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What are the differences between CBD and THC?

June 27, 2023

CBD and THC are the two primary cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Typically, these two natural compounds interact with human cannabinoid receptors to help maintain complementary and integrative health by limiting the impacts of several conditions. Besides those two, there are over 100 cannabinoids that can influence the endocannabinoid system. 

BioSpectrum Hemp’s nonprescription CBD products and THC products are mostly used by middle-aged people who are dealing with physical aging symptoms including decreasing muscle mass, post-menopausal, pre-menopausal, muscle aches and pains, ack of quality sleep, lower libido, slower metabolism, intense energy fluctuations, and other health conditions. 

Although both CBD and THC have a lot in common, a few key differences further determine how these cannabis products are used. Let’s start by learning more about the key differences between CBD and THC. 

CBD and THC: Key Differences 

Cannabidiol or CBD is the active ingredient derived from the cannabis sativa plant or hemp. Hemp produces CBD products that can be found in the form of CBD gummies, CBD oil, topical roll-on, full spectrum tinctures, etc. Since the state medical cannabis laws state that legal hemp can contain only 0.3% THC or less, it doesn’t produce any high sensation among users. 

On the other end of the spectrum, THC is the main psychoactive compound that produces the feeling of getting high. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol or THC alters the brain’s reward system by releasing dopamine. Usually, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in developing mood and pleasure among human beings. 

The key differences between CBD and THC include: 

  • CBD is non-psychoactive and it doesn’t produce any euphoric feeling whereas THC has psychoactive effects on users. 
  • CBD is sourced from the legal hemp plant but THC can also be extracted from the hemp plant. 
  • Cannabis potency is found a little less in CBD products than it is found in THC products. Therefore, the former may be safer alternative to obtaining medicinal benefits. 

BioSpectrum Hemp-derived products can be used in the form of CBD, Delta-9 THC, and Delta-8 gummies, full spectrum tinctures, topical roll-ons, and more to experience an elevated mind-body experience. 

What is the Chemical Structure of THC? 

THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the main psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant. It’s one among the 113 other cannabinoids identified on the same plant. The chemical structure of THC describes multiple isomers as it has a molecular formula of C21H30O2. It means THC contains twenty-one carbon atoms along with thirty hydrogen and two oxygen atoms. 

The same chemical formula or the same chemical makeup is found in CBD also but depending on how these atoms are arranged and how the compound’s psychoactive properties, it will impact the central nervous system differently. 

THC and CBD: Psychoactive Properties 

Both CBD and THC have psychoactive effects but the effects of CBD don’t impair human functionality whereas THC produces an intoxicating high. This euphoric high comes from the way the cannabinoids bind with the human cannabinoid receptors. Since CBD doesn’t bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors like THC, it never produces the same psychoactive effects as THC. 

However, due to having the same molecular structure, if you consume a CBD product and a THC product at the same time, CBD will first bind to the endocannabinoid system and block THC. Thus, it will further mitigate the psychoactive effects felt by the THC compound. 

CBD vs. THC Sources 

Both marijuana and hemp plants are used for deriving CBD and THC. Nevertheless, at BioSpectrum Hemp, we prefer hemp-derived CBD to avoid large doses. When CBD is derived from marijuana plants, it could contain more amounts of THC than it’s legally advised by the world health organization and is still not FDA-approved in the United States. 

Since most of our users consume CBD for yielding therapeutic benefits rather than feeling a euphoric high, it’s important for us to maintain the proper amount of THC advised according to federal law. 

Kindly note, CBD is derived mostly from the hemp plants whereas THC may be derived from the medical cannabis plant. All BioSpectrum Hemp products have THC and CBD derived from Hemp. 

Chemical Differences 

According to Harvard Health Publishing, CBD and THC share similar chemical compounds but both have different chemical structures. The chemical structure of CBD comprises two 6-membered rings unlike THC that comprises an additional 6-membered ring formed by attaching an oxygen and a carbon atom. 

Since the chemicals related to both these cannabis products are slightly different, they modulate the central nervous system differently. Further, THC binds with both cannabinoid receptors but CBD has an affinity for any one of them. 

CBD vs. THC Chemical Structure 

CBD and THC have similar molecular structures of twenty-one carbon atoms, two oxygen atoms, and thirty hydrogen atoms. According to online reports, THC and CBD are chemically similar to the human endocannabinoid. However, these atoms are arranged differently; therefore, they act differently on the human endocannabinoid system. 

Potential Side Effects 

Although both CBD and THC are the most prominent cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, the latter may show some mild side effects if used in larger doses or along with other medications. The potential side effects include dizziness, intoxication effects, dry mouth, nausea, red eyes, etc. 

What is the Most Important Thing I Should Know About THC and CBD? 

Hemp-derived CBD products and THC products are used for therapeutic purposes. Still, it’s important to know that according to the Controlled Substances Act, the use of CBD-THC is deemed legal as long as the THC component is less than 0.3%. If any THC or CBD products regardless of their sources contains more than 0.3% of THC, it will be considered illegal under federal law. 

