Discover the unique properties and effects of THC and CBD, their legal aspects and therapeutic applications.
THC and CBD – Cannabis, a plant that has been used for medicinal and spiritual purposes for thousands of years, has become increasingly important worldwide in recent decades. The hemp plant, which has played different roles in different cultures and eras, is now the subject of intense scientific research and lively social debate.
The hemp plant, or Cannabis Sativa as it is technically known, contains a variety of compounds known as cannabinoids. Two of the most well-known and studied cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds are responsible for many of the diverse and complex effects of cannabis on the human body.
Despite their common origin, THC and CBD couldn’t be more different. They are two sides of the same coin, with unique properties and effects that bring both benefits and drawbacks. As a result, both compounds have the potential to affect human well-being in different ways.
In this article, we will focus on the differences between THC & CBD to provide a deeper understanding of these two remarkable cannabinoids & their effects on the human body. In doing so, we will rely on the latest scientific findings to paint a clear and objective picture.
THC vs. CBD – So Same & Yet So Different
What are THC and CBD? – Basics and similarities
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the more than 100 identified cannabinoids[1], found in large quantities in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that act on the human body’s endocannabinoid system[2] (ECS), a complex cell signaling system that plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis, or internal balance, in the body.
Both THC and CBD have a similar molecular structure: 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms & 2 oxygen atoms. Despite this similarity in molecular structure, THC and CBD have different psychoactive effects, mainly due to the way they interact with the receptors of the ECS.
THC & CBD both have a variety of therapeutic uses. They can relieve pain[3], reduce inflammation[4], and help control nausea and vomiting[5]. In addition, studies have shown that THC and CBD have neuroprotective properties[6] and have the potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
It is important to note that while THC and CBD share many similarities, their differences in psychoactive effects & legal status make them unique. It is these differences that define the potential of THC and CBD as therapeutic agents & form the basis for ongoing research & discussion about the role of these cannabinoids in medicine & society.
THC vs. CBD: Different effects on the human body
Although THC & CBD are very similar cannabinoids, they differ significantly in their effects on the human body. The main difference is in their psychoactive effects[7]. THC binds directly to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, which are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. This binding triggers a series of responses that produce the “high” associated with cannabis use. In addition, THC can also cause pain relief, relaxation[8] and increased appetite stimulation[9].
CBD does not have a strong affinity for these receptors and is therefore not psychoactive. Instead, CBD acts indirectly on the endocannabinoid system by affecting the reuptake and degradation of endogenous cannabinoids & inhibiting the binding of THC to CB1 receptors. These properties of CBD may help attenuate the psychoactive effects of THC[10]. In addition, CBD has a variety of potential therapeutic applications, including the relief of pain, inflammation[11], anxiety[12] and seizures[13].
It is important to note that the effects of THC & CBD may also be influenced by other factors such as dose, route of administration & the individual physiology of the user. Therefore, it is important that the use of THC & CBD is done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
Pros & Cons of the two components
THC and CBD each have their own advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when looking at their therapeutic uses and potential risks.
Starting with THC, it has some medical benefits including relief from chronic pain, nausea and loss of appetite. It is often used in the medical treatment of patients with cancer and AIDS to relieve symptoms such as nausea and loss of appetite. However, THC has drawbacks, including psychoactive effects that can lead to impaired cognitive function, coordination, and reaction time. In addition, long-term use carries the risk of developing dependence or tolerance.
CBD, on the other hand, has a wide range of therapeutic uses without the psychoactive effects of THC. It is used to treat epilepsy, anxiety, inflammation and chronic pain. CBD is also valued for its neuroprotective properties and is being studied in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. One drawback of CBD is that in some cases it may interact with certain medications[14] and affect their efficacy. In addition, the optimal dosage for various applications has not been fully researched.
It is important to recognize that both THC and CBD are complex molecules with a variety of effects. The decision to use THC or CBD should be based on careful consideration of the potential benefits & risks, and ideally be made under the supervision of a medical professional.
Legal status of THC and CBD
In the USA, the legal status of THC & CBD is clearly defined. THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, is generally illegal. It is strictly forbidden to produce, import or sell cannabis for recreational purposes. However, medical cannabis has been legal since 2017, paving the way for the use of THC in certain medical contexts.
CBD, on the other hand, has a different legal status. CBD, which is derived from industrial hemp and has a THC content of no more than 0.2 percent, is legal to purchase and consume in the US. Therefore, CBD is available in many different forms, such as CBD oil, CBD creams or even CBD capsules. However, it is important that the products comply with EU regulations and that the THC content remains within the legal limits.
It is important to note that laws and regulations regarding THC and CBD are subject to change & it is always advisable to check for the latest information and seek legal advice if necessary.
Mixing THC and CBD: How the combination works
Combining THC & CBD can have a number of effects, depending on the specific blend & the body’s individual responses to these cannabinoids. Scientific studies have shown that CBD can moderate the psychoactive effects of THC, resulting in a less intense “high” feeling.
