CBD and THC are the two of the most recognizable cannabinoids on the market.
While they have similarities when it comes to their origin, CBD and THC are opposites when it comes to the high. Both are cannabinoids, but THC is the product that will make you feel high, while CBD is non-intoxicating.
Apart, they have their own applications and health benefits. More often than not, you’ll find a product includes a balance of CBD and THC with the levels of each creating different desired effects.
What is CBD?
One of the most popular and well-known cannabinoids, CBD naturally occurs in both hemp and cannabis plants. Producers and breeders will source their CBD from both, but the majority of product on the market will be hemp-derived.
CBD is highly prominent across the country, and that’s because it’s a legal substance. The 2018 Farm Bill established a legal differentiation between hemp and other strains of cannabis, due to hemp’s low levels of THC. In addition, the average product won’t get you high – which makes it a broadly trouble-free zone in the eyes of the law.
Your body absorbs CBD and THC through its endocannabinoid system – with primary receptors CB1 and CB2. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t bind to those receptors, but instead helps regulate them.
Products that offer a mix of THC with CBD are great for new cannabis users, because the CBD in the product helps balance out some of the more intoxicating effects of the THC.
CBD also has a number of health benefits, both on a holistic and medicinal level. It provides a lighter, anxiety-relieving sensation.
Lower doses CBD provide anxiety relief and a mild sense of relaxation rather than a euphoric high. It has been found to help people regulate their sleep cycles, and also shows potential to boost immunity. When used topically, CBD is also beneficial in reducing inflammation to help manage pain.
In high doses found in products like CBD concentrates, you will get a more full-body sense of relaxation while your mind typically remains quite clear.
What is THC?
While CBD is more widely available, THC is one of the most revered cannabinoids in the cannabis community. It’s more potent, euphoric effects are used in medical treatment all over the world.
THC gets your high by binding to your body’s CB1 receptors in the brain.
Because THC is more potent a high, recreational use is highly regulated and, in some cases, illegal. Marijuana and THC are still illegal at the federal level, but legal in some states. That being said, there are plenty of products that include THC and are completely legal.
Thanks to the Farm Bill, hemp-derived stains that meet certain parameters are federally legal, but the level of legality varies from state to state. Everything we sell at ATL Dispensary is 100% legal in the state of Georgia.
What are the Medical Benefits?
The medical benefits of THC and CBD are based on a limited amount of research, but the amount and range of studies are growing. That being said, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that is being backed up by some scientific data.
CBD Benefits
Using CBD to treat certain types of epilepsy and seizure disorders is one of the most well-documented medical applications. In 2018, the FDA approved the CBD extract Epidiolex to treat certain seizure disorders after conducting multiple clinical trials. The news caught the attention of the New York Times because all of the trials conducted were “double-blind” – a “gold standard” method wherein neither the patients nor the doctors know which group took the placebo or the medication.
Other applications of CBD include managing pain and inflammation, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia among other uses.
Because CBD is great at regulating endocannabinoid receptors, it has shown potential in helping patients going through opioid withdrawals.
THC Benefits
In the medical world, THC isn’t revered for its euphoric effects – in fact, it is not a widely accepted form of treatment. Despite this, products that contain marijuana or THC are highly recognized ways to manage the pain and nausea that accompany invasive treatments like chemotherapy and radiation used to fight cancer.
Other applications that show promise include treating patients migraines, anxiety or depression and insomnia. There have also been cases of THC used to treat chronic pain in place of the highly-addictive alternative of opioids.
CBD & THC: Finding the Right Balance
Trying to find the right balance of THC versus CBD in a product is all about what you are personally looking for in terms of effect.
If you are looking to manage physical pain or inflammation, go for products that have a higher CBD content. This is also a great option if you are highly sensitive to THC.
A balanced CBD vs. THC product is great for beginners and people who are sensitive to THC. It’s a great option for pain relief or managing sleep.
All this to say, the way you consume the product will produce different levels of results as well. While the actual dosage can vary from product to product, the best way to know what you’re getting is to purchase products that are lab-tested. It’ll say it right on the label.
The final step to finding the right balance, track down a dispensary you can trust. If you’re looking for quality CBD and THC products, the staff at ATL Dispensary can help you find the right balance for you.