CBD vs. THC: Potential Medical Benefits 

There may be potential medical benefits attached to both CBD and THC when used correctly. However, it’s important to understand that neither CBD nor THC is an FDA-approved product but only one prescription medication that is used for treating seizures and epilepsy called Epidiolex. 

With the help of our BioSpectrum Hemp products for active men and women, they may experience the following: 

  • Experience restful sleep 
  • Maintain optimal health daily 
  • You may get relief from occasional muscular pain 
  • Wake up every day feeling energized and refreshed 

Further, some clinical trials have been going on to see cannabis use in some major medical cases such as cancer treatment but to date, there is no proper evidence found. The most concrete proof we have about CBD and THC used for treating health conditions and enhancing overall health and wellness can be found in real CBD users’ online testimonies. 

CBD vs. THC: Effects 

Although recent reresearch suggest that the use of these controlled substances is deemed safe when you use them at recommended dosages, it doesn’t mean you won’t experience unwanted side effects. 

In some cases, the following may be experienced by users: 

  • Drowsiness 
  • Nausea 
  • Dizziness 
  • Changes in appetite and mood 

In addition to these, the National Center on Drug Abuse has also stated that THC affects how the orbitofrontal cortex and hippocampus function in our system. If you’re a working mom or dad and want a doctor’s stamp of approval for your CBD products, then BioSpectrum Hemp is your best source. 

Potential Benefits 

The research on medical cannabis and its potential benefits are in the early stage. Still, there are is some evidence that these substances derived from the cannabis plants could be helpful in some conditions including pain relief, inflammatory responses, muscular aches relief, etc. 

Drug Testing 

Drug tests generally detect THC but not CBD in the human system. Nevertheless, depending on the test, it can still be used for tracing CBD as well. Even if it’s hemp derived containing 0.3% of THC, drug tests can easily detect it. Therefore, we recommend refraining from using the dosages if you’re scheduled for a drug test. 

What’s Legal? 

The laws on cannabis use and other cannabinoids use cases are continuously evolving. It’s important to note that CBD is considered legal according to federal law. Moreover, the THC content must be less than 0.3% in every product for them to be considered legal. Though it’s federally legal, the state laws don’t approve them in some cases. 

CBD Legal States 

In the United States, there are over 37 states who have already passed the law for making medical cannabis legal as long as it’s hemp derived. In addition, there are nineteen other states and two territories that have made THC legal for recreational use. You must research your local laws before buying CBD products. 

Side Effects 

The world health organization has stated that CBD is safe to use as long as you don’t overdo it. Further, FDA approves that the potential side effects often occur due to the interaction with other prescribed medications. Therefore, it’s important to consult with an expert if you’re taking prescription medications. 

Is the Cannabis Plant a Safer Alternative Than Prescription Medication? 

The therapeutic benefits of CBD and THC derived from the cannabis sativa plant are still under research. Here at BioSpectrum Hemp, we make our products to offer supplementation to help you maintain and support a better state of well-being. If you have a serious medical condition, we recommend consider visiting a doctor for prescription medication. 

What is the Difference Between THC High and CBD? 

The primary difference between CBD and THC high is that the former doesn’t produce a euphoric high as it doesn’t bind with CB1 or CB2 receptors. Whereas the latter produces a significant high by attaching to endocannabinoid receptors of human systems. 

What is the Difference Between High CBD and High THC Edibles? 

The main difference between high CBD and high THC edibles is the type of cannabinoids that they contain. CBD edibles are derived directly from legally grown hemp plants containing a trace amount of THC and a high amount of CBD but THC edibles are derived from marijuana plants containing higher concentrations of THC. 

Does CBD Make THC Stonger? 

Whether or not CBD makes THC stronger, it’s still under much debate and more research is still needed. While some studies have suggested that combining CBD with THC may decrease the euphoric high effects of THC, others have shown the inverse. 

Tips for Buying CBD and THC Products From the Cannabis Sativa Plant 

The use of BioSpectrum THC and CBD Hemp products can definitely bring a sense of well-being among mid-age people who are constantly suffering from various age-related symptoms. We make our products to help support your well-being and overall health combined with a doctor’s stamp of approval. 

The best tips for buying THC and CBD products including CBD oil, gummies, tinctures, topical roll on, Delta-8 gummies, Delta-9 THC gummies and others is to purchase them from a trusted supplier that provides a COA, outstanding customer support, and affordable prices such as BioSpectrum Hemp. 

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*FDA Disclosure
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Reviews and testimonials are from verified consumers and may be edited for length, language or format. Always check with your physician before starting a new dietary supplement program. Do not use if you are pregnant or lactating. Always consult a medical physician before modifying your diet or using any new dietary supplements The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers non-THC based hemp products to be “food based” and therefore legal without a medical marijuana license. BioSpectrum HEMP does not sell or distribute any products that are in violation of the United States Controlled Substances Act (US.CSA).

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