Cannabis contains over 400 chemical compounds such as cannabinoids, terpenoids, flavinoids, and omega fatty acids.
In recent years, interest has grown in the potential health effects and benefits of cannabis.
Much of this interest has centered on these two cannabinoids.
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This interest will likely grow as cannabis and marijuana products become legal in more states.
A number of different products have emerged that contain CBD, THC, or both.
Such products are designed to alleviate ailments such asstress, anxiety, and insomnia.
This article discusses the differences between CBD and THC, their medicinal uses, and their potential effects.
What is CBD?
It can be derived from hemp or marijuana plants.
These are both cannabis plants with the main difference being the quantity of THC in each.
What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
Dopamineis a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood and pleasure.
By triggering a higher-than-normal release of dopamine, THC causes people to experience feelings of euphoria.
Because THC impacts the brain’s reward system, THC can also be addictive.
Around 30% of people who use marijuana develop an addiction.
This risk is much greater for those who begin consuming marijuana during adolescence.
While THC and CBD share similarities, there are some key differences between the two compounds.
THC, on the other hand, does have psychoactive effects.
It is the compound that produces the high that people associate with marijuana.
Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that act in the brain.
Neurotransmittersare chemical messengers that relay signals between nerve cells in the body.
By mimicking endocannabinoids, they bind with receptors and cause different effects in the body.
THC, on the other hand, is derived from marijuana.
It is important to know which plant your CBD products are derived from before purchasing.
Because THC has psychoactive effects, it may produce more immediate pain relief.
However, CBD can help reduce inflammation, which is useful for long-term effectiveness.
Some evidence suggests that taking both CBD and THC may provide the greatest pain relief.
Research also suggests that marijuana can alter brain development and may lead to cognitive impairment.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse also notes that THC alters how the hippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex function.
Both marijuana and THC are included in the U.S.
Controlled Substances Act, which means that they are not legal under federal law.
The CDC and FDA both recommend avoiding all e-cigarette and vaping products, especially those containing THC oil.
It can also be added to lotions and salves to apply to skin.
CBD can also be taken orally as a tincture, oil, capsule, or spray.
Edible CBD products are also popular and include gummies, candies, and beverages.
Your doctor may suggest certain products or dosages depending on your needs.
Studies have found, however, that CBD may help mitigate these effects.
Some evidence suggests that the combined effects of CBD and THC may be dependent on dose.
Mislabeling of Products Containing CBD and THC
Many CBD products do contain trace amounts of THC.
These substances might impact how medications are metabolized by your body.
They can also heighten feelings of anxiety in some cases.
Check your state laws to ensure that these products are legal where you live.
Because CBD does not possess intoxicating properties,it does not have the potential to cause addiction.
This can produce feelings of pleasure and euphoria, as well as create the potential for dependence and addiction.
If you think you might have an addiction to THC, talk to your doctor about available treatments.
Types of therapy that might be helpful include:
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