It doesn’t matter if you are trying to smoke a joint or reduce pain; every cannabis and CBD enthusiast must understand the difference between Cannabidiol and THC.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are not new discoveries.
However, our knowledge of the two plant compounds is still emerging as scientists continue to research them to discover more about their properties and medical benefits.
Recently, awareness about the cannabis plant and its two main compounds has heightened its popularity and brought it into the mainstream.
Today, you can enjoy the best cannabis experience with cannabis edibles and true CBD goodness with topicals such as Wild Flower Cool Balm from Calm Better Days.
If you are keen on learning more about THC and CBD differences, keep reading to find out. Let’s begin by exploring the world of cannabinoids.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that bind with receptors found all over the body to produce specific physiological effects.
Over 100 distinct cannabinoids have been discovered in the cannabis plant by scientists, but the two most widely mentioned are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the primary cannabinoids (cannabidiol-specific chemical compounds) found in Cannabis Sativa plants.
A cannabis Sativa plant can be defined based on its Cannabidiol and THC content. The following are some facts you should know;
- Cannabis sativa of type I possesses more than 0.3% THC and less than 0.5% CBD.
- Cannabis sativa type II contains more than 0.3% THC and 0.5% CBD.
- Cannabis sativa type III possesses less than 0.3% THC and more than 0.5% CBD.
- Cannabis sativa types I and II are categorized as marijuana, while cannabis Sativa type III is considered hemp.
CBD can be derived from any form of cannabis Sativa plant, but it is only legal in the United States when sourced from hemp.
It is common to hear questions like “what is CBD used for? or ” what are the benefits of CBD”?
Due to its therapeutic and analgesic properties, CBD products such as Tonic Grounded 1500mg Adaptogen Tincture are used to reduce pain and treat other medical conditions such as anxiety and depression.
What Is THC?
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is another cannabinoid located in cannabis Sativa plants. THC is the compound responsible for the intoxicating, psychoactive “high” that cannabis induces.
Main Differences Between Cannabidiol And THC
To get a clearer understanding of THC and CBD differences, let’s analyze both compounds based on the following parameters:
Chemical Structure
Although THC and CBD share the same chemical formula (C21H30O2), the structure of CBD has two 6-membered rings. While THC has an additional 6-membered ring.
As a result, Cannabidiol and THC attach to various receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, modulating the central nervous system, synaptic plasticity (how neurons communicate with one another), and the body’s reaction to external stressors.
CB1, which is mostly found in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2, which is mostly found in the immune system. Are the two main receptors in the endocannabinoid system (and in much lower levels in the central nervous system).
THC has a high affinity for both receptors, whereas CBD has zero to no affinity for either.
Psychoactive Properties
Furthermore, THC and CBD are distinct regarding their psychoactive properties. While THC is known for its intoxicating properties, CBD is widely known for its therapeutic abilities.
THC produces a “high” by attaching to CB1 receptors. CBD does not produce the same intoxicating effect as THC because it does not bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors.
But what happens when Cannabidiol and THC are consumed together?
When Cannabidiol and THC are absorbed together, CBD binds to the receptors and prevents THC from binding to them, alleviating some of the THC’s effects.
Legal Status
Finally, the legal status of Cannabidiol and THC are pretty different.
Hemp-derived products, including CBD products. Are legal in the United States under the 2018 Farm Bill if they comprise no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Cannabis products containing more than 0.3% THC by dry weight, whether hemp-derived or not, are still illegal under federal law.
Buy High-Quality CBD Products At Calm Better Days
Are you looking to buy CBD online in New York? Look no further than Calm Better Days.
We have an exciting collection of the best CBD products, including tinctures such as Bloom Farms Dream, oil, and topicals at very affordable prices.
Cannabidiol and THC are the two most common compounds in the cannabis plant. Therefore, understanding the difference between the two is crucial if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds with maximum satisfaction.