What are Cannabinoids? Everything You Need to Know About THC & CBD

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Do you ever wonder how cannabis produces the euphoric high and therapeutic effects that users typically experience? If you’re beginning to discover the chemical properties contained in the plant, such a question is a good starting point. There are mainly two compounds responsible for the addictive feelings and sensations associated with marijuana consumption: THC and CBD.

In a broader sense, tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol interact with our endocannabinoid system, where miracles happen. Yeah, without exaggerating the facts, they can prevent and heal certain medical conditions such as depression, stress, anxiety, pain, and much more.

Perhaps that’s why you’re now considering cannabis products for your health regimen. You’re doing yourself a favour when it proves that these supplements improve your general health and lifestyle. Many folks have a similar experience with weed. This satisfaction is attributed to how THC and CBD boost their mood, motivation, and energy, which is also beneficial for work productivity.

There’s also a cannabis-infused coffee that you can try if that usually makes your day. Other great options include delicious treats such as gummies, cookies, and candies. Wanna know whether these cannabinoids would also give you satisfaction? This article is definitely for you!

Overview of Cannabinoids

Probably you’ve heard or read about cannabinoids already but never had the chance to understand them thoroughly. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the marijuana plant- at least 113 have been isolated or discovered. The two significant compounds which are generally present in almost any hemp extract are THC and CBD. As you draw some interest in cannabis consumption, this topic should be considered since it can guide you in choosing the right products for your needs.

Once consumed, cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system, producing psychoactive and therapeutic effects. Research indicated that cannabis, in general, is effective for preventing and treating certain medical conditions- even chronic ones like symptoms of cancer, HIV/AIDS, and Parkinson’s Disease. The degree to which it affects the human body depends on certain physiological factors, such as metabolism, age, weight, and tolerance. When you take any cannabis product, the dosage is also critical to achieving the desired experience.

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How THC Works in the Body

When you consume any cannabis product that contains THC, you can expect to experience psychoactive effects within a specific timeframe depending on the delivery method. For instance, if you smoke marijuana flowers, the results are almost instantaneous. But the case is different for edibles, as oral ingestion usually takes a few minutes to an hour before you feel the impact on your mind and body. The kind of euphoria and relief you go through in the process also depends on the type of cannabis you use: Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid. Each has unique CBD and THC ratios, so you should look at this factor as you shop around.

If you’re curious about what happens in your system that enables those effects, that’s pretty simple. THC acts like the natural cannabinoid chemicals in our body, attached to specific cannabinoid receptors that activate them. When that phenomenon happens, your memory, sensory and time perception, coordination, pleasure, movement, and concentration are affected. Once the THC starts affecting your body, you’ll feel and think differently. Since this mind and body high may work to or against your favour, proper dosing or sticking to your tolerance level is crucial.

As to the origin, THC is commonly found in the resin secreted by marijuana glands. More of these plant areas are present around the reproductive organs. The cannabinoid is extracted from the herb through a chemical extraction process. THC can be a boon or a bane depending on how your body responds to the substance or how responsible you are as a consumer. Manufacturers must adhere to the prescribed guidelines on the THC content of every weed product to make it legal for consumption.

Common Effects of THC

Since THC is a psychoactive compound, it produces euphoric sensations when consumed; this occurs when the substance stimulates specific brain cells to release dopamine. It may also affect cognitive information processing associated with forming new memories. But for typical users, the delight and feelings of cloud nine are enough for THC to serve its recreational use. Such delusions or hallucinations could be extreme when the cannabinoid is consumed excessively. The effects could last for hours depending on the delivery method.

Medicinal Use of THC

Yes, it’s good news that several studies claim some medicinal use of THC. Even the National Cancer Institute reported that marijuana had been used for over 3,000 years to treat certain health conditions. As a result, hemp-derived products have been legalized in the United States under specific regulations.

THC is generally extracted from marijuana and used for many drugs available on the market today. It is also contained in several cannabis products at varying levels. When used correctly, there’s evidence that the cannabinoid could work to the best advantage of medical marijuana patients. It can be used to improve memory, contrary to some notions that marijuana can damage the brain. THC may also be used for stress, depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, and chronic pain.