In addition, the combination of THC & CBD can have synergistic effects, meaning that their combined effects can be greater than the sum of their individual effects. This can result in the therapeutic properties of both substances being enhanced. For example, the combination of THC & CBD may be more effective at relieving pain than either substance alone.
However, it is important to note that the optimal mix of THC and CBD may vary from person to person & depends on a number of factors, including the specific symptoms or conditions being treated and the individual’s tolerance and response to cannabinoids.
The bottom line
Although both come from the hemp plant, the cannabinoids THC and CBD offer a variety of unique properties & effects. THC, known for its psychoactive effects, & CBD, known for its therapeutic applications, are two sides of the same coin. Both have their own advantages & disadvantages, and the choice between the two, or a combination thereof, should be based on a careful consideration of the potential benefits & risks.
The combination of THC & CBD can have synergistic effects. This can lead to an increase in the therapeutic properties of both substances. However, the optimal mix of THC & CBD may vary from person to person & should be individualized.
In conclusion, both THC and CBD play an important role in the medical & therapeutic use of cannabis. However, it is important that we continue to conduct scientific research & stay abreast of the latest findings to gain a full understanding of these complex & powerful molecules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
THC and CBD are both cannabinoids, but THC is psychoactive and causes a “high” while CBD is non-psychoactive & has a variety of therapeutic uses, including pain relief and anti-inflammation.
How does CBD work for stoners?
CBD can moderate the psychoactive effects of THC, resulting in a less intense “high” feeling. In addition, CBD may offer potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety and inflammation.
How do CBD & THC work together?
CBD & THC can act synergistically, meaning that their combined effects can be greater than the sum of their individual effects. This can enhance the therapeutic properties of both.
Which is more effective, THC or CBD?
The effects of THC & CBD can vary depending on individual factors. THC is known for its psychoactive effects while CBD is known for its therapeutic applications. Both have their own unique benefits and potential.
Where is the best CBD oil produced?
Across Europe, Swiss CBD oils are among the best and highest quality products.
Resources
- Rock, E.M. and Parker, L.A. (2020). “Constituents of Cannabis Sativa.” Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, pp. 1–13. Read Article.
- Lu, H.-C. and Mackie, K. (2016). “An Introduction to the Endogenous Cannabinoid System.” Biological Psychiatry, 79(7), pp. 516–525. Read Article.
- Pantoja-Ruiz, C., Restrepo-Jiménez, P., Camilo Castañeda-Cardona, and Rosselli, D. (2022). “Cannabis and pain: a scoping review.” Brazilian Journal of Anesthesiology (English Edition), 72(1), pp. 142–151. Read Article.
- Anil, S.M., Hadar Peeri, and Hinanit Koltai (2022). “Medical Cannabis Activity Against Inflammation: Active Compounds and Modes of Action.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13. Read Article.
- Parker, L.A., Rock, E.M., and Limebeer, C.L. (2011). “Regulation of Nausea and Vomiting by Cannabinoids.” British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1411–1422. Read Article.
- Hampson (2023). “Neuroprotective Antioxidants from Marijuana.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 899. Read Article.
- Ng (2023). “Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).” Read Article.
- Franjo Grotenhermen (1999). “The Effects of Cannabis and THC.” Complementary Medicine Research, 6(3), pp. 7-11. Read Article.
- Kirkham, T.C. (2009). “Cannabinoids and Appetite: Food Craving and Food Pleasure.” International Review of Psychiatry, 21(2), pp. 163–171. Read Article.
- Niesink, R., and Margriet van Laar (2013). “Does Cannabidiol Protect Against Adverse Psychological Effects of THC?” Frontiers in Psychiatry, 4. Read Article.
- Jakub Mlost, Bryk, M., and Starowicz, K. (2020). “Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment: Focus on Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(22), pp. 8870–8870. Read Article.
- Skelley, J.W., Deas, C.M., Curren, Z., and Ennis, J. (2020). “Use of Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders.” Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 60(1), pp. 253–261. Read Article.
- Rosenberg, E.C., Tsien, R.W., Whalley, B.J., and Orrin Devinsky (2015). “Cannabinoids and Epilepsy.” Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), pp. 747–768. Read Article.
- Balachandran, P., ElSohly, M.A., and Hill, K.P. (2021). “Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: a Comprehensive Review.” Journal of General Internal Medicine, 36(7), pp. 2074–2084. Read Article.
Leonard Eberding is a pharmacist, an executive, and a board-certified specialist in medication therapy management. Mr. Eberding holds a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from SUNY Binghamton University and a doctorate in pharmacy and philosophy from the University of Florida. He is also a contributor to numerous health magazines, where he uses his knowledge of pharmacogenomics to help patients get on the right medications the first time, rather than relying on trial and error.
