CBD and THC are chemical compounds derived from the cannabis plant. They both belong to a group of compounds called cannabinoids. In fact, they are the two most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis, which is why they are commonly referred to as the “major cannabinoids.” While CBD and THC are related and have many things in common, they also have a number of differences: most notably, the ability (or inability) to produce intoxicating effects.
In this article, we’ll take a long look at CBD vs THC, as well as the products containing these popular cannabis cousins.
What Is CBD?
As noted above, CBD (cannabidiol) is one of two major compounds found in the cannabis hemp plant. Unlike its cannabinoid cousin, THC, CBD produces no psychotropic effects when consumed. Instead, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system helps the body to maintain homeostasis, or balance. When we study CBD bioactivity, we see that CBD mimics the body’s own endocannabinoids and, in doing so, bolsters the system, producing a number of CBD wellness benefits.**
The Benefits of CBD
The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors that are tied into vital organs and systems throughout the body. These systems help to regulate such crucial health functions as sleep, memory, mood, stress, pain, and much more. In bolstering this system, CBD produces a number of wellness benefits, which is why many people turn to CBD products for sleep, stress and minor pain relief, and better overall health and wellness.**
CBD Side Effects
Side effects from taking CBD are rare, and generally stem from taking much more than the recommended serving size. These CBD effects can include drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. CBD can also interact adversely with some medications, so always check with your physician before using CBD supplements.
Types of CBD Products
CBD-infused products come in a variety of forms, ranging from CBD gummies, capsules, and other edibles to sublingual CBD oil tinctures to CBD vape pens to CBD creams and other topicals. And since CBD is safe for dogs and cats (if taken with a proper dosage), there are also a number of popular items featuring CBD for pets.
These are available in a wide variety of formulations, serving a number of different needs. Customers often turn to CBD for sleep, as well as CBD for pain, CBD for wellness, and other issues.**
Legality
The 2018 US Farm Bill made the growth, manufacture, and sale of cannabis hemp products legal nationwide, so long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. Most cannabidiol products fall into this category and are, thus, legal at the national level. Some local laws may vary.
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CBD |
THC |
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Available in edibles, sublingual tinctures, vapes, and topicals |
Available in edibles, sublingual tinctures, and vapes |
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Used for calming, sleep, minor pain relief, and general health & wellness** |
Used for medical cannabis, relaxation, sleep, and recreation** |
What Is THC?
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. While there are multiple tetrahydrocannabinol variants found in cannabis, the one that is most prominent (and well-known) is delta-9 THC. This form of THC is one of the two major cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, making delta-9 THC the principal “psychotropic” compound of the plant (i.e., the one that gets you “high”).
Like CBD, THC bioactivity involves its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system, primarily by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. This cannabinoid receptor interaction is what triggers that “high” feeling and can affect mood, memory, pain, and appetite (munchies, anyone?).
The Benefits of THC
While medical marijuana, high in delta-9 content, is now commonly used, some of the more common household reasons people take THC are for recreational enjoyment, stress relief, relaxation, and sleep.** Microdosing THC is a particularly popular way of taking the edge off daily stress without losing control.
THC Side-Effects
THC can have a number of side effects, particularly for those who are new to it or who overindulge. These THC effects can include paranoia, altered senses, impaired memory and coordination, anxiety, and increased heart rate.
Types of THC Products
THC also comes in a variety of forms, including THC gummies, capsules, and other edibles, as well as THC oil tinctures and THC vape pens. As with CBD, THC products can be formulated to serve a variety of needs, including sleep, stress relief, and recreation.
Legality
Products containing more than 0.3% THC are only legal in certain states. These items (usually made with marijuana) can only be purchased from authorized dispensaries. While we carry a number of hemp-derived THC items, none of our products break this legal threshold and are, therefore, adherent to the 2018 US Farm Bill.
CBD vs THC: Which Is Best for You?
When considering the question of THC vs CBD, it’s important to think about what you’re looking to get out of your experience. As we’ve noted, CBD is non-psychoactive, while THC is psychoactive. For most folks, that psychoactive ingredient is the main differentiator. But beyond that, there’s the question of legality where you live, as well as the type of experience you’re looking for. Need a good night’s rest? There are CBD and THC products to help you with that.** Stressed out? Both CBD and THC can help with that, too.** But if you’re looking for minor pain management, a daily multivitamin, or perhaps a focus and energy boost, you’re not likely to find a THC product for those needs.
So, think about what you’re looking to achieve before you shop. Whichever cannabis cousin you choose, we have a variety of products to serve your needs!
