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You hear all the time about CBD and THC. They sound pretty similar and come from the same plant.
Are they the same thing? Is it the same plant with different cannabinoids? Is it the same plant with different cannabinoids that have different effects?
If you’re interested in the THC and CBD difference, you may be wondering what makes one better than the other, whether are they the same, what are the benefits, and what are their implications. Read on and we will answer all these.
Structure
THC has a cyclic ring structure, while CBD has a linear structure. This difference in structure is what gives THC its psychoactive properties. CBD does not have these properties.
THC and CBD are two of the most well-known chemical compounds in cannabis. They are also the most abundant, making up over 60% of the plant’s chemical composition.
Function
THC and CBD are not different cannabinoids and but they have different effects on the body. THC is a psychoactive compound. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce any intoxicating effects.
THC works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for a component of cannabis that gets you high. CBD binds to the CB2 receptors, which are responsible for a wide range of health benefits that THC does not.
Ways to Consume
CBD is popular to consume through tinctures, oils, edibles, topicals, capsules, and more. Tinctures are sublingually used or taken under the tongue. While oils are for vaporizing, cooking, and topical application.
Edibles, such as gummies and brownies, are a delicious way to consume CBD. Finally, topicals, such as lotions and creams, are directly applied to the skin for localized relief.
THC is mostly consumed through smoking cannabis. Grinding up cannabis and then using a pipe or bong, it inhales the smoke deeply and holds it in for a few seconds. You can also find and read a blog on smoking hemp for more information and guidance.
Side Effects
CBD is also known to cause drowsiness, while THC can cause some pretty intense side effects like anxiety, memory loss, and paranoia. It can make these other symptoms worse but CBD can counteract some of its negative effects as both terpenes and cannabinoids can interact with the body.
Therapeutic Benefits
CBD helps with anxiety, pain, and inflammation, and improves sleep and seizures, while THC helps with appetite, pain, and insomnia. Although CBD and THC can be used to treat pain, THC is more effective for acute, short-term pain while CBD is more effective for chronic, long-term pain
The Difference Between THC and CBD
THC and CBD are two of the most popular cannabinoids on the market today. If you’re wondering whether to use them, it’s important to understand the difference between the two for many different purposes.
By reading this guide, you will know the difference between the two to help you make an informed decision about which type of cannabis is right for you. So, be sure to ask your doctor that suits your needs and knows the possible effects.
Interested in learning more like this? Check out our other blog posts!