There are many cannabinoids present in the cannabis Sativa plant, but tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are among the most prominent cannabinoids. With the legalization of hemp and other cannabis products, consumers are becoming more interested in their options. Hemp is legal if it contains less than 0.3% THC.
THC products like the newest THC-O are available in the form of oils, edibles, tinctures, and capsules. On the other hand, hemp-derived CBD products include CBD oils, edibles, tinctures, and pills.
There are several differences between THC and CBD, notably the lack of psychoactive effect for CBD, which is distinct from the typical marijuana high caused by THC. This article discusses the differences between the two.
Differences Between CBD and THC
While both THC and CBD are two types of cannabinoids found in marijuana and interact with the endocannabinoid system (ES), there are some significant differences to consider.
Chemical Structure
In terms of molecular structure, both CBD and THC have the same chemical formula that consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. There is a subtle difference in how the atoms are arranged, which accounts for the differences in body effects.
There is a chemical similarity between THC and CBD and your body's endocannabinoids. This makes them able to bind to your cannabinoid receptors.
Chemical compounds in your brain are affected by this interaction. Chemicals called neurotransmitters carry messages between cells, which cause CBD and THC to affect various functions concerning pain, immune function, stress, and sleep.
Compound's Psychoactive Properties
While THC and CBD from the cannabis plant have similar chemical structures, they do not possess the same psychoactive impacts. CBD products like CBD oil produce psychoactive effects, just not to the same degree as the THC products such as THC-O gummies—it does not give the same high as THC.
THC binds to the brain's receptors for CB1 and a sense of euphoria is produced when it interacts with the receptors.
Alternatively, if CBD isolate binds to CB1 receptors, it does so very weakly. THC is necessary for CBD to attach to the CB1 receptor and, in turn, can reduce the unintended psychoactive effect of THC, such as euphoria or sedation.
Effects of CBD and THC-O
There are many similarities between CBD and THC-O in their medical benefits. Both can provide relief from many of the same ailments. However, CBD does not produce the same high THC gives. Because CBD does not cause this side effect, some people may prefer to use it.
CBD-dominant medical marijuana has minimal THC. This means a person will not feel high when they take the medication.
Even in large doses, CBD is well tolerated. However, it may potentially cause side effects due to drug-to-drug interactions with other medications you may be taking.
Among CBD's possible side effects are:
- Change of appetite
- Fatigue
- Loss of weight
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
There are also temporary side effects associated with THC and THC-O products, such as:
- Increase in heart rate
- Coordination issues
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Reduced reaction time
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
Drug Testing
Body fat is where cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are stored. You can test positive for these drugs several days or weeks after using them.
While CBD is not detectable on every drug test, CBD-sensitive tests exist. THC-O and marijuana use are likely to appear on most standard drug tests because they will look for chemicals related to THC. So, before using cannabis or CBD, consult professional medical advice in your area.
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