CBD and THC are compounds found in the cannabis plant. These compounds are found within a thick substance called cannabinoids. While the cannabis plant produces many cannabinoids, CBD and THC are the main ones. Let’s break down the main differences between these two compounds.
What is THC?
THC’s government name is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and it is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. This compound is what gets you “high” when you consume marijuana. There are three common forms of THC are herbs or flowers (dried from the cannabis plant), hash or hashish, or hash oil.
While the herbal variety is the most popular, the other forms of THC have been gaining traction as more states legalize the plant. Hash is also commonly known as “wax,” due to its thick, solid, and paste-like consistency. This form of THC generally has significantly more THC than its herbal counterpart, and some consumers believe it has a less pungent smell as well, making it an attractive option for those who consume cannabis frequently.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol and while it is related to THC, it does not possess psychoactive properties, so it will not produce the same “high” feeling. While CBD can be easier to get your hands on than THC, each state has different laws regarding selling and consuming CBD.
CBD is known for its medicinal properties, which have contributed to legalization in many states. CBD is the active ingredient in Epidiolex – a breakthrough medication that is the first and only medication made from a marijuana ingredient approved by the FDA.
Where do CBD and THC come from?
Both CBD and THC come from the same plant, Cannabis sativa. CBD is usually extracted from hemp, which is a type of cannabis plant that contains very little THC, less than 0.3%. If a cannabis plant has more than 0.3% THC, it is considered marijuana. The CBD and THC compounds come from the resin on the leaves, and the buds of the female cannabis plant, or the female hemp plant in the case of CBD.
Main Differences Between CBD and THC
Both CBD and THC affect the endocannabinoid system within our bodies, but there are some major differences. Most notably, CBD does not possess the psychoactive effects that THC does. This means ingesting CBD will not produce the “high” feeling that ingesting THC will.
Another notable difference is that CBD can decrease the frequency and length of epileptic seizures. While THC is used for many other ailments, only CBD can boast this feature. CBD is also implicated to help ease depression and help with psychosis. Medically speaking, there are many potential benefits of CBD and this has made it easier to access the product as many states have more relaxed laws regarding the sale of CBD than THC. Each state varies slightly on how they regulate CBD, so check your state laws before making a purchase.
When choosing between CBD and THC products, it’s important to do your own research and speak to your healthcare provider about which is the best option for you.