CBD vs. THC

Are you interested in the medical benefits of the hemp plant? If so, you are probably looking at the legalization of hemp-derived CBD. Researchers are looking into the benefits of hemp-derived CBD when it comes to complementary and integrative health.

For example, CBD may be helpful in the treatment of chronic pain, the side effects of cancer treatment, and sleep problems. Even the National Cancer Institute has been working with academic research institutions to learn more about the safety and side effects of CBD and THC.

With more and more hemp products on the market, what should you know?

CBD and THC Are Not the Same Things

First, it is important to understand that hemp-derived CBD products are not the same as THC. They are both natural compounds that are isolated from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa).

When people are talking about the psychoactive effects of marijuana, they are usually talking about THC. Recreational marijuana that gets people high has high concentrations of THC.

THC binds to the body’s cannabinoid receptors in the brain, causing them to communicate differently with the rest of the body, causing people to feel high.

In contrast, CBD-dominant products do not get people high. What else do people need to know about the hemp plant?

Everyone needs to speak with a licensed physician and receive professional medical advice before they take these products for the first time.

Breaking Down Other Differences

While this is a basic overview of CBD vs. THC, it is important to take a closer look at a few other differences as well. These include:

Potential Health Benefits

CBD products can help people with a wide variety of medical problems. For example, some people have taken CBD to help treat multiple sclerosis, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia.

CBD has become a hot topic for scientists during the past few years. Therefore, there may be other benefits of CBD uncovered as the research progresses.

THC can be used to help with a wide variety of other conditions. For example, some people take THC to help with nausea, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, and nerve pain.

At the same time, THC can also cause people to get high, so it is important for people to use this substance lawfully, carefully, and speak with a doctor before doing so.

The Chemical Structures

It might also be helpful to take a look at the chemical structures. CBD and THC have the same general chemical formula. Each molecule uses 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and two oxygen atoms.

Even though they use the same number of atoms, they are arranged differently. Therefore, the molecular structure is different.

As a result, CBD and THC interact with receptors differently. That is why they impact the body differently as well. It is this molecular structure and receptor-binding that impacts how CBD and THC impact memory, sleep, mood, and pain.

Interactions with Other Medications

Both CBD and THC could potentially interact with other medications. That is why people need to speak to a doctor before they take CBD or THC.

This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications. For example, CBD or THC could cause certain medications to be metabolized slower or faster. This could impact how these medications interact with the body.

The Legality of CBD and THC

Lots of people are also curious about legal issues when it comes to CBD and THC. When it comes to cannabis, laws are changing all the time. Even though many states allow medical marijuana, recreational THC may not be allowed in every area.

In December 2018, Congress legalized hemp when passing the Farm Bill. This means that a lot of locations allow CBD to be sold regularly. At the same time, there are still regulations regarding how CBD products can be sold. For example, they may not be allowed across state lines.

For this reason, it is important for everyone to check on the laws in their region. That way, they can enjoy the benefits of CBD without having to worry about breaking local laws.

The Isolation Process

Because the cannabis plant produces CBD and THC, growers need to separate these two substances. That way, everyone knows exactly what they are getting when they purchase CBD or THC.

Usually, these substances are isolated using short path distillation. When this is combined with Winterization and heat, the two substances can be separated. Because CBD and THC boil at different temperatures, it is this boiling point separation that is responsible for dividing CBD and THC.

Choosing the Right Hemp-Derived CBD Products

With changes taking place following the Controlled Substances Act, people should pay close attention to Drug Enforcement Administration before they decide to purchase CBD or THC. With CBD legality changing constantly, particularly as it relates to medical cannabis, everyone should think carefully about the CBD product they use.

A few options for CBD products include:

• CBD topical products such as creams and lotions
• CBD edibles such as gummies and candies
• CBD tinctures
• CBD vape products

Everyone needs to take a close look at the label, so they understand exactly what they are taking. CBD concentrations should be listed clearly.

Medical Benefits from the Hemp Plant: Start Low and Go Slow

Everyone should start with a low dose that they are using products derived from hemp for the first time. It is important to pay close attention to the psychoactive properties of the main psychoactive compound.

People should not increase their dosages of CBD or THC until they know how these compounds are going to impact them. That way, they can maximize the benefits of CBD and THC without leading to many side effects.

Find the Best CBD Products from Tranquil Earth

These are just a few of the most important points that people need to keep in mind when it comes to THC and CBD. There are lots of drug tests that test for THC; however, people need to think carefully if they are worried about a drug test in the future.

If you are looking for the best CBD products, then Tranquil Earth can help you. We pay close attention to the ingredients that we include in all of our products so that you understand exactly what you are getting.

It would be our pleasure to help you as well. Take a look at our selection today, and see how CBD products can improve your life!

Tell us how you use hemp products in your daily wellness routine on Instagram, on Facebook, or in the comments below!