Now that you have learned about the health benefits that CBD has to offer, you may be asking yourself, “How is CBD oil different than THC oil?” It is true that there are a wide variety of products available on the market today. This can make the process of shopping for CBD products confusing at times. The following information has been gathered to help show you the difference between CBD oil and THC oil and help you choose the right product to suit your needs.
What is the Difference Between THC Oil and CBD Oil?
To understand the difference between various CBD formulations, we first need a little background about the endocannabinoid system and how these products work within the body.
The Human Endocannabinoid System
The human brain and central nervous system contain a vast number of cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are also present in our internal organs, digestive tract, and immune cells. When these receptors are activated with cannabinoids, a series of exciting and beneficial responses are triggered throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system is essentially a complex communication system between the brain and all the other parts of the body. When the endocannabinoid system is functioning correctly, it supports a state of constant health and well-being. [2]
This system can get out of balance for a variety of reasons. By consuming high-quality CBD oil products, you can activate your body’s own natural cannabinoid receptors and experience an improvement in your overall health. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating our sleep, immune system function, pain response, mood and anxiety levels, and so much more. Therefore, it only stands to reason that a well-functioning endocannabinoid system can bring about tremendous benefits to our well-being.[1]
What are THC and CBD?
Cannabis and hemp plants are closely related to one another. Both of these types of plants contain at least 60 known cannabinoids that can help trigger and activate the endocannabinoid system. Most people have only ever heard of two of these cannabinoids, namely THC and CBD.
How Do THC and CBD Differ?
To begin to understand the differences in the way the body responds to THC and CBD, let us first differentiate between the two plants these products come from. Industrial hemp is often used in the production of rope, clothing, and building materials. Since hemp is naturally low in THC and high in CBD, it is a perfect choice for obtaining CBD oil that does not have psychoactive effects within the user.
On the contrary, cannabis is naturally high in THC and low in CBD. It is still often used in the production of CBD oil products. However, since THC-containing products are heavily regulated by the government, they are not available for legal purchase in all states.
How Can CBD and THC Cause Such Different Reactions?
It can be confusing to learn that one cannabinoid creates a high in the user while another cannabinoid has opposing effects. Why does this occur? It comes down to the types of cannabinoid receptors that each of these chemical compounds triggers.
THC mimics a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the body called anandamide. Often referred to as the “bliss molecule,” anandamide is responsible for creating and controlling the centers of the brain that interpret pleasurable sensations. THC so closely resembles this molecule that the body doesn’t know the difference between the two. The result is that the consumption of CBD oil products containing THC triggers a “high” or euphoric state in the user. [3]
CBD is an antagonist to these same receptors that are triggered by THC-containing products. This means that it opposes the activation of those same receptors. When you consume products containing CBD, it creates a relaxed and calming sensation in the body. Some CBD oil products contain a blend of both CBD and THC cannabinoids to balance the opposing effects of each. [3]
Government Regulations Regarding THC-Containing Products
THC is often seen in a negative sense due to the fact that it is responsible for creating a high in the user. Many states across the US have laws in place that prohibit the purchase and use of THC-containing products and oils. Before deciding on a CBD oil product, you will want to become familiar with the current laws in your state regarding their usage.
Where Can THC and CBD Oil Products be Purchased?
Due to their increase in popularity over recent years, both THC and CBD oil products are readily available in a variety of storefronts and online venues. A quick search on the internet will provide you with hundreds of outlets where these products can be purchased.
Making a Wise Choice
Once you’ve decided what type of CBD oil product you want to purchase, be sure to do your homework to choose a quality product that will provide you with the best results. Below are a few factors to keep in mind to ensure you buy a product of the highest quality.
Look for an oil that is clear in color
High-quality CBD oils are clear in color. If your oil appears murky, it most likely contains contaminants that you want to avoid.
Look for a company that answers your questions
Purchasing a CBD oil is a big deal, and all the more so if you are using it to treat a serious health problem. An honest and reputable company will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about your upcoming purchase. They will also be glad to disclose their farming, harvesting, and production methods.
Consider the Cost
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” This is certainly true in the world of CBD oil products. If you search around, you will likely find CBD oil being sold at rock bottom prices, but this can indicate that the quality of such products may not be ideal. Cheaper isn’t always better in terms of finding a quality product that will meet your needs.
We understand that your health is of utmost importance to you. As you strive to improve your wellbeing and overcome health issues, it is important to use the correct formulation of CBD oil products. We hope this has answered the vital question, “How is CBD oil different than THC oil?”
Sources:
[1] http://echoconnection.org/differences-cbd-thc/
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endocannabinoid_system
[3] https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/cbd-vs-thc-cbd-not-psychoactive
Additional Resources on CBD Differences
Is CBD Oil the Same or Different than Hemp Oil?
