relief as it directly impacts the endocannabinoid receptors in our body. This reduces the inflammation on the site. This effect is particularly useful in alleviating discomfort from chronic pain.
The use of CBD to treat anxiety and depression has shown a positive result in various cases. A study among people suffering from social anxiety aimed to observe the effect of CBD. This group received CBD on a regular and moderated basis showed lower anxiety levels, discomfort in speech performance and cognitive impairment in comparison to the placebo group. CBD has also been an effective way of controlling and maintaining blood pressure which has been the leading cause of heart failures and strokes. FDA has also approved the cannabidiol-based medication, Epidiolex, to treat seizures related to Dravet’s Syndrome. The frequency and intensity of the seizures lowered significantly after usage.
While THC cannot compare to the medical benefits of CBD, there are certain conditions which require the psychoactive properties of the substance as a part of the treatment. THC has been observed to be useful for alleviating chronic pain, boosting mood, and relieving stress. However, the desired effect will depend on the dosage and the chemical profile of the particular cultivar.
Therapeutic benefits
Recreational consumers usually look for marijuana with high THC content to enjoy the euphoric high. This gives a more body focused high compared to products which contain CBD oils. Well, this does not apply to all because various users tend to look for CBD products also. Cannabidiol can have a relaxing and calming effect on the body and help remove both physical and mental pain by elevating their mood. A combination of both components will help individual enjoy a pleasurable high from the THC while soaking in the therapeutic effect on the body caused by CBD.
Is it a battle?
CBD vs THC cannot be used to conclude one as a superior component over the other. In fact, understanding the benefits of each individually help us dig deep into knowing about the magic they can create together. The two substances compliment the effects of each other and help reduce the negative effects that could be induced by either. The “entourage effect” or the effect of the two cannabinoids sharing a cooperative relationship can bring blissful effects to the body and mind. With this knowledge, you can purchase the right strains and products from licensed medical marijuana dispensaries to enjoy the benefits of cannabis.
By: Kathy K. Cooley
About the author –
Kathy has been closely studying the cannabis industry trends from quite some time. Intrigued by the booming growth of this sector, she takes interest in penning down her views providing quality insight on current marijuana trends, particularly medical cannabis. She co-authored Supercharge Organic Traffic: A popular course focusing on Organic Traffic for Ecommerce.