As more and more cannabis products, like THC oil, hit the market, public interest in understanding the two most common compounds found in these products — CBD and THC — continues to grow.
Although both derive from the same cannabis sativa plant and even share the same chemical structure, there are significant differences in their chemical arrangement and how they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This distinction is especially noticeable when the compounds are consumed as oil extracts.
THC = Psychoactive
Generally speaking, the primary difference is that THC oil creates the commonly known psychoactive “high” effect, which CBD oil does not provide. However, despite this dissimilarity, there are other important aspects every user should understand before purchasing either product.
To help you gain a clearer understanding, we’ve prepared this ultimate guide explaining the differences between CBD and THC oil.
Photo by Kimzy Nanney from Unsplash
CBD Oil
What is CBD oil and how is it produced?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of the most prevalent chemical compounds found in the cannabis sativa plant. It is extracted from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant and then mixed with a carrier oil to produce a pure CBD product with an almost negligible amount of THC (less than 0.3%). While a 100% pure CBD extract is available, tiny amounts of THC in the oil can actually enhance CBD’s properties, so there’s typically no cause for concern.
To ensure minimal THC in their products, cannabis growers and manufacturers must employ effective drying and curing techniques. Doing so helps them create a CBD oil that delivers the desired benefits to users and sets their products apart from competitors.
The Psychoactive Properties of CBD Oil
Because THC levels are very low in CBD oil, it does not provide consumers with the psychoactive effect commonly referred to as the “high.” This is because the CBD compound doesn’t directly bind with the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, which are located in the human endocannabinoid system and govern various functions such as pain, appetite, mood, inflammation, and movement.
Instead, when you take a few CBD pure oil drops underneath your tongue, the compound quickly enters your bloodstream, reaching these receptors and, in conjunction with them, helping your body heal itself from within.
Potential Health Benefits of CBD Oil
There are several health benefits associated with taking CBD oil. People typically use it to help treat various mild and complex medical issues such as pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, seizures, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and epilepsy.
For example, if you are using CBD oil to alleviate joint pain, the compound will influence the receptors responsible for pain and inflammation. This action helps block pain signals from reaching the rest of the body and reduces aches and swelling.
THC Oil
What is THC Oil and how is it Produced?
Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, is the second most abundant cannabinoid found in the cannabis sativa plant. Similar to CBD, this chemical can be found throughout all aerial parts of the marijuana plant, as well as in the flowers of the female cannabis plant. These flowers are coated in small resin glands called trichomes, which contain a higher concentration of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
THC oil is created through various extraction methods that pull valuable THC and other cannabinoids from the plant, which are then mixed with a neutral-flavored carrier oil.
The Psychoactive Properties of THC Oil
The main property distinguishing CBD from THC oil is that the latter is psychoactive. When consumed, the compound binds with your CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, causing various effects.
Some of these effects include a dopamine release, leading to feelings of relaxation and happiness, a physical response like an increase in appetite, and a cerebral response with varied effects on memory, focus, mood, or movement. While some of these effects are desirable and therapeutic, THC may also cause paranoia and anxiety in some cases.
Potential health benefits and side effects of THC oil
THC oil provides more or less the same health benefits as CBD oil. People typically use it to help alleviate symptoms of mild issues such as pain, anxiety, and nausea, but also to treat more complex medical conditions such as glaucoma, muscle spasticity, low appetite, and insomnia.
It is important to note that THC can also cause temporary side effects such as increased heart rate, coordination problems, dry mouth, red eyes, and slower reaction times.
Photo by Erin Hinterland from Pixabay
Final Thoughts
Out of the many types of cannabis and marijuana products available, CBD oil and THC oil seem to be the most commonly preferred methods to consume these two compounds.
However, to reap all the benefits from these oils, it is crucial that users understand the main differences between CBD and THC as cannabinoids, as well as the effects they have on the human body and brain.
For more information on this matter, refer back to our post and read about the most important components that distinguish CBD oil from THC oil.
Further Reading:
CBD Products – 9 Key Considerations When Shopping For Them
Everything You Need to Know About CBD Gummies
How Effective is CBD and What is Mostly Used for?
5 Things You Should Know About Using Prescription-Free CBD Products