How CBD Works in the Body

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Like THC, CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects. This substance is not psychoactive and is considered the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis. It is generally derived from the hemp plant and is present in many weed products at varying levels. Cannabidiol is readily available in most areas of the United States, though its legal status has been in flux. So far, all 50 states have corresponding laws over the production, sale, and consumption of CBD products. The substance does not exhibit effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted from hemp flowers and used in various ingestible products, including skin and body care supplements. The cannabinoid works with the endocannabinoid system to help the body function better, thus improving health and wellness. There are wide-range applications for CBD, and most are for therapeutic use. Consumer testimonials and a growing body of research suggest that proper consumption of this substance may benefit many individuals and the healthcare industry.

Our endocannabinoid system is connected to all other body systems through specific cannabinoid receptors. Once the cannabinoids like CBD are consumed, they bind to the receptors, bring balance to the body, and help it function more efficiently. These compounds can also be produced naturally. But when cannabis plants produce them, they are technically called phytocannabinoids. These cannabinoids are believed to boost the immune system, reduce stress, and relieve inflammation.

Common Effects of CBD

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CBD is more of a therapeutic compound - the exact opposite of THC. As such, cannabinoid is often formulated and used for medical purposes. While it does not necessarily trigger euphoria, proper dosage is still key to reaping its potential health benefits. You should also examine the plant origin since there are cannabis types that have higher concentrations of CBD. If you’re planning to take this substance to maintain your health, do so with caution. Proper consultation with a doctor may be necessary to avoid contraindications or side effects.

Medicinal Use of CBD

Many experts claim that cannabidiol (CBD) can help manage specific health issues, such as insomnia, addiction, anxiety, chronic pain, nausea, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy symptoms. There’s anecdotal evidence supporting this claim as thousands of people in the United States consume CBD products for medical purposes. It’s a significant reason why hemp-derived compounds have been legalized because some patients can use them. But proper use should be observed as the cannabinoid is not a remedy for all conditions.

THC is generally extracted from marijuana and used for many drugs available on the market today. It is also contained in several cannabis products at varying levels. When used correctly, there’s evidence that the cannabinoid could work to the best advantage of medical marijuana patients. It can be used to improve memory, contrary to some notions that marijuana can damage the brain. THC may also be used for stress, depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, and chronic pain.

THC Vs. CBD: What’s the Real Score?

Both compounds affect the endocannabinoid system and play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. However, they are essentially not the same. If you want to understand how THC differs from CBD and vice versa clearly, there are three major aspects that you should look into, as explained below:

Sources

CBD is usually extracted from hemp, while THC is from marijuana. The reason for that is the concentration of cannabinoids in the plant source. You might also be surprised that the cannabis type contains varying levels of these compounds. But as sold in the dispensary, each product has specific labels for consumers to know what they can expect from the extract.

Psychoactive Properties

CBD and THC affect different brain receptors in unique ways. Thus they produce various effects, too. As previously discussed, CBD doesn’t cause euphoric effects as THC does. That’s the most common difference between these two cannabinoids.

Chemical Structure

THC and CBD have a chemical structure similar to our natural endocannabinoids. These are neurotransmitters that function in the brain. Major cannabinoids have the same molecular structure, but there’s a difference in the arrangement of those molecules and how they bind with cannabinoid receptors. As a result, each one produces unique effects.

How to Choose the Best Cannabis Products

Since THC and CBD products can affect your health, you must choose the most effective one. Do you have metrics already? Well, for sure, you need some insights from the expert. This topic is included in this article, so you’ll be able to differentiate high-quality cannabis items from bad ones. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

• Check the cannabinoid profile - each product you’ll come across in the dispensary has its cannabinoids: THC, CBD, etc. These compounds are usually the product of the decarboxylation process from raw marijuana. As a rule of thumb, you must look for an item containing ideal cannabinoids to address your needs.
• Check the terpene content - terpenes have something to do with the aroma and flavour of the cannabis product. So, choose a variety with good terpene content if you want a delicious way to consume the substance.
• Decide on the delivery method - your experience with CBD oil would be different from that of edibles. At the outset, you have to decide which delivery method will work best for you. This requires considering the flavour, onset time, and duration of effects.
• Choose a reputable brand - always! The reason for this is very apparent. Only reputable brands can guarantee that the cannabis products you’re buying are safe and effective. So bear that in mind as you shop around.