As the availability of cannabis products grows, so does the confusion. You may have heard about the benefits of CBD but are hesitant to try it due to its close affiliation to marijuana. Well, we’re here to help dispel your concerns. First by pointing out that hemp and marijuana are two different things, and second, and to explain the difference between CBD and THC. While the two stem from the same plant family, they are entirely different compounds offering different benefits. Read on to see the difference for yourself.
The Difference between THC and CBD
The cannabis plant has more than 100 natural compounds or cannabinoids, with cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) being the most common. Hemp and marijuana both stem from cannabis plant
Hemp is a term used for cannabis containing less than 0.3% THC content by dry weight. Marijuana, on the other hand, is cannabis with the ability to induce a euphoric high due when the THC content is more than 0.3% by dry weight. Marijuana contains much more THC than hemp, while hemp has much more CBD.
The most notable difference between the two: CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive effects; it lacks the characteristic marijuana high of THC.
The Chemical Structure
Both CBD and THC have the same chemical formula: 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. However, the attoms are differently arranged, which gives CBD and THC different chemical properties, and consequently, differing effects on your body.
Both compounds are chemically similar to your body’s endocannabinoids. Therefore, they can interact with your cannabinoid receptors to alter the release of neurotransmitters in your brain and affect sleep, pain, mood, and immune function, to name a few.
How CBD and THC Affect the Body
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana associated with the high people feel. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors in our bodies, CB1 and CB2. THC binds with CB1 receptors in the brain to control pain, mood, and other feelings. That’s why THC can impart a high or euphoria.
CBD is also psychoactive, just not in the same manner as THC. It does not possess the high. Instead, it helps with anxiety, depression, and seizures. CBD might also prove effective in countering the psychoactive effects of THC, like euphoria.
Medical Benefits
THC and CBD both share several health benefits. However, some people prefer to use CBD products because CBD doesn’t have the euphoric effects that occur with THC.
The FDA recently approved Epidiolex, the first prescription medication to contain CBD, to treat several forms of epilepsy that are difficult to control.
CBD is used to ease other conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Crohn’s disease
- Anxiety
- Multiple sclerosis
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
THC helps with the following conditions:
- Multiple sclerosis pain
- Nausea
- Nerve pain
- Parkinson’s disease
- Low appetite
Medical Benefits
THC and CBD both share several health benefits. However, some people prefer to use CBD products because CBD doesn’t have the euphoric effects that occur with THC.
The FDA recently approved Epidiolex, the first prescription medication to contain CBD, to treat several forms of epilepsy that are difficult to control.
CBD is used to ease other conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Crohn’s disease
- Anxiety
- Multiple sclerosis
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
THC helps with the following conditions:
- Multiple sclerosis pain
- Nausea
- Nerve pain
- Parkinson’s disease
- Low appetite
CBD Vs. THC: Legality
In the US, cannabis-related laws are constantly evolving. Many states have allowed medical marijuana, containing THC, for several uses. However, federal law still prohibits it. We also have states that have legalized recreational marijuana for personal use, but still, this is prohibited by federal laws.
The only clear distinction came with the US Farm Bill of 2018; it removed all hemp products with less than 0.1% THC from the list of ‘controlled substances’ across all 50 states (nonetheless, you should always check the local laws first before buying and using THC and CBD products).
Take Away
Both THC and CBD have medical benefits and are considered safe. Nonetheless, it is best to talk to your doctor to eliminate the possibility of you developing any side effects due to interaction with other drugs you’re taking.
Choosing the Best CBD
All of our Allvane products are THC-free, so you can enjoy the benefits without getting high and worrying about legalities. Our CBD is extracted from hemp grown in the USA by producers we trust. All of our products undergo rigorous third-party lab testing to ensure you get nothing but high-quality CBD. Shop now or contact us to start your CBD journey.