How are CBD and THC different?

Although many people who smoke weed have knowledge of the varying marijuana strains and hybrids, while others may even know the best smoking method to achieve a particular high, most people who relish in Cheech and Chong do not know the difference between CBD and THC. These two primary cannabinoids, that occur naturally in the cannabis sativa plant, help to manage or alleviate different medical symptoms as well as possess contrasting side effects that may vary from user to user. Needless to say, each compound has its advantages when it comes to its medicinal effectiveness.

What are cannabinoids?

A cannabinoid is a chemical compound, produced by the cannabis flower, that acts as a receptor within your body. Just like how your nervous system controls your muscles and movements, cannabinoids have the ability to control your appetite, pain-sensation, mood and memory. As part of the endocannabinoid system in your body, both CBD and THC mimic your natural system and can provide relief from physical complications or illness.

What is CBD?

Also known by its scientific name, cannabidiol, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that is used in medicinal cannabis and agricultural hemp. If CBD is digested for pain relief, you are more likely to experience alleviation because there are no noticeable effects to your cognitive abilities.

Here is a list of the benefits of CBD:

• Helps with chronic pain
• Used for patients with Epilepsy
• Used for patients with Multiple Sclerosis
• Used for patients with Parkinson’s Disease
• Helps treat acne
• Used for patients with Diabetes
• Helps treat anxiety
• Used for patients with Schizophrenia
• Helps treat heart disease
• Helps treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What is THC?

Also known by its scientific name, tetrahydrocannabinol, THC is the psychoactive part of the cannabis plant and is the prime contributor to the high feeling you get when you smoke weed. The compound modulates sleeping and eating habits, the user’s perceptions of pain and other bodily functions.

Here is a list of the benefits of THC:

• Helps with the side effects of Chemotherapy
• Used for Multiple Sclerosis patients
• Used for HIV/AIDS patients
• Used to treat spinal injuries
• Used for nausea and vomiting
• Helps with chronic pain
• Helps with inflammation
• Helps with digestive health

Although both cannabinoids offer their own benefits research suggests that CBD may be better for the treatment of inflammation or neuropathic pain, while THC may help more with spasticity and cramp-related pain. Some experts even suggest that a healthy combination of both cannabinoids is the most ideal way to approach your pain. Needless to say, now that you know the difference between CBD and THC, you will be able to find your balance and best determine which cannabinoid would benefit you.

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