A Look at the Major Differences Between CBD and THC

Are you curious about the effectiveness of products containing CBD and THC for body and mind wellness? While they are the main active ingredients found in hemp and cannabis plants, there are major differences between the two cannabinoids. Let us take a close observation of how they differ in definitions and the most recent research studies of their efficiencies of treating specific ailments.

Since the enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill, consumers and study participants are the only reliable sources to learn the usefulness of CBD and THC for physical and mental health. In most US states, products comprising CBD are legal with specific restrictions, while both cannabinoids are fully legal in approximately 17 states. Each state in the US has limitations on both substances for medical treatments and/or recreational use.

What is CBD?

CBD is a cannabidiol that comes from the hemp plant, the same species as the marijuana plant. It contains 0.3 percent or less of THC and has no intoxicating or psychoactive properties to cause a high effect. According to the World Health Organization, there is no evidence of probable dependency and abuse of cannabidiol in humans.

Products containing no more than 0.3 percent are no longer treated as a controlled substance under the CSA (Controlled Substance Act). Companies and manufacturers producing CBD products with hemp must meet the requirements of the US Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act.

Benefits of Cannabidiol

• Helpful for reducing anxiety of people experiencing a social anxiety disorder. A study of 24 participants in a test for public stimulation speaking concluded that CBD helped to reduce their anxieties. Other studies suggest it helps to reduce anxiety in people suffering from chronic pain.
• Reduces inflammation caused by arthritis and relieves pain associated with damages and injuries to the nerve. The benefits are small in some patients based on limited studies, whereas consumers’ testimonials reveal it provides pain relief.
• Helps to treat insomnia in people having difficulties falling and staying asleep. There are many studies of cannabinoids used to improve sleeping habits. Evidence proves users of CBD products helped them receive a better quality of sleep without disturbances and difficulties falling asleep.

CBD products with infused hemp extract are available on the market for physical and mental wellness in oil tinctures, soft gels or capsules, gummies, and topical. Research studies continue to advance its effectiveness on humans and animals.

What is Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol?

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, known as THC, is the main active cannabinoid and compound found in marijuana plants. It has psychoactive or intoxicating properties and contains over 0.3 percent of THC. Users of THC products with higher percentages of THC on a dry weight basis receive an intoxicating or high effect. Out of the 50 states, a few of them legalized THC for recreational and medical uses.

Benefits of THC

• In lower doses, it treats anxiety and chronic stress in some patients under their doctor’s supervision.
• Reduces tumor growth.
• Increases the appetite of patients suffering from eating disorders.
• Relieves nausea and vomiting symptoms caused by chemotherapy treatments in cancer patients.

The usefulness of CBD and THC has similar benefits for relieving anxiety, stress, and pain. An important difference between both cannabinoids is the percentage amount of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Another significant factor to consider is the legal status of these products in your state. You can find CBD products in most US states or may need a doctor’s prescription to use THC products in some states.