If you've ever heard of cannabis, you've likely heard of THC and CBD. These two compounds are the most abundant cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but they have very different effects on the body. While THC is responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis use, CBD has been promoted for its potential anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties.

THC edibles are a popular and simple way to consume THC, good for both recreational and medical purposes. The question arises: What sets them apart from CBD edibles?

In this article, we'll explore the key differences between these two compounds and their effects on the body.

CBD vs. THC: Basics

The first thing to know about CBD and THC is that they are both cannabinoids. They are two of more than 150 cannabinoids discovered in cannabis. And what are cannabinoids?

Well, they are those chemical compounds capable of interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the human body and brain through the endocannabinoid system.

THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, can produce a sense of satisfaction and pleasure (the 'high') when used recreationally. At lower doses, it may have medicinal benefits, such as reducing chronic pain, promoting sleep, and increasing appetite in some medical conditions.

On the other hand, CBD, or cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory properties, reduces anxiety, and helps in the treatment of refractory epilepsy.

What is CBD?

CBD, the "hot ingredient" right now, is one of hundreds of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Most importantly, this cannabinoid has no psychotropic effects. That is, it has no effect on our mental capacities. It can also counteract THC's intoxicating effects.

It gained popularity due to its proven anticonvulsant properties and has been studied as an active principle capable of preventing the attacks caused by several refractory epilepsies.

Benefits of CBD

• CBD does not cause the intoxication experienced with high THC doses.
• Several studies have found that it has anti-inflammatory properties.
• It helps with anxiety by reducing stress levels, making it easier to manage related symptoms and improving concentration.
• It works as an antioxidant, and more people are using it in skincare products. Researchers are studying it to see if it can help with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne, suggesting possible therapeutic benefits.
• By influencing brain receptors, it contributes to seizure control, serving as a supportive element in treating refractory epilepsy in both children and adults.

What is THC?

THC, the main ingredient of the cannabis plant produces euphoric effects when consumed in high concentrations. But its effects go much further.

THC has significant narcotic properties, is particularly helpful in reducing chronic pain in patients, and is a great ally to stimulate the appetite and reduce nausea, which is why it is often recommended to people who are being treated with chemotherapy.

Benefits of THC

• In general, it has an effect similar to dopamine in the brain, producing a sense of well-being and enjoyment (feeling 'happy').
• Although it is commonly associated with "recreational" use, it can be effective in relieving chronic pain when used medicinally.
• It improves the quality of sleep in patients suffering from insomnia.
• THC improves appetite in patients suffering from anorexia caused by HIV or cancer.
• It helps cancer patients suffering from nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

CBD vs. THC: What They Have in Common?

While these cannabinoids have different profiles, they do share some similarities.

Therapeutic Benefits

CBD and THC have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Studies suggest that CBD and THC could be helpful for various health issues like chronic pain, anxiety problems, and epilepsy.

Variety of Consumption Methods

CBD and THC can be consumed in various forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topical creams. The method of consumption can affect how quickly and how long the effects last.

Interaction with Other Medications

Both CBD and THC can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications.

In general, even though CBD and THC are different, they do share some similarities, such as the ability to treat various health conditions and interact with the body's endocannabinoid system.

What's the Difference Between CBD and THC Edible?

The key difference between CBD and THC edibles is the presence of cannabinoids. CBD edibles come from hemp contain a high concentration of CBD; some may contain a small amount of THC.

THC edibles can come from marijuana or hemp and have more THC. CBD and THC both come from the cannabis plant and interact with our body's natural endocannabinoid system.

Here are some important differences between these two edibles:

Psychoactive Effects: THC edibles are psychoactive, which means they might affect your mental state and provide a "high" sensation. On the other hand, CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a high.

Legality: In most countries, THC is classified as a controlled substance and is illegal to possess or use without a prescription. On the other hand, CBD is legal in many countries and can be found in various products, including oils, capsules, and topical creams.

