What’s the difference between THC and CBD?

Most of us are aware that CBD and THC are both associated with cannabis - but what exactly are they, and what's the difference between them?

Let us break it down for you:

There are over 100 compounds found in cannabis, and of them all, CBD and THC are two of the most abundant. These compounds, also known as 'cannabinoids' are found nowhere else in the natural world except for in cannabis. (Yes, you heard us right: cannabis is the only plant that produces these incredible compounds!)

CBD and THC have many different properties and in recent years there has been a renewed interest in researching how they affect the human body, and potential therapeutic uses.

CBD

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is the second most prevalent cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, and is commonly used in health products for its health benefits.

CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed oil. You’ll find it in CBD gummies, dietary supplements, drinks, topical creams, foods and more.

Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive, which makes it an appealing option for those looking for relief from pain and other symptoms without the intoxicating effects of cannabis, or other side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. While tiny amounts of THC may be found in full-spectrum CBD products (as they can legally contain up to 0.3% THC), the effects of this small quantity of THC are typically not detectable.

CBD continues to gain popularity in the health and wellness world, with some scientific studies finding that it may ease symptoms of conditions such as chronic pain and anxiety.

THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis, and it’s also the chemical responsible for most of marijuana's intoxicating, psychoactive effects.

THC produces the high people associate with using marijuana recreationally, but it can also be used therapeutically for treating things like glaucoma, muscle spasticity, low appetite, insomnia as well as pain, anxiety and nausea.

How do THC and CBD Impact the Human Body?

Both of these cannabinoids work, in part, by affecting your endocannabinoid system.

What - what's the endocannabinoid system?

Well, believe it or not, your body actually produces its own cannabinoids (called endocannabinoids) that bind to cannabinoid receptors to produce certain effects.

Your endocannabinoid system exists in your skin, brain, eyes, cardiovascular system, bones, muscle, etc., and its main function is to keep your body in a state of homeostasis (or healthy balance).

The natural endocannabinoids your body produce fit into your ECS receptors like a key in a lock and help carry messages from cell to cell.

Cannabinoids found in plants (also called phytocannabinoids) are chemically similar to the endocannabinoids that your body naturally produces. THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, temporarily replacing your own endocannabinoids, causing different effects such as the release of dopamine, feelings of relaxation, increased hunger, and various effects on certain regions of the brain associated with thinking and decision making as well as physical movement and coordination.

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