What Is The Difference Between CBD and THC?

If you landed on this article, it is that you are probably looking for information on the famous cannabidiol molecule, CBD: you have certainly heard of it, perhaps you have already tested one of its derivatives, and you’re probably looking to dig deeper into the question.

This article is intended to be informative: it is not a question of whether we are for or against the legalization of cannabis, but rather to know exactly what it is and to understand the difference between CBD products and what traditionally called “weed” (cannabis with a high THC level).

Cannabinoids: distinct effects

THC (for tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (for cannabidiol) are two cannabinoids, that is, two molecules produced, among other things, by cannabis. We write here “among others” because contrary to an idea all too often accepted, and which however is fraught with meaning, cannabinoids are molecules that can also be synthesized or observed … in the human body! In the latter case, we will then speak of endogenous cannabinoid, while in the case of THC, produced by the plant only, it will be a question of plant cannabinoids, or phytocannabinoids.

If THC has been studied for a long time, probably because of its success with all strata of our civilizations throughout history, it is only in recent years that researchers around the world have focused on the effects and impacts of CBD. It must be believed, however, that the latter still suffers from the bad reputation of THC: both perceived as “new soft drug” for the authorities, and as “false new stoned” by smokers in general, CBD has apparently he struggled to make his way to us. However, little by little, we begin to hear about it, and especially to get an idea closer to reality. This is a real difference between CBD and THC.

What is the impact of THC and CBD?

It is essential here to understand that although coming from a similar type of chemical substance, CBD and THC have absolutely not the same impact or the same interest. Cannabinoids can be thought of as molecules that activate “cannabis receptors” in the human body: the molecule, when consumed, will bind to receptors. These receptors can either be in your brain or in your body. And that’s the difference.

THC will have a psychoactive effect: a feeling of drunkenness which is particular to it (“high / hovering” effect. We use it of course for its recreational effects, but also for its many therapeutic virtues (we will not extend our advantage on this subject, but you will find without any difficulty a very large documentation on this subject).

CBD (cannabidiol) is, like THC, among the best known and most studied phytocannabinoids. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD does not “kick”, “does not hover”, is not accompanied by any feeling of intoxication: it has no psychoactive effect on your brain. Nevertheless, its antipsychotic properties and its natural virtues make it an extremely interesting product to observe.

The potential benefits of CBD: here are a few examples drawn from existing literature on the subject:

  • Thanks to its soothing and calming properties (the sedative effect of CBD, demonstrated by numerous studies, partly explains why varieties with a high CBD content are known for their “stoned” effect …), CBD can help fight sleep disorders and anxiety;
  • CBD would lower blood sugar levels;
  • It can act with benefit against pain in general, against arthritis, and as an anti-inflammatory;
  • It does not cause any form of anxiety, unlike THC;It has antipsychotic properties, and is being studied as a treatment for schizophrenia;
  • Helps soothe convulsions and other nausea.