What are the differences between THC and CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two most abundant natural molecules in Cannabis Sativa L. (Hemp).

Although they are the most prevalent, they are only a fraction of the many (probably 200) compounds in the cannabis plant.

Cannabidiol is not classified as a substance in its own right (only as a compound found in cannabis extracts). In Europe, CBD is extracted from hemp. Hemp is a legal variety of Cannabis Sativa L. containing less than 0.3% THC, unlike illegal cannabis varieties which contain much higher concentrations of THC. CBD, like THC, is available in the form of flowers, oils, crystals, extracts, candies, etc.

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THC is the best-known psychoactive component of cannabis; it is responsible for altering consciousness: stoned, high, it makes you "float".

When discussing recreational cannabis use, we are generally referring to a product rich in THC. (From 3% to 30% THC for herb, with an average of 11%, and from 7% to 85% for resin).

These two cannabinoids cause effects on our body and more particularly on our endocannabinoid system (a system that acts to maintain the balance of our body such as body temperature, blood sugar, heart rate…).

However, they have different effects.

CBD vs THC in brief

	CBD	THC
Psychoactive effect	No	Yes
Legality (France)	Legal (<0.3% THC)	Amazing
Desired effects	Relaxation, anti-anxiety, etc.	"High," euphoria, altered sensory perception
Side effects	Nausea or a feeling of hunger Headaches Fatigue and drowsiness Dry mouth Drug interactions	Increased heart rate Coordination problems Dry mouth Red eyes Reduced responsiveness Short- and long-term memory loss Nausea or a feeling of hunger Headaches Fatigue and drowsiness Drug interactions
Name	Hemp	Cannabis

 

Difference in terms of legislation

Cannabis is generally prohibited in the EU. Exceptions include Portugal (where possession of up to 25 grams is decriminalized and punishable by a simple fine). The Netherlands allows consumers to have and use cannabis at home or in private spaces such as coffee shops. In Spain , possession or consumption of cannabis is also permitted only in private places and "cannabis clubs." Cultivating cannabis plants is allowed on private property.

Overall, theusaand possession of THC cannabis is punishable by a sentence ranging from a warning to a prison sentence.

CBD products are legal in the European Union and therefore legal in France, provided they contain less than 0.3% (or 0.2% depending on the country) of THC and are produced using authorized hemp seeds.

"In France, there's no question of highlighting the differences between CBD and THC, nor of touting the therapeutic benefits of the former. In France, cannabidiol cannot be considered a medicine and must remain what it officially is: a food supplement."

Although legal in France as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC, CBD cannot be smoked in joints due to the associated lung risks. To experience the effects of CBD, please consider vaporizing it or ingesting it in the form of oil or capsules.

 

 

CBD and THC: what do scientific studies say?

 

Scientific studies have concluded that CBD, like THC, has beneficial properties.

According to these same studies, CBD could soothe inflammation, pain, mental discheckouts, gastric problems, nausea (chemotherapy), migraines, depression, and anxiety. It could be beneficial for muscle recovery in athletes and alleviate a number of other conditions due to its properties.

Some scientific studies claim that THC has effects on insomnia, appetite, muscle spasms (multiple sclerosis), glaucoma, and anxiety.

The combined use of CBD and THC potentially produces more effects than separate use.

For example, in a study from California Pacific Medical Center, researchers found that combining CBD and THC produced greater antitumor effects when applied to breast and brain cancer cell lines than when used alone. This study also found that patients with cancer-related pain had better tolerance to medications combining THC and CBD.

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The side effects of THC and CBD

Possible side effects of CBD

The CBD molecule is generally well tolerated and does not cause dangerous side effects . As the WHO indicates, it can cause:

• Nausea or a feeling of hunger
• Headaches
• Fatigue and drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Drug interactions

However, these effects are quite rare and short-lived, even with heavy consumption. Furthermore, CBD can even mitigate the negative effects of THC.

Possible side effects of THC

Unlike CBD, THC can have several serious side effects, some of which may be irreversible.

Temporary side effects:

• Increased heart rate
• Coordination problems
• Dry mouth
• Red eyes
• Reduced responsiveness
• Short- and long-term memory loss

effects :

To date, THC, even in high doses, is considered to pose a limited risk to adults. However, it is much more dangerous for adolescents because it interferes with their neuronal development. THC can trigger latent psychiatric problems, such as schizophrenia, whereas CBD may be beneficial. The same applies to attention deficit hyperactivity discheckout (ADHD).