As marijuana and cannabis become legalized in more and more States, you might be curious about where to purchase them or learn more. For instance, a Frederick Dispensary could be a good place to start if you’re in the area. CBD and THC are the two natural compounds that have received the most attention.
Cannabis is a type of plant that produces a thick substance called cannabinoids. Cannabis contains more than 100 chemicals. These chemicals cause similar drug-like effects in the body.
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most common cannabinoids found in cannabis products.
Both marijuana and hemp contain THC and CBD. Marijuana has much more THC in it than hemp. Hemp, on the other hand, contains a large amount of CBD.
Chemical Structure
CBD and THC share the same chemical composition — 21 carbon atoms and 30 hydrogen atoms. There are also two oxygen atoms. The difference is in the arrangement of the atoms. CBD and THC have different chemical properties and affect the body in different ways.
CBD and THC both work by releasing neurotransmitters into your brain. These substances can have a positive or negative impact on mood and sleep.
How CBD and THC Affect the Body
THC is marijuana’s main psychoactive component. THC is what causes people to feel “high.”
There are two different types of cannabinoid-receptors in the body. THC binds to receptors, mostly in the brain, that regulate pain, mood and other emotions. THC is responsible for the euphoric feeling and high you get from marijuana.
CBD does not cause a high. It’s believed that CBD works with other elements of the body to promote feelings of wellbeing.
Medical Benefits
Some people take CBD to treat everything from anxiety, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and Multiple Sclerosis. Some claim that it can help with insomnia and chronic back pain. CBD has not been shown to help with these conditions.
The FDA has approved a CBD-based medication. Epidiolex treats several severe childhood epilepsy.
Researchers are interested in CBD. The National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials Database shows that more than 160 CBD trials are active or recruiting.
THC is allowed in some states as part of medical cannabis. THC can help with things like:
- Multiple Sclerosis Pain
- Nerve Pain
- Parkinson disease Tremors
- Nausea
- Glaucoma
Side Effects
THC can cause:
- Concentration problems
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Balance
- Memory loss
CBD may cause side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Unrest in the stomach
- Tiredness
- Lightheadedness
- Crankiness
- Low Blood Pressure
- Drowsiness
CBD can also alter the way that some medications work. Speak to your doctor.
What’s Legal?
Cannabis laws are constantly changing. Federal law still prohibits the use of medical marijuana containing THC in many states. Some states have legalized recreational marijuana containing THC for personal use. It’s illegal in the United States.
In the Farm Bill of December 2018, Congress approved hemp. There are still restrictions on where and how CBD-containing products can be sold. Some CBD products are not allowed to be sold across state borders. If they are sold with the promise that CBD has medical benefits, then all CBD products are illegal. Check the laws in your state, or consult a local dispensary in Frederick MD if you’re in that area, before purchasing CBD or THC products.
Takeaway
CBD and THC have similar medical benefits. Both are considered safe. However, you should consider possible side effects or interactions with other medications. If you have questions, talk to your doctor or a qualified CBD or cannabis clinician before using.