The legal use of marijuana is continuously growing over the years. At the same time, consumers are looking for other options for cannabis products. Cannabis contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) which are natural compounds. Although CBD and THC are from the same genus, they have despicable differences.
The chemical structure
The molecular structures of both compounds are the same that is 21 carbon, 30 hydrogen, and two oxygen atoms. However, the compounds have a slight difference in the arrangement of particles, which affects the body differently. The endocannabinoids of the body have the same chemical formulae as CBD and THC. The similarity involves the interaction with the recipient of the cannabinoid. The contact of the compound affects neurotransmitters of the brain. Neurotransmitters are responsible for relaying information between cells and help in pain, sleep, immune function, and stress.
The psychoactive components
The psychoactive effects of both and THC are different despite their similarity in chemical structure. Both compounds psychoactive in different ways: The CBD does not produce high characteristic results compared to THC. The purpose of CBD is it helps in managing seizures, anxiety, and depression.
On the other hand, THC gives the euphoria or high effect when it binds with brain receptors. The cannabinoids (CB1) and CBD binds weakly or not at all. To experience sedation and joy using CBD, the THC1 must secure with CB1. In turn, it helps in reducing the unsolicited psychoactive effects.
The legality
The evolution of laws governing cannabis consumption is constantly changing, especially in the United States of America. Federal law considers CBD as a schedule 1 drug. The Controlled substance Act removed hemp, but other federal departments such as Drug Enforcement (DEA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still consider it a Schedule 1 drug.
Several states legalized medical marijuana, which contains high levels of THC. However, any licensed physician must prescribe marijuana. Additionally, some states moved to legalize the recreational use of cannabis and THC.
The benefit THC vs CBD
The medical liberty CBD and THC have are amicable. The compounds offer relief for some medical conditions. Many people prefer using CBD to THC because of the euphoric effect experienced when using THC. CBD also Lack side effect.
The approval of Epidiolex as the first prescription drug containing CBD was a significant milestone in medicine. The drug treats any rare form hard to control epilepsy.
The benefit of CBD is it helps in controlling inflammations, depression, migraine, anxiety, seizures, psychosis disorders, pain, nausea, and inflammatory bowel disease.
The benefit of THC is it helps in muscle spasticity, anxiety, low appetite, pain, insomnia, nausea, and glaucoma.
The side effects CBD vs THC
CBD has a high tolerance in both small and high doses. Some research suggests that any side effects associated with the drug are drug-to-drug contact mixing CBD with Other medication.
The THC has temporary side effects such as anxiety, dry mouth, red eyes, memory loss, slower reaction, and increased heart palpitation.
Some of the side effects of CBD include diarrhoea, dizziness, fatigue, appetite changes, and weight loss.
The side effects of the compounds are because of psychoactive properties.
