What’s the Difference Between THC and CBD?

While there’s an overwhelming amount of information online about cannabis and, more specifically, hemp and marijuana, some of it can be confusing and often contradictory. For example, do you know the difference between THC and CBD and why knowing the difference matters? With the release of new scientific studies regarding the soothing and even healing effects of cannabis on conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia and more, the market is teeming with a variety of information and cannabis-infused products.

The Difference Between THC and CBD
There are more than 100 cannabinoids within the cannabis plant, each one producing different effects in the body. While THC and CBD are just two cannabinoids, they are the most prominent and beneficial cannabinoids (as far as we know) for health and wellbeing. The biggest difference is that THC gets you high and CBD does not—even when consumed in large doses.

THC
THC is the abbreviation of Tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the highly concentrated cannabinoid in the marijuana plant that causes the feeling of being “high”. Its scientific composition is a mixture of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

CBD
CBD is the abbreviation of Cannabidiol. CBD is the highly concentrated cannabinoid in the hemp plant. CBD is also a mixture of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but in different proportions. Provides many health benefits including pain relief and anti-inflammation, but does not produce a “high”.

Because both of these compounds have positive effects on the body, it’s good to understand how and where they work.

Positive effects of THC and CBD
THC is used for:
– easing chronic pain
– increasing appetite
– reducing nausea
– trouble sleeping
– treating PTSD
– muscle spasms

CBD is used for:
– relieving pain
– reducing anxiety
– reducing inflammation
– inducing relaxation
– prohibiting bacteria growth
– reducing seizures

Better together, sometimes
While THC and CBD are effective to treat many health issues separately, certain conditions are sometimes better controlled when both THC and CBD are part of the equation, such as nausea, intense muscle spasms, and glaucoma.

However, the reason many people who may be curious about CBD choose to avoid cannabis products all together is often because they simply do not want to get high and, although they’ve heard or read that CBD is non-psychoactive, they don’t want to take the chance unless they’re 100% certain. Oftentimes, this is knowledge and first-hand experience shared between friends or family. As the awareness of CBD’s non-psychoactive, yet positive, effects continues to grow, so will the volume of individuals taking an interest in the benefits it can deliver without making you feel stoned. In fact, CBD can actually counteract the psychoactive effect of THC, so if you ever find yourself inharmoniously stoned from THC, CBD is the trick to getting right-side up again.

How Can I Know What I Really Need?
We know this is a lot of information, but we hope our insight puts you at ease about the significant differences between THC and CBD. The Kaya Hemp Co. team is always happy to help and to answer any questions to may have about using CBD, whether you’re interested in particular CBD products, or if you’d simply like general info about hemp goods. Contact us by email at info@kayaholistic.com or call us at (480) 737-0867.