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CBD vs THC – Understanding these Key Cannabinoids
As the use of cannabis is being legalized by one nation after another, it is normal for questions about THC and CBD to arise. Cannabis contains more than 100 cannabinoids and the most abundant and the most researched ones are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC and CBD are chemically similar to endocannabinoids (cannabinoids secreted by the body). That is why they can interact directly with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that interact with cannabinoids produced by plants and the body. Both types of cannabinoids benefit the body when they interact with the system. So far scientists have uncovered two types of receptors within the system. These are:
- CB1 receptors concentrated in the brain and the central nervous system. They are responsible for body processes such as memory, thinking, emotions, and motor coordination.
- CB2 receptors found throughout the immune system and the central nervous system.
- Below we discuss the similarities and major differences between CBD and THC which will help users to make choices when they buy products.
About CBD and THC
CBD is the major cannabinoid produced by the hemp plant. While the plant produces both CBD and THC, it contains a higher concentration of CBD (up to 40%), and less than 0.3% THC. This makes it the ideal source of CBD. CBD for medicinal purposes is extracted from dried hemp stalks, stems, flowers, and leaves using CO2 extraction method. It is generally available in the form of oils, gels, extracts, gummies, and supplements. People are coming up with more novel CBD products.
Chemical structure
Psychoactive effects
Legality
One by one, nations have been legalizing cannabis for medicinal use in the past few years, but some nations are behind. Therefore, before buying any cannabis products, check out the laws of the nation where you plan to buy. In New Zealand, medicinal cannabis is legal as long as users get it through a prescription from a doctor, but the use of marijuana for recreational purposes remains illegal. For many countries where cannabis is legal, CBD must have 0.3% or less THC in order to be legal.
Medical benefits
Health Benefits of THC
- Pain and inflammation. This benefits people suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, chronic pain, and many other painful conditions.
- Muscle spasticity
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome.
- Psychosis or mental disorders.
- Migraines and headaches.
- Low appetite.
- Depression and anxiety.
Health Benefits Of CBD
- Acute and chronic pain including migraines and headaches.
- Inflammation: Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, diverticulitis, etc.
- Brain injury: Concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
- Muscle spasticity.
- Low appetite and nausea.
- Mental disorders: Anxiety, stress, epilepsy, depression, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Chronic fatigue.
- Addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
- Autoimmune diseases.
Side effects
When taken in high doses, CBD can have side effects such as tiredness, diarrhoea, and changes in weight and appetite. However, scientists found that it has milder side effects compared to commonly used medicines. What you need to watch out for is drug interaction! Therefore, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using it if you are on other medication.
- Red eyes
- Memory loss
- Increased heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Slow reaction times
- Coordination problems
Drug testing
THC In Drug Tests
CBD In Drug Tests
At the CBD Oil NZ team we're looking to provide you with up to date information on CBD in New Zealand regarding new research and regulation.
Synthetic Cannabinoids
Scientists have been able to synthesise thousands of natural molecules and cannabinoids are no exception. While molecularly similar, synthetic cannabinoids are far inferior to consuming the real plant and its natural extracts. Synthetic cannabinoids were originally created for cannabinoid research focusing on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBD Oil for Managing Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are some of the most challenging and complex disorders to treat in the medical world. With a wide variety of symptoms and sometimes with disorders running in parallel that further add to the complexity of treatment, any kind of natural remedy that actually works is often welcomed. Cannabidiol (CBD) has made its way in into a large number of autoimmune treatment protocols as a natural solution providing real results without the negative side effects of some typical treatment.
Consuming CBD Oil – How do I do it?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is most commonly consumed as an oil, mixed with a carrier such as olive oil, coconut oil (MCT) or hemp seed oil. When CBD is consumed with fatty acids this maximises the bioavailability as it binds to the fat molecules during the absorption and digestion process. This same concept applies to other fat soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E and K. As a general rule, consuming CBD with a fatty meal will improve absorption rates.