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Understanding the Key Differences Between CBD & THC

When you hear the word marijuana you likely think of an illegal drug. However, the plant is not only responsible for THC, but it also produces CBD. CBD, a now federally legal product, is a popular supplement that helps reduce pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression and can help with sleep disorders. Although federally legal, CBD is often confused for THC, which is still illegal in most areas of the country.

What do people confuse the most often with CBD and THC?

Most People See Marijuana In a Negative Light

The marijuana plant was popular in the 90s and took on names like weed, pot, chronic, etc. It was a subject of pop culture, the rap community and even had magazine publications dedicated to it. Marijuana was completely illegal in the United States up until recent changes in Washington that made it available in certain states including California and Colorado. Unless it is considered admissible by the state you are in, you are advised to be careful with the use of marijuana as it can carry steep fines (among other ramifications).

Many states have also opted into offering medical marijuana, which makes it legal to obtain THC for medicinal purposes. Check with your state’s requirements to see what is allowed and what isn’t. You may also want to speak with your doctor about THC vs. CBD.

CBD Isn’t Psychoactive

A key difference in the two plant derivatives is that one makes you feel high and one doesn’t. THC contains a variety of psychoactive elements that make its users feel different when using it. On the contrary, CBD does not make the user feel high. Instead, CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to resolve symptoms of pain or discomfort. Because CBD does not produce a psychoactive feeling, it is considered safe to use and is therefore legal.

Availability to Consumers

CBD is also much more available to the average consumer compared to THC products. People using CBD may ingest it in a variety of ways including:

  • Edibles: consumable products that are mixed with candy, chocolates or gummies
  • Tinctures: consumable droplets that a person can ingest sublingually
  • Topicals: lotions and balms that can be applied directly to the skin
  • Vapes: consuming CBD through a vaporizing device

There is even CBD available for pets in the form of dog and cat treats, which can be found at major stores like Petco and Petsmart. The availability of CBD has grown dramatically in the last few years and will continue to do so.

Research Is Ongoing

Many benefits of CBD use have already been identified, but the product is still relatively new among the scientific and medical communities. As more and more CBD manufacturers develop new products and release them to a wider audience, it will be easy to see additional benefits one can get from using CBD. For now, as a consumer, it’s important to pay attention to the research that is available and thoroughly vet any CBD provider you’re interested in. Most providers, especially those who allow you to buy CBD online, should provide research documents and certificates of analysis (3rd party tests so you know the product is safe).

Hopefully, this can help you see the main differences between THC and CBD. Things are always changing, from chemical compositions to laws surrounding marijuana use, so stay on top of the latest trends.

 

 

 

 

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