The moment of clarity. Why people choose CBD instead of THC infused products
The production of both CBD and THC is on its rise now since these substances can offer benefits helpful for the treatment of both minor and chronic ailments. Before we dig deeper and find out the reasons why people prefer CBD to THC, let’s learn more about these two substances.
Everything you need to know about THC
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is a chemical that acts similarly to the body's cannabinoids. It joins cannabinoid receptors concentrated in the brain and activates them. This way, THC affects perception, memory, pleasure, coordination, thinking, and concentration.
THC stimulates brain cells so they release a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which results in euphoric experiences. Also, this chemical has an impact on the amount of information processed in the hippocampus that is responsible for memory functions.
When used properly, small doses of THC may enhance memory, according to some study findings. People also use it to prevent and treat nausea, so it's a good option for cancer patients who struggle with vomiting. Some individuals, particularly those with AIDS, take THC to increase the appetite.
Probably, the most important thing in THC intake is to avoid consuming more than your tolerance allows, as it can cause unpleasant sensations. These sensations mostly occur when consuming THC edibles, because people often eat a full serving instead of the amount they have acclimated to. Moreover, edibles are typically extremely high in potency, so their effects are more intense and last longer (even up to six hours).
Some essential information about CBD
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is one of the multiple cannabinoids found in Hemp, a cannabis plant. Scientists suggest that CBD is an effective remedy for seizure treatment, so in the United States, pharmaceutical CBD isolate is prescribed to patients with Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. In the European Union, it's used only as adjunctive therapy for the syndromes mentioned above. People typically take it in conjunction with the medicine called clobazam.
CBD can be taken in different ways, so patients can choose the most convenient one for them. Some people inhale its smoke, while others prefer vaping or using sprays. CBD is also available in capsules, liquids, and as a component of oils.
It's important to note that CBD doesn't have the same psychoactive properties like THC, so it won't make you high. Scientists argue that it doesn't have any intoxicating effects on the body. According to some studies, high doses of CBD may even diminish adverse effects caused by THC. In general, CBD is well tolerated by most people, but in some cases, it may cause fatigue, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.
CBD vs THC. Which one is better?
Surprisingly enough, both substances have the same atom structure. You may assume that it must ensure the same medicinal properties. But it's not really true. So why do these chemicals affect the body's functioning in different ways? The answer is: because of a subtle distinction in atoms arrangement.
As was said before, both CBD and THC acts similarly to endocannabinoids our bodies produce. This allows them to affect cannabinoid receptors located in the brain and cause neurotransmitters release.
Despite the similarities in chemical content, there is a big difference between CBD and THC psychoactive features. As CBD can't bind well to CB1 receptors, it doesn’t trigger a sense of euphoria, in contrast to THC. So one won’t feel high after taking substances with CBD.
It’s important to note that both CBD and THC can be found in the body’s fat. Hence, people who are going to have a drug test need to bear in mind that these chemicals may be revealed even after 1-2 weeks after consumption. Although not every testing procedure can prove the presence of CBD in blood, some special tests can identify this chemical.
Typically, drug tests are applied to check THC levels, so it will definitely be visible on the screening if one has taken it before. Since hemp can also produce some small amounts of THC, you should avoid it in order to get a negative test result. In fact, even so-called THC-free products may contain this chemical, therefore, try to avoid hemp at all before testing.
CBD and THC have different medical properties, so it is the main reason why people choose one substance or another. Healthcare providers suggest that CBD may help restore calm to a everyday stress, and bring you back to a state of equilibrium. It also may helps to alleviate pain related to inflammation from a streneuos workout. THC is typically used for nausea, insomnia, and low appetite.
Final thoughts
As you see, there are some differences in structure, medical properties, and uses of CBD and THC. Hence, before choosing the product, people analyze what kind of problem they have and which substance can solve it better. Depending on the goal and personal tolerance, individuals turn to CBD or THC.
written by Tia M., Editor and Contributor at AskGrowers