Did you know that you can experience the benefits of cannabis without feeling high? This is how the debate between CBD vs THC began.
To the uninitiated, cannabis gets associated as making you sleepiness, move slow or laugh uncontrollably… however that is a misinformed perspective that forgets all the incredible benefits it can provide. The cannabis plant and it’s many different strains actually has many powerful components which can be isolated, extracted and concentrated to create products that provide many different benefits.
CBD and THC are the most common and can be found in indicas, sativas and hybrids. Even though they come from the same plant and have 3 letter acronyms there is significant differences. Before we dig into the specifics of each let’s consider the benefits CBD and THC can provide individually or together.
What are the benefits of CBD and THC?
- Pain relief
- Alleviating anxiety and depression
- Inspiring creativity
- Managing appetites
- Productivity
- Reduce alcoholism
- Sleep aid
And those are just some of the well-known benefits. Did you know the use of different cannabis products have been linked to relief of PTSD symptoms, have an impact on insulin levels which can help diabetics, and some studies even show it’s benefit when used as a cancer therapy. With the potential to aid so many problems, we don’t want any to miss out!
When it comes to THC, dosages tend to be higher and more frequent within a short period of time. While using more CBD tends to be a bit of a waste. CBD effects last longer and small dosages will go a long way. Remember, when you use CBD you do not feel high. That is not to say in the least that one is more superior than the other, it all depends on the consumer. Both have their benefits and both have minor inconveniences.
What is THC?
THC is an abbreviation for Tetrahydrocannabinol which is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant that will produces a high. When the body intakes THC, chemicals are released to create a euphoric feeling, which effects both the body and the mind. Connoisseurs appreciate the intoxication that distract the mind. THC dominant strains are quite common to come across, it is the main ingredient consumers are looking for when they purchase their marijuana and/or edibles. The number of benefits for both THC and CBD do not differ however some are more present in one than the other.
THC has a very short half-life in the body, only about 2.5 hours and also has increases the production of melatonin, which is responsible for inducing sleep. This is why most users find it difficult to stay awake or get up early in the morning. THC products being sold today are produced by extracting THC from cannabis flowers before being infused into the desired format. However, not all flowers contain THC, some strains of cannabis contain CBD (cannabidiol) which we will learn more about in the next section.
What is CBD?
CBD is abbreviated from the word Cannabidiol, which is another compound found in cannabis plants. And just like how THC is available in a number of formats so is CBD. You can find CBD based creams, oils, sprays and many more. These products will not get you “high”. CBD portrays more effects on the body, it contributes heavily to those who need pain relief. That is not to say it doesn’t affect the mind however. Consumers claim they feel clear minded upon taking CBD products with some claiming feel “looser” as if their pain is melting away and they are purely relaxed.
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is located throughout your body, but the most concentrated is in your brain. It is believed that it helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression while improving sleep. You can find many different types of CBD products on the market, but it is important to know what your needs are and what you’re looking for. So the first thing you should do is talk to your doctor to get the best advice for your specific needs.
Final Thoughts
Picking CBD or THC really comes down to the reason for using the cannabis product in the first place. THC is often associated with products like dried flower, hash, shatter or edibles, etc. It also provides the relaxing, euphoric feeling commonly associated with cannabis.
If you’re looking to use cannabis without feeling “high” then CBD is your solution. Remember it can be expensive because the extraction process adds another step in manufacturing comparing to just growing the plant.
Keep in mind, while CBD products may be more expensive, their effects last longer. When it comes to THC it may wear off faster, however it will get you high if that is desired. It is up to you to calibrate your cannabis cruise. both have their benefits and advantages/disadvantages. You simply need to know why you’re using the product and then it becomes easy to pick THC or CBD.
References and additional reading
- “The CBD Bible” by Dr. Götz Bulian and Robert Wright
- “Cannabis: A Complete Guide” by M. C. Reinhard
- “CBD: A Patient’s Guide to Medicinal Cannabis” by Leonard Leinow and Juliana Birnbaum
- “The Medical Marijuana Guidebook” by Mary Lynn Mathre
- “Understanding CBD: A Guide to Cannabidiol” by Healthline
- “The Complete Guide to THC & CBD” by Green Flower Media
- “CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?” by Mayo Clinic
These resources can provide in-depth information about the properties, effects, and uses of CBD and THC, and can be helpful for those who want to learn more about these compounds and the cannabis plant.
Tomas
wondering if the best option a mix of CBD and THC?
David Kline
Sorry about the late reply – did not see this comment. It really depends on what you’re using the cannabis for… CBD typically is used for pain relief and doesn’t deliver a “high”. Whereas THC is responsible for the high most commonly associated with cannabis.
Emilio
Does this mean hybrid is a combination of cbd and thc?
David Kline
Hybrid is a term that relates to the plant – ie. indica, sativa or a hybrid (cross between Indica and Sativa).
Check out this article for more details about hybrid strains: https://merryjade.com/differences-between-indica-sativa-hybrid-cannabis/
Jen
Hi David- what about CBG? It’s the same thing as CBD assuming.
David Kline
Awesome question Jen. I will have this post updated to include some more info.
But just a quick summary:
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a type of cannabinoid obtained from the cannabis plant. It’s often referred to as the mother of all cannabinoids. This is because other cannabinoids are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG.
Other more common cannabinoids obtained from cannabis plants include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBG is found in smaller quantities than other cannabinoids in cannabis plants. In most strains of the plant, only 1% of CBG can be found compared to 20 to 25% of CBD or 25 to 30% of THC.