A Beginner’s Guide To CBD & THC

Hemp vs. Marijuanna

What Is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that has been cultivated and used by humans for thousands of years. Its origins can be traced back to Central Asia, where it was likely first used for fiber and seed oil. Over time, the plant spread to other regions of the world and was used for medicinal, religious, and recreational purposes.

Cannabis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae. The most well-known species is Cannabis sativa, which is used for the production of hemp fiber, seed oil, and medicinal and recreational marijuana.

THC & CBD Are Cannabinoids

The plant contains compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known of which is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. Another important cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which has therapeutic potential but does not produce a “high”.

These cannabinoid compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors and signaling molecules that help regulate various physiological processes such as appetite, pain, mood, and immune response.

Cannabinoids can have therapeutic effects in the body because they mimic the actions of the body’s own endocannabinoids and can help to restore balance to the endocannabinoid system. Some potential benefits of cannabinoids include: pain relief, sleep improvement, anxiety relief,, anti-inflammatory.

The Differences Between Hemp & Marijuanna

The main difference between hemp and marijuana is their THC content. As mentioned above, THC, is the compound in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. Marijuana plants can contain up to 30% THC or more while Hemp plants contain less than 0.3% THC. This means that hemp doesn’t produce the psychoactive “high” effects.

Another difference between hemp and marijuana is their CBD content. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that provides therapeutic benefits to the body & mind. Hemp plants are typically higher in CBD than marijuana plants, making hemp an attractive source for CBD supplements.

Hemp and marijuana are also grown and processed differently. Hemp is grown primarily for industrial purposes, such as for making health supplements, beauty products, making paper and even textiles. Marijuana on the other hand is grown specifically for its psychoactive and medicinal properties.

CBD vs. THC Benefits

CBD is a major cannabinoid that enhances the function of the body’s endocannabinoid system in supporting its internal mechanisms. For centuries, CBD derived from hemp has aided the mind and body in numerous ways, including sleep and minor pain relief, making it a highly regarded wellness supplement. CBD is non-psychoactive, indicating that it typically has minimal or no side effects and does not cause intoxication, making it a safe product from the hemp plant.

THC is well-known for its psychoactive properties. By interacting with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system, THC induces a sensation of relaxation and euphoria, commonly referred to as a “high.” On the other hand, when you buy CBD that originates from the hemp plant, you receive the advantages of CBD without experiencing the psychoactive effects of THC.

Legalities

In the 20th century, cannabis became subject to increasing legal restrictions making it illegal to grow, sell, or use marijuana for any purpose in many countries. However, in recent years, attitudes towards cannabis have shifted, and many places have legalized medical and/or recreational use of marijuana.

Today, the cannabis plant continues to be a source of ongoing political, legal, and cultural debate, with ongoing research being done to better understand its effects and potential therapeutic benefits.