What is THC?
This property makes THC effective in mitigating a loss of appetite and nausea. This is the reason THC is useful in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Also, like CBD it has effects on our brains making it ideal for curing headaches or migraines, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. However, THC is illegal in most countries whereas hemp and CBD are legal in many places.
A larger dose of THC means you’ll get more “high”. You should be advised that overdosing is risky. A THC overdose causes the following:
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
What is CBD?
If you suffer from chronic body pain, a high CBD strain of cannabis is preferable because it won’t inhibit you from normal daily activities. For people who suffer from chronic pain due to an illness, CBD is recommended because it curbs the discomfort without tampering with their ability to function.
Difference between THC and CBD
Physical Interactions
CBD and THC cannabinoids react with the body differently. While CBD has indirect effects, THC is responsible for activating CB1 and CB2 receptors. Since THC binds with CB1 easily, it stimulates the body. This results in the following:
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Altered senses
- Relaxation
CBD interacts with CB1 receptors indirectly in a process called modulation. The reason why CBD is popularly used is its ability to influence a number of receptors throughout our bodies.
Medical Use
While CBD and THC have many benefits and uses, the two cannabinoids are used differently. The different uses include the following:
CBD
- Painkiller
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-anxiety
- Neuroprotective
- Anti-tumoral
- Anti-convulsant
THC
- Muscle relaxant
- Appetite stimulant
- Euphoria and relaxation
- Anti-emetic
- Painkiller
- Drowsiness and sleep
What is Entourage Effect?
How does CBD work without THC?
THC or CBD?
In most countries, the use of cannabis and THC is restricted but the use of pure CBD is less so. In order to achieve the euphoric effect known as “high”, people usually look for cannabis products containing THC. On the other hand, people who want to use cannabis purely for its medicinal properties and avoid the “high” feeling, should look for products containing CBD only.
Is CBD Better Than THC?
However, research shows that THC is very potent compared to CBD. The catch is here though; research shows that the low potency of CBD could also mean that it has little clinical benefits.
No single component of the cannabis plant can conclusively be labeled as good or bad. So for us to say that CBD is better than THC; a lot of research is required. It is most important to note that CBD has very little side effects. Apart from some people complaining of a dry mouth, the side effects of CBD is very minimal compared to the clinical benefits of CBD.
On the other hand, THC has a higher number of side effects. The side effects include anxiety and paranoia. CBD can be used to cure psychotic disorders. THC cannot be substituted for CBD and be used to mitigate psychotic disorders.
Conclusion
When used together, the two cannabinoids can treat a wider variety of diseases. For example, the combination of CBD oil and THC can be used to cure depression, migraines, and arthritis. It’s better not to think either THC or CBD is better than the other but use each for its intended use. This approach will make us realize the full benefits of these cannabinoids.
| CBD | THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Will show on drug test | Possible | Yes |
| Side effects | Possible, but minimal | Psychoactive side effects |
| Gives a high | No | Yes |
| Helps with depression | Yes | No |
| Eases pain | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-inflammatory | Yes | Yes |
| Eases migraine | Yes | Yes |
| Interacts with the endocannabinoid system | Yes | Yes |
| Helps with anxiety | Yes | Yes |
| Reduces seizures | Yes | No |
| Helps with insomnia | Yes | Yes |
| Helps with nausea | Yes | Yes |
| Helps with psychosis | Yes | No |
Recommended articles: Is CBD legal in all 50 states? & In What Countries Is CBD Legal?
