CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

CBD and THC – two products from the same plant, but different uses. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are compounds found in the marijuana and hemp plant. The plants contain hundreds of cannabinoids, but CBD and THC are two with the most usage in society.

People around the world have been using marijuana dating to prehistoric times. These uses include recreation, spiritual purposes, and as a medicine. The hemp plant contains plenty of CBD and minimal THC. Industries use the plant to make clothes, textiles, and recycled polyester.

The two compounds come from the same plant, yet they have many differences in uses, legality, side-effects and medicinal values. Let’s discuss the differences below.

Uses of CBD and THC

Historically, people would smoke or chew cannabis for its therapeutic benefits. Extraction techniques allowed for exploration of the distinct compounds which enable users to avoid the psychoactive THC.

Because it is non-psychoactive, CBD doesn’t cause a “high” effect when taken. Users prefer it for its gentleness, and use it for recreation activities, pain relief, and insomnia. People also use CBD on their pets; the most common application is for helping with pet anxiety. One type of CBD we can recommend is Pet CBD Oil 600mg by Vita Hemp Oil.

THC is the primary cannabinoid associated with the psychoactive “high” effect on users. Some people prefer using Marijuana for recreation because of its high THC content, as they enjoy the “high.”

Medical Uses

Medics use both THC and CBD to treat a range of medical conditions. FDA does not, however, approve their use. FDA only approved Epidiolex, a CBD formulation to treat seizures in epileptic patients.

CBD uses include treatment of psychosis problems, inflammation, migraines, nausea, arthritis and body pains. And THC works as a remedy for anxiety, glaucoma, depression and low appetite problems.

THC, when used alone causes a range of side effects, only eased by using it’s with CBD.

Side Effects

According to the WHO, CBD has only a few side effects, and its prolonged use doesn’t cause dependence. Side-effects might arise when it’s combined with other drugs or substances.

THC has an array of side effects which include memory loss, slowness in reactions, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea and coordination problems. Prolonged THC use can use mental issues.

Legality

Cannabis Sativa is not legal, but many states allow the use of Marijuana for medicinal purpose. CBD became legal in the USA after the enaction of the Farm Bill while THC   is still illegal in many states. Each state has its by-laws regarding possession, use, and transport of CBD intrastate or interstate.

Despite the slowness in the legalization of Marijuana, all stakeholders agree it’s beneficial. To enhance safe use, create jobs, and protect the youth, many states are speeding change of marijuana laws.