CBD AND THC: What Are They?

As our knowledge in the medical field continues to grow, the different leaders are now more open to drugs that many consider illegal. Some states look more into drugs like marijuana and cannabis as many medical professionals claim they can help with different illnesses if taken correctly. Several states in America are now legalizing marijuana and cannabis for medical purposes.

Cannabis, more commonly known as Hemp, is a plant that contains these chemicals called CBD and THC, which are found in marijuana and cannabis. Marijuana and Hemp belong to the same species, Cannabis sativa, and have different components.

Now that we know the difference between marijuana and hemp, let us look more into their chemical structure. The plant hemp or cannabis produces compounds called cannabinoids. Some examples of these cannabinoids are the BCD or cannabidiol and THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol. BCD and THC are some of the main compounds found in the plants of marijuana, hemp, and other cannabis products. The difference between marijuana and hemp is the components that influence the brain. Hemp contains less THC than marijuana. THC is the chemical that makes the user feel “high.”

What are CBDs and THCs, and their Differences?

Both CBD and THC affect the endocrine system. The endocrine system is the system in your body that plays a role in maintaining homeostasis – the state of balance in one’s physical and chemical conditions. This system maintains homeostasis by creating, distributing, and regulating the hormones in your body. They can also are involved in one’s appetite, memory, sleep, and mood.

CBD

Research shows that cannabidiol is an effective treatment for epilepsy. No clinical research proves that BCD can help with chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia. However, are also claims based on the users’ experience that this BCD can help lessen or control anxiety and pain. There are claims that people who suffer from epilepsy, opioid-dependency disorder, and glaucoma get therapeutic benefits from marijuana which contains both CBD and THC (but more THC than hemp). CBDs are considered to be sedatives. They do not or have significantly less THC, meaning they are not psychoactive; thus, they do not make you feel hyper or high.

THC

As mentioned earlier, products that are deprived of THC do not give one a “high” feeling. This is because THC is psychoactive. Psychoactive substances affect the brain in many different ways. It can be hormones, awareness, thoughts, or even behaviors. Psychoactive substances don’t always mean that they are harmful to your body; they simply play a role, so if it is taken appropriately, you will be fine. Examples of psychoactive substances are caffeine which can be found in coffee and energy drinks, marijuana, and pain medicines. Unlike CBD, THCs are considered to be stimulants.

Benefits of CBD and THC

Based on the doctor’s prescription, many people who suffer from different diseases take CBD and THC products. CBD products can help with diabetes, arthritis, and Crohn’s disease. Since THC is psychoactive, meaning that in the wrong dosage, one can have adverse and almost irreversible effects, there are fewer states that legalize this substance. They are limited to being used only for nausea, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease tremors, multiple sclerosis pain, and nerve pain. They come in many forms, oils, and pills; there are even CBD & THC gummies. These products help the patients take the said substances easier.

Since CBDs and THCs affect one’s internal system, especially the central nervous and endocrine systems, the patient should take these substances cautiously. You should only take them if your doctor prescribes them and strictly follow the rules. The capability of CBD and THC in the medical world is still yet to be figured out. More researchers are looking into this. Who knows how far we can use and alter these substances to our benefit?