The popularity of cannabis products continues to grow as more states continue to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. The growth in demand for these products also seems to bring a bit of confusion around the two primary compounds, CBD and THC.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the second most prevalent active compound in cannabis. Chemist Roger Adams first discovered CBD in 1940, but it’s gained popularity as a natural treatment for various conditions in recent years.
Effects of CBD
One of the most critical differences between CBD and THC is that CBD does not have the psychedelic effects of THC that give people a high feeling. CBD also does not make people feel sedated. It can provide individuals with a sense of calm and relaxation, although everyone experiences effects differently. Some common side effects of CBD include dry mouth, drowsiness, decreased appetite, and vomiting.
Uses for CBD
Because of the calming effects of CBD, many people use it to help manage stress and anxiety. However, CBD is not an FDA-approved treatment for these conditions. Some people also utilize CBD products to reduce joint pain and stiffness and get a quality night’s sleep.
While the FDA does not approve most commercial CBD products to treat health conditions, the FDA has approved one CBD medication called Epidiolex, which treats seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome.
Common CBD Products
You can administer CBD to yourself in various ways. A few of the most common include:
- Tinctures– CBD tinctures or oils are among the most popular ways to take CBD. You can take the oil by placing the liquid directly under the tongue. Dosing for tinctures can vary depending on the brand and potency, so read the dosing instructions before using them.
- Edibles– CBD edibles, or gummies, are a convenient way to take CBD. Edibles come in various flavors and potencies to meet your liking. Each gummy is a dose, so there is no need to measure the CBD before taking it.
- Creams– CBD creams or rubs are a great way to soothe aches and pains. Apply the infused cream to the affected area to relieve muscular tension, joint stiffness, or skin irritation.
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam discovered THC in 1964 with his colleagues at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. Today, THC is most commonly known for its psychedelic effects in marijuana.
Effects of THC
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gives people a high feeling by stimulating the brain’s pleasure responders to release dopamine. Many people who use THC products also describe feelings of calmness and relaxation. Some common side effects of THC include difficulty concentrating, dizziness, drowsiness, and vomiting.
Uses for THC
Many individuals use recreational THC products to help them relax, similar to how some people may drink alcohol to unwind. Doctors prescribe medical marijuana, which contains THC, to treat symptoms of various health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, epilepsy, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, and severe nausea or vomiting from chemotherapy.
Common THC Products
Like CBD, you can get the benefits of THC through many products. A few standard THC products include:
- Flower– Also known as bud, flower is the smokable part of a cannabis plant. You can smoke it using a pipe or bong or roll it into a joint. People typically smoke because the THC effects tend to hit faster than when you take it through other forms.
- Concentrates– Concentrates are the excess plant material you get when you remove all impurities from the cannabis plant. The most common way to take concentrates is to vaporize the concentrate using a dab rig.
- Edibles– Like CBD edibles, THC edibles come in various foods and candies. They’re often proportioned, making them convenient to take.
- Tinctures– THC oils, or tinctures, are consumed by placing the recommended dosage under the tongue. You can also mix the tinctures with food or beverages for easier consumption. Plus, many companies have flavored oils to suit your tastes.
Have questions about CBD products and which may be right for you? Stop in our storefront in Little Rock, send us a message, or call us at 501.398.9868.
