An Easy Guide To Understanding The Differences Between CBD And THC

Understanding the difference between CBD and THC can be a daunting challenge for those new to cannabis. There are many different types of cannabis, and it can be challenging to understand how they differ from one another. This article will go through all of the facts about these two compounds to decide which is best for you. 

What Is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that is known for its medicinal, psychological, and spiritual effects. It is also known to be the most commonly abused drug globally. Cannabis has been used for centuries as a medicine, and it was even used in ancient China. The cannabis plant contains hundreds of compounds which are called cannabinoids, and these compounds are responsible for the psychoactive properties of cannabis. Cannabis plants can be found worldwide, but they thrive in subtropical regions with high humidity levels, warm temperatures, and plenty of sunlight. Cannabis plants can grow up to 20 feet tall, and their flowers are usually purple or blue-green.

What Is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol. It is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis and hemp plants that have been linked to a wide range of health benefits. CBD can be used as an alternative treatment for specific medical conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and more. It is typically extracted from the cannabis plant through a process called CO2 extraction. This process involves using pressurized carbon dioxide to extract the compounds from the plant material without using any solvents or chemicals. There are numerous ways to consume this compound, including:

• Vaping: This method has become more common recently as it provides an instant hit, and vaping itself is a popular pastime.
• Edibles: These can range from gummies to chocolate and are a discrete way to get your recommended dosage.
• Oils: In its pure oil form, you can use it in a number of ways. You can add it to beverages or incorporate it into foods. Additionally, you can drop it sublingually (under your tongue).
• Topical creams: Some use cases require a topical application, such as acne treatment or joint inflammation.
• Capsules: This option provides the best way to get an exact dosage and is just as discrete (if not more so) than edibles.

Cannabidiol Health Benefits

As alluded to earlier, cannabidiol has some unique health benefits that have made it so popular in the past decade. While lots more study is required to understand the mechanisms and veracity of some claims, numerous studies have shown it to be beneficial for various ailments, including:

• Acne
• Inflammation
• Reducing anxiety and depression
• Minimizing the effects of PTSD
• Managing chronic pain
• Increasing appetite

What Is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a chemical compound that produces psychoactive and euphoric effects when it is inhaled or consumed. As the main active ingredient in cannabis plants, THC is the most abundant cannabinoid in marijuana. It’s also found in some foods and medicines. THC can be found in both natural and synthetic forms, but the levels are usually much higher in artificial states. It comes in several varieties, each with its own effects:

• Indica: Indica is a type of cannabis that produces a sedative and relaxing effect. It is the most popular strain of cannabis, and it is also one of the best types for insomnia. Indica plants are short, bushy, and broad with wide leaves that are densely packed with trichomes or resin glands. In other words, if you are looking for something to chill out to, this is the strain you should look for.
• Sativa: Sativa cannabis is known for its high THC content. Sativa cannabis is typically used for its cerebral effects, which are more uplifting, creative, and energetic. It is also used to relieve stress and anxiety. You should opt for this strain if you want to engage in exciting conversations with friends or hike through the forest!
• Hybrid: As the name suggests, this combines the other two options. Because hybrid is a catch-all term, it’s essential to do your research to find the right strain.

Health Benefits Of THC

THC has several health benefits that overlap those of cannabidiol but often include other valuable advantages:

• Control nausea
• Relax tight muscles
• Pain relief (usually more potent than cannabidiol)
• It is an effective sedative (in its Indica form)
• Has antioxidant effects on the body
• It can be an anticonvulsant in some cases (research ongoing)

Cannabidiol and THC are two primary compounds that are found in cannabis. Cannabidiol is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid, while THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid. They serve different purposes; they both have varying levels of health benefits, with THC including an additional sensory element that many people find enjoyable.

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