CBD vs THC: Unraveling the Differences Between these High-Profile Cannabinoids
CBD and THC – an explanation of these acronyms is essential in the ongoing discussions about cannabinoids and their myriad of applications in health and clinical therapy. CBD stands for cannabidiol and THC for tetrahydrocannabinol, both primary components of the cannabis plant. Despite their shared origin, CBD and THC have distinct characteristics, both in terms of their medicinal properties and psychoactive effects. This leads to divergent legal statuses across the globe as well. This article shines a light on the maze that is CBD vs THC, deciphering the differences, and potential therapeutic uses of these two cannabinoids.
CBD, or Cannabidiol, is derived directly from the hemp plant, a cousin of the marijuana plant. While CBD is a component of marijuana, it does not cause a “high.” According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
On the other hand, THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana that gives the high sensation. It can be consumed by smoking marijuana, but it’s also available in oils, edibles, tinctures, and capsules.
CBD and THC have many of the same medical benefits , being able to provide relief to several of the same conditions. However, CBD doesn’t cause the psychoactive effects that THC does, which increases its appeal to those who want relief without the marijuana high. Medical marijuana, which can contain either or both CBD and THC, has been used for its therapeutic properties for centuries.
There are a variety of health benefits linked to CBD, such as its potential in relieving chronic pain and inflammation, epilepsy, and several psychotic disorders. There has been a considerable research spike in the potential psychological, neurological, and physical benefits of CBD.
THC, in its turn, is known to help with conditions such as pain, muscle spasticity, glaucoma, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, and anxiety.
Interestingly, CBD and THC work best together. Research shows that the entourage effect, a theory that all the compounds in cannabis work together, and when taken together, they produce a better effect than when taken alone.
Both CBD and THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). However, they interact with the receptors of this system in different ways. THC binds with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, producing a high or sense of euphoria. CBD binds very weakly, if at all, to CB1 receptors. In fact, CBD can often interfere with the binding of THC and dampen the psychoactive effects.
Regardless of their health benefits and medicinal properties, the legality of CBD and THC varies. In the United States, cannabis-related laws are evolving continuously. Marijuana and THC are on the list of controlled substances, so they’re prohibited under federal law. However, 29 states plus the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana.
Contrarily, hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level but are still illegal under some state laws. It’s important to check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel.
Knowing the differences between CBD and THC is critical for consumers, especially for those interested in exploring the therapeutic potentials of cannabis compounds. While research on the health benefits of either compound continues, it is clear that both have significant roles to play in the realm of public health.
Sources:
1. Healthline Article
2. PubMed Central Article
3. PubMed Central Article
CBD and THC – an explanation of these acronyms is essential in the ongoing discussions about cannabinoids and their myriad of applications in health and clinical therapy. CBD stands for cannabidiol and THC for tetrahydrocannabinol, both primary components of the cannabis plant. Despite their shared origin, CBD and THC have distinct characteristics, both in terms…