Medical Benefits: Both THC and CBD have potential therapeutic benefits, but they work in different ways. THC is often used to treat conditions such as pain, nausea, and muscle spasms, while CBD is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties.

Side Effects: THC edibles can cause side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, and impaired coordination. However, CBD is generally well-tolerated and does not have significant side effects.

Drug Testing: THC edibles can be up on drug tests for several days or even weeks after consumption, although CBD is rarely identified.

How Do CBD and THC Affect the Body?

Both compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, but their effects are different. While CBD has no effect on our mental abilities, THC does impact part of our brain. This is the main difference between how both cannabinoids affect our bodies.

In general, the effects of CBD include reduced anxiety, decreased seizures, and muscle relaxation. THC has psychoactive effects, but also narcotic, relaxing, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Better together than apart

The cannabinoids in cannabis work better together, creating what's called the entourage effect. This means taking one cannabinoid in combination with other plant compounds enhances the positive effects. This is due to a synergy between the various active components of cannabis, as they are all naturally consumed together.

Moreover, it is scientifically proven that consuming CBD along with other cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant is more effective.

By doing this, we can improve how well the body absorbs the benefits of cannabidiol. Since CBD acts against the psychoactive effects of THC, taking them together slows down the high caused by THC. This way, we can enjoy the plant without its psychoactive effects.

Is CBD as Powerful as THC?

In terms of potency, THC is generally considered to be more powerful than CBD due to its psychoactive effects. However, both compounds have potential therapeutic benefits and their effects depend on several factors, including dosage, method of consumption, and individual body chemistry.

The effects of THC and CBD can be changed by other things in the cannabis plant, like terpenes. Also, how THC and CBD make you feel can be different depending on the specific kind of cannabis being used.

What's the Difference Between CBD High and THC High?

A THC high is characterized by a euphoric, psychoactive effect that can alter perception, mood, and behavior. THC binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, producing high and potentially impairing cognitive and motor functions.

On the other hand, CBD does not produce a high or altered perception or behavior. Even though it works with the endocannabinoid system, it doesn't attach to the brain's CB1 receptors like THC does. Instead, CBD modulates the activity of the endocannabinoid system, offering various potential health benefits without the mind-altering effects of THC.

Why THC Edible?

Eating THC-infused edibles is a safe and discreet way to feel its effects without the harmful smoke. You don't need any tools like pipes or lighters; just take them easily. Edibles come in various food and drink options, like candies, gummies, and ready-to-drink beverages.

Unlike the quick "high" from smoking THC, the effects of edibles come on slowly and last longer. People may forget they've consumed an edible until they feel its effects. If you choose THC edibles for their benefits, start with a small amount and take it slow, as you can always have more but can't reduce consumption.

What's Better for Pain CBD or THC?

Both CBD and THC can help with pain relief, but they do it differently and may work better for different kinds of pain.

THC is often used for pain relief because it can change how you feel and activate the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps control pain. It can also decrease swelling and muscle spasms, which might help with pain from conditions like multiple sclerosis.

On the other hand, CBD might also help with pain and swelling but in a different way. CBD works with the body's endocannabinoid system in a more complicated way, regulating its activity and potentially reducing pain and swelling without making you feel high or affecting how well you think. CBD also protects the nerves, which could be helpful for chronic pain like nerve pain.

Summary

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are two of the main compounds in the cannabis plant. Although they have some similarities, they are also quite different. CBD doesn't make you feel high and is legal in many countries. On the other hand, THC is psychoactive, gives a euphoric feeling, and is only legal in specific places with strict rules.

CBD and THC also interact with the body's endocannabinoid system in different ways, leading to different effects on the body. CBD can help with inflammation, and pain, and protect the nerves. THC is used for pain relief, increasing appetite, and reducing nausea.

Lastly, THC and CBD are consumed in different ways. THC is commonly smoked, vaporized, or eaten in edibles like gummies and candies. On the other hand, CBD is added to various wellness and skincare products such as oil extracts, topicals, beverages, and edibles.