Cannabis contains more than 100 cannabinoids, but there are two main ones, which have very different effects and legal status. These are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). Each one produces something different, and contributes both to the sensation produced by marijuana and to its therapeutic applications. Knowing both compounds allows you to make a better choice of strain when growing, as well as knowing what to look for depending on whether you want something recreational or medicinal.

First, what they have in common: both TCH and CBD are cannabinoids, and act on the endocannabinoid system, which all mammals, including humans, have. This is an intercellular communication system, which is naturally activated to create homeostasis, but can be stimulated by phytocannabinoids, that is, cannabinoids of plant origin, such as those found in the marijuana plant. These cause different effects than those that occur naturally in the body. The main receptors of the endocannabinoid system are CB-1 and CB-2, which are found in the central nervous and immune systems.

THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis, and it binds to these two receptors in the human brain. CB-1 influences pleasure, appetite, memory and concentration, while CB-2 moderates the sensation of pain, and plays a role in homeostasis in certain parts of the body, such as the kidney and liver.

In addition, THC is the component responsible for making you want to eat a pizza and go to sleep after smoking a joint. It increases appetite and increases the feeling of pleasure when eating, as well as producing drowsiness. This is why it is used in treatments for insomnia and loss of appetite. It is also THC that affects short-term memory, so blame it too the next time you say «what was I talking about?» in the middle of a conversation when you are stoned. In general, the strains with the highest THC are the most sought after for recreational use. It is also the component mostly banned or restricted by most countries around the world.

CBD, on the other hand, interacts with receptors such as GPR55 or 5-HT1A. It is not psychoactive, although it works in many ways with THC to contribute to the effect of cannabis. In fact, it counteracts the effects of THC in several ways, so its ratio is important in determining the sensation produced by marijuana. CBD reduces the anxious feeling characteristically caused by THC, and has antipsychotic properties that balance the stronger effects of the high. It is also associated with wakefulness and energy, so it also complements THC, although if a sedative effect is sought, it is best if the proportion of CBD is low. As for memory, it also reduces the impairment caused by THC, so low-CBD strains are the ones that will leave you wondering where you left the keys you actually have in your hand.

CBD is also the most sought after component in strains for medicinal use. It has anti-inflammatory properties far superior to THC and without the psychotropic effects, making it safe for any patient. It is widely used in afflictions such as arthritis and rheumatism. CBD also has an anticonvulsant effect and reduces muscle spasms, which is why it is often prescribed for refractory epilepsy. It is also anxiolytic and antipsychotic, with studies supporting its use in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Both cannabinoids play important roles and work perfectly together, regulating each other, although depending on the effect and desired use, varieties richer in one or the other compound will be chosen. If you suffer from any disease or have had a tremendous blow, you may want a lot of CBD, but if your plan is to watch a movie and finish just a bag of potato chips, THC is your thing. Just remember that without a good balance of CBD, you may never finish the movie because you fall asleep, or forget what it was about in the first place. The right balance is the secret. And if you want to buy THC Austin, remember that it is completely legal.

What is Delta-8-THC?

Delta-8-THC is a cannabinoid similar to Delta-9-THC, but is generally considered less potent. Many Delta-8-THC users report that the cannabinoid gives them a floating, weightless feeling similar to other cannabis products, but with less brain fog.

Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the difference?

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and Delta-8-THC are almost identical in structure and have similar psychoactive effects. Delta-9 and Delta-8 are similar in that both cannabinoids bind to the same cannabinoid receptors in the human nervous system.

The relatively obscure Delta-8-THC and the very popular Delta-9-THC molecules are little more than two atoms apart. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol appears to have similar therapeutic efficacy to Delta-9-THC.

However, a key difference is that Delta-8-THC is one of a dozen minor cannabinoids, while Delta-9-THC is a primary cannabinoid. Delta-8-THC appears in very mild concentrations in the cannabis plant, but this relatively scarce cannabinoid is on its way to becoming one of the most popular elements of the plant.

How Delta-8 THC affects the body

One of the reasons for the rise in popularity of Delta-8-THC is that it is nowhere near as psychoactive as Delta-9-THC, the cannabinoid that notoriously «gets you high.» The National Cancer Institute agrees that Delta-8-THC will leave medical cannabis patients with a milder psychoactive footprint, concluding, «This agent exhibits lower psychotropic potency than Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9-THC), the primary form of THC found in cannabis.»

These properties make Delta-8 THC potentially very useful for children, people especially sensitive to Delta-9 THC, and those looking for something more tolerable to relieve chronic pain during the day. However, these potential therapeutic effects apply more to naturally occurring delta-8-THC, not the synthesized version that is made by transforming CBD.

Health Benefits and Uses

Delta-8-THC offers many of the same potential therapeutic benefits as delta-9-THC, if we are referring to the non-synthesized version. Here are some therapeutic purposes of delta-8-THC:

Pain relief

THC serves a dual function in reducing pain and related inflammation. Different forms of the cannabinoid can even help with difficult-to-treat and intense pain associated with chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and cancer treatments such as chemotherapy.

Digestive Benefits

Delta-8-THC may stimulate appetite while reducing nausea and vomiting in some people. However, there is more evidence for Delta-9-THC’s ability to help with digestive disorders.

Relaxation

Calming mild anxiety is one of the main reasons people turn to Delta-8-THC. The cannabinoid provides a natural alternative to prescription anxiety medications, but you should consult your medical professional first.