What is the difference between CBD and THC?
Cannabis Sativa has cannabinoids of different types. On the one hand, THC (Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol) has a psychoactive effect that alters perception or consciousness. On the other hand, CBD or Cannabidiol is a substance that also comes from the Cannabis Sativa plant, but does not have the psychoactive effects of THC.
Some people have doubts about the correct use of it. In fact, in recent times CBD has become one of the most effective alternatives for health wellness. However, others think that CBD can cause common perception problems like marijuana use.
In this post, we will focus on explaining the difference between CBD and THC. And of course, we will explain the importance of choosing the product that is endorsed by the authorities.
What do CBD and THC have in common?
The cannabis plant has more than 150 cannabinoids, which affect the human body and brain. Now, CBD and THC are cannabinoids. In fact, they are the main or best known substances in the scientific field. The point is that THC is illegal in many countries, due to its “stoned” effect.
It is important to note that both CBD and THC are components of the cannabis sativa plant that have been extracted from it.
The two substances have been the subject of scientific research in order to use it in the medicinal field.
For example, despite the negative effects of THC, theOEMM; non-profit association made up of researchers, doctors and patient associations explains that the narcotic properties make it useful in patients with chronic pain, for example, chemotherapy patients. In fact, it may be helpful in curbing nausea and whetting the appetite of cancer patients.
On the other hand, CBD has medicinal properties, but with less risk of side effects than THC. For example, anticonvulsant properties have been pointed out. In fact, for that reason theFDA approved it as a treatment in some types of epilepsy.
What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?
Both hemp and marijuana are technically the same plant, Cannabis sativa.
However, hemp is completely legal, while marijuana is considered a restricted substance. But why does this happen?
The answer is simple: hemp would be any strain of Cannabis sativa that contains less than 0.2% THC. These strains are used to make textiles, biodiesel, and supplements like CBD.
Marijuana, on the other hand, is any strain of cannabis with more than 0.2% THC by dry weight and is commonly used for its psychoactive effects.
Uses of CBD and THC
TheFDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved in 2018 the first drug derived from hemp, Epidiolex ®. This medication treats Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome (pediatric seizure disorders). Since then, the use of CBD has risen to fame.
Thanks to the fact that CBD has been legalized in some countries, hundreds of studies have been carried out, which has allowed it to be awarded benefits in anxiety disorders, insomnia, and even in the cosmetic field. It can be said that the main difference between CBD and THC is the use that has been given to them.
In relation to the first (CBD) it has been legalized in many countries, including the United States. THC research and use is not widely licensed. Although it is important to note that it also has medicinal properties and some experts even point out that it can be beneficial in diseases with chronic pain such as cancer or can even help reduce the consumption of analgesics.
Instead, CBD has various presentations for use or consumption, oils, creams, cosmetics, capsules, etc. So it can be used by the general population within the countries where it is regulated.
Can you test positive for drugs if you use CBD?
If you consume CBD from hemp, there is no fear of failing a drug test. It must be remembered that its low level of THC (or zero), does not alter consciousness and is within the legal range allowed in most countries.
Why should you consume CBD from authorized agents?
Keep in mind that not all CBD vendors adhere to quality manufacturing protocols. Furthermore, there are situations where marijuana plants have been sold as hemp, which is illegal.
Some CBD oil manufacturers may perform a low-quality extraction, which may contain undisclosed levels of THC. In this sense, it is necessary to go to authorized stores in order to obtain the presentations of CBD oil or any product based on this substance with the appropriate level, in order to guarantee that it is useful and safe for health.
Of course, experts consider these two cannabinoids beneficial for health, however, THC is a delicate substance and hundreds of scientific studies are still being carried out to assess its benefits and risks.