Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Properties in Cannabis Products

Cannabis CBD

Cannabis-derived products usually contain less than 0.3% THC. The use of hemp products has immensely increased as the natural compounds are extracted to manufacture products fit for human ingestion. The products come in different forms such as gels, gummies, oils, capsules, edibles, supplements, tinctures, and extracts. Products infused with CBD depict potential benefits. It is recommended to consult healthcare practitioners for possible CBD prescriptions.

Cannabidiol is an active ingredient in cannabis, and it doesn’t cause a high effect by itself. On the other hand, THC is the primary psychoactive compound that produces high sensation. Both compounds can be infused together to form a pure, healthy, and beneficial product such as Delta 8 THC flower. The products from hemp have been tested through modern tech research to showcase evidence of underlying benefits to different health conditions.

Benefits of Cannabis-derived products

Pain Relief: 

Researchers suggest that patients can use CBD products to manage chronic pain, especially for those with peripheral neuropathy. The hemp oils significantly minimize intense pain, muscle pain, itchy sensations, spinal cord injuries, and sharp pain. A study was performed in 2017 where a rat model was injected with CBD product and subjected to surgical incision to evidence the use.

Reduce cancer-related side effects: 

Using CBD and THC products such as Savitex (Nabiximols) aids in minimizing side effects associated with chemotherapy, such as vomiting and nausea. The CBD has the properties to aid in reducing the reproduction of some tumor cells.

Relieves anxiety: 

Drugs containing cannabidiol and THC are imperative in changing the way your brain receptors respond to serotonin. For instance, researchers found that a 600mg dose of CBD can substantially help individuals with social anxiety. Additionally, it reduces stress and manages post-traumatic stress disorder.

Treatment of Epilepsy: 

A purified form of CBD drug recognized as Epidiolex is used to cure Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome epilepsy in children. Patients can also manage seizures through drugs containing CBD compounds.

Helps deal with neurodegenerative disorders: 

THC and CBD compounds contain antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory elements that aid in managing neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s disease, Stroke, Multiple sclerosis, Amyotrophic lateral disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. The ability to reduce sebum production and the inflammatory element in hemp oil compounds is crucial in treating acne issues.

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Brain – Photo by: dierk schaefer – Source: Flickr Creative Commons

Comparison between Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol compounds

Chemical Structure:

They both have the same molecular structure but slightly different atom arrangement, i.e., 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. The compounds are chemically similar to human body endocannabinoids, thus easier interaction with the brain receptors.

Psychoactive components:

The compounds integrate different psychoactive effects. CBD articulates to aid in anxiety, depression, and seizures while THC binds the neurotransmitters to produce high euphoria.

Legality:

The use of hemp oils is considered a Schedule I drug. Various federal laws do not prompt usage of Cannabidiol products unless under medical niche. The Food and Drug Administration board controls approved Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol drugs to limit misuse. In some states, CBD and THC-infused drugs are allowed for recreational use.

Medical benefits:

Both compounds can provide relief from the same health conditions though the THC products may cause euphoric effects, unlike CBD products. An example of an approved CBD/THC product is the Epidiolex used in curing Epilepsy disorder.

Side effects:

CBD products are well tolerated even in large doses, unlike THC that may induce side effects such as dry mouth, increased heart rate, and red eyes.

Conclusion

CBD products are popular natural remedies to manage different chronic issues. THC and CBD extractions are found in the form of oils or powder. The intake of a particular CBD product depends on what it’s used for. Counter check CBD oil approvals by Food and Drug Administration department.