CBD vs. THC: What's The Difference?
Plants in the cannabis genus are full of compounds called cannabinoids. Two of these compounds, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are commonly found in cannabis products.
While CBD and THC both interact with your body, they have very different effects. To learn about their key similarities and differences, continue reading below!
Chemical Structure
CBD and THC have the same molecular formula, C21H30O2, which has 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. Structurally, they are slightly different. So, despite their similar chemical structures, they don’t have the same psychoactive effects.
Psychoactive Compounds
Everyone has an endocannabinoid system that uses receptors to regulate signals to and from the brain. The two main receptors are CB1 and CB2.
THC has a particular affinity for binding with CB1 receptors, which is responsible for producing a high. CBD, meanwhile, has little binding affinity for either receptor. It binds to various neurotransmitter receptors in the brain and nervous system, like serotonin.
While CBD doesn’t produce a high, people can take CBD and reap the health benefits.
Medical Benefits
CBD and THC have many of the same medical benefits.
Conditions CBD may treat include:
- anxiety,
- epilepsy,
- insomnia,
- multiple sclerosis,
- nausea,
- neuropathic pain,
- and schizophrenia.
Meanwhile, THC may treat:
- anxiety,
- glaucoma,
- insomnia,
- low appetite,
- muscle spasticity,
- nausea,
- and pain.
Side Effects
- The side effects of CBD may include:
- appetite changes,
- diarrhea,
- dizziness,
- fatigue,
- sleepiness,
- and weight loss.
THC causes temporary side effects, such as:
- anxiety,
- impaired judgment,
- increased heart rate,
- low blood pressure,
- memory loss,
- red eyes,
- and tiredness.
Luckily, CBD is well tolerated, even in large doses. Research suggests that the side effects of CBD may be the result of drug interactions.
It’s worth noting that the benefits of CBD don’t change depending on if it’s derived from a cannabis or hemp plant. Common side effects are the same because the chemical makeup of CBD is the same.
Shop WellRabbit’s Online Store Today
As you’re shopping online, you’ll want to know you’re buying from a trusted source. At WellRabbit, your health and wellness are our number one priority.
The CBD products we offer include:
Shop for these and other health and wellness products on our website today!
