CBD and THC. These may be two of the “hottest” acronyms out there, but there is a lot more to both of these than just three letters. While CBD and THC both come from the cannabis plant (Cannabis Sativa, to be exact), they have very different effects once they come into contact with the human brain. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of both CBD and THC, as well as provide a synopsis of the main differences between these two substances that so often get confused for one another.
What’s the Difference Between CBD and THC?
All About CBD
CBD can be derived from both hemp and cannabis and is often consumed in the form of gels, oils, and edibles, though it can also be smoked. Though it may be similar to THC on a molecular level, it famously does not produce a high.
Why Doesn’t CBD Get You High?
The reason why CBD does not produce a high is that, while THC and CBD each react with the same receptors in the brain (cannabinoid 1, or CB1), THC activates them and CBD does not. As a result, instead of creating a high, CBD instead produces a calming effect that many find enjoyable.
What is CBD Used to Treat?
Thanks to this effect, CBD has been at the centre of quite a bit of scientific research in recent years by scientists who are interested in the ways in which this naturally-occurring chemical could help individuals.
As it stands, there is evidence to suggest that CBD could help the following conditions:
- Anxiety and depression
- Epilepsy
- PTSD
- Crohn’s disease
- MS (multiple sclerosis)
- Substance withdrawal
- Migraines
- Nausea
- Psychosis
- Inflammatory disease
- And many more!
All About THC
THC is the more famous cousin of CBD, as it is generally what people are referring to when they talk about marijuana, cannabis, or “weed”. Unlike CBD, THC does have psychoactive abilities, which is why most people will experience some sort of high while under THC’s influence.
Why Does THC Get You High?
When THC binds with the brain’s CB1 receptors, it provides the user with a sense of peace or even euphoria. Although all THC has the power to create a high, its effect can widely vary depending on things like the individual who is under its influence and its strain. Oftentimes, THC is blended with CBD, which helps mute a high that would otherwise be too intense.
What is THC Used to Treat?
Like CBD, THC is often used therapeutically. In fact, it is widely legal for medical use, even in some locales where its recreational use has not been legalized. Those who use THC for treatment are often suffering from:
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Lack of appetite
- Glaucoma
Main Differences Between CBD and THC
CBD and THC are similar enough to be confused with one another, but they are actually quite different. Here is a quick breakdown of the distinction between the two of them:
THC Makes You High, CBD Does Not
We’ve already spoken about this, but it’s worth saying again. CBD does not react with your brain in a way that creates the sensation of being high; THC does.
THC and CBD Have Different Side Effects
Like everything that can have a positive reaction, THC and CBD also have the potential to have side effects that are not nearly as positive. However, the poor side effects of CBD and THC are not created equally. Those with adverse reactions to CBD complain of irregular bowel movements, fatigue, and dizziness, THC can result in an undesirable reduced heart red, bloodshot eyes, anxiety, and even memory loss.
Most Drug Tests (Possibly) Won’t Detect CBD
This is true — to an extent. While most drug tests will specifically sniff out THC, some of them may be sensitive enough to pick up on it. What’s more, is that it’s not entirely guaranteed that products that state that they are THC-free are completely free of THC at all. This is why it is vital that you rely only on the highest-quality CBD products that are on the market.
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