The effects of medicinal cannabis can differ greatly depending on their chemical profile - the level of THC and CBD they have. As a result, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two chemicals, and how adjustments in their level can completely change the effects cannabis may have on your body.

Below, we cover what exactly THC and CBD are and their main differences. Keep reading to learn more.

What is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, and is responsible for its intoxicating effects. THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, releasing dopamine which creates feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and heightened sensory perception. THC can also help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

THC is most popularly associated with marijuana, in which it can range from 14 to 24 percent of the plant’s content. It helps users to feel relaxed, but can also cause anxiety or paranoia. As a result, THC is often used for medical purposes in small doses, as it can help alleviate the symptoms of certain illnesses.

THC is also known to interact with other cannabinoids, such as CBD. CBD (cannabidiol) is another major component of cannabis plants and can be found in both hemp and marijuana varieties.

THC in Medicinal Cannabis

In the context of medicinal cannabis, THC is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and more. While the effects of THC are often considered beneficial for medical purposes, it can also cause unwanted side effects such as paranoia, dizziness, impaired motor control, and coordination.

As a result, THC is often prescribed in combination with other cannabinoids, such as CBD, to preserve and enhance its medicinal benefits while mitigating the risks. THC is used in medicinal cannabis such as oils, tinctures, edibles, and more, although it is not recommended for smoking due to its potentially damaging effects on the lungs.

What is CBD?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is another primary cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC however, CBD does not possess any psychoactive properties – meaning it won’t get you “high” or intoxicated. Instead, CBD works by binding to CB2 receptors in the body and helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate certain symptoms associated with various health conditions. It has also been shown to help with anxiety-related disorders, and it has been increasingly used for its pain-relieving and antipsychotic effects.

In hemp, CBD makes up about 40 percent of the plant’s content. Hemp is a type of cannabis strain with low THC concentrations (0.3% or less). This means that CBD can be enjoyed without any of the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Furthermore, hemp-derived CBD products are non-habit forming and widely accessible to those who prefer not to consume cannabis in its recreational form.

As a result, many people prefer CBD over THC for its therapeutic effects. Unlike THC, CBD does not create a sense of euphoria or “high,” and it is often used to counteract the psychoactive effects of THC. Furthermore, CBD can be used to treat various medical conditions without any side-effects associated with THC products. For example, CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, and even manage symptoms of epilepsy.

CBD in Medicinal Cannabis

CBD is often used in conjunction with THC to provide medicinal benefits while mitigating the risks associated with its psychoactive effects. This means that CBD can help reduce the feeling of being “high” or intoxicated, while still allowing the body to reap the medicinal benefits of THC. Many medical cannabis products contain a balanced ratio of both THC and CBD for this purpose.

CBD is used in medicinal cannabis products such as tinctures, CBD oil, edibles and capsules. These CBD products can be ingested orally or applied topically (via ointments or salves) to provide relief from various conditions such as pain, inflammation, anxiety, seizures, and nausea. Furthermore, CBD is believed to help reduce the risk of psychosis associated with THC’s psychoactive effects.

THC Vs. CBD: The Key Differences

The two main compounds found in cannabis are THC and CBD. While both of these cannabinoids have shown potential for medicinal use, the key difference between them is their effects on the body. THC is a psychoactive compound that produces a high feeling when ingested, while CBD has no intoxicating effect and does not produce a high feeling.

In addition, CBD can provide relief from inflammation, anxiety, and stress without being psychoactive. On the other hand, THC is more effective at treating chronic pain and muscle spasms due to its psychoactive effects. Ultimately, it is important to consider all of the benefits associated with either compound before making an informed decision about which one would be most beneficial for you or your condition.

The chemical structure of both compounds is quite different. THC is composed of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms whereas CBD has 21 carbon atoms as well but only 29 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom. This slight difference results in entirely different pharmacological effects when consumed.

Another difference between CBD and THC is how they are used in medicinal cannabis. THC is  often the primary component of cannabis that produces intoxication and has psychoactive effects, while CBD is more used to treat medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. As a result, the concentration of THC and CBD varies within different medical marijuana products, as different ratios can be beneficial for different conditions.

When it comes to choosing between THC and CBD, it is important to consider your desired effects and the potential side-effects that may be associated with each. THC can cause anxiety and paranoia while CBD may have sedative effects. Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor before deciding which is best for you or your condition.

Overall, both compounds offer a variety of therapeutic and medical benefits and can be beneficial when used properly. It is important to understand the differences between THC and CBD in order to make an informed decision about which one will be most beneficial for you or your condition. Knowing their individual chemical profiles and how they interact with the body can help provide insight into which compound might be best suited for you. Ultimately, it is important to discuss with your doctor and weigh the pros and cons before making any decision. Doing so will ensure that you get the best outcomes for your health and well-being.

THC Vs. CBD in Australia

In Australia, both THC and CBD are controlled substances regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and state medical cannabis laws. The TGA is responsible for ensuring that medicines, including cannabis-based products, meet strict standards of quality before they can be sold and used in the country.

When it comes to THC and CBD, Australian laws are quite strict. The possession, sale, and use of THC is illegal unless authorized by an applicable state or territory law. In contrast, CBD is legal in Australia provided it meets certain requirements such as being derived from hemp plants containing no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.

Between THC and CBD, the TGA considers THC to be the more dangerous of the two substances and recommends that it only be prescribed when other treatments such as complementary and integrative health methods have been unsuccessful.

Currently, only certain formulations or extracts of THC and CBD are allowed to be prescribed by doctors, including Sativex and Epidiolex. The TGA also helps keep medical professionals up to date with the latest research and evidence on cannabis-based treatments.

The Future of THC and CBD

The future of THC and CBD is still uncertain. While both substances are gaining popularity as treatments for a variety of conditions, the lack of long-term research studies has made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about their effectiveness or safety.

At the same time, more jurisdictions around the world are beginning to legalise cannabis in some form. This could lead to increased access to THC and CBD, as well as more opportunities for medical research on these substances.

It is clear that there is much potential for THC and CBD in medical treatments. If more research studies are conducted, we may be able to better understand how these substances can be used effectively. For now, the benefits of using cannabis-based treatments should be carefully weighed against their risks before making any decisions about treatment options that involve either THC or CBD.

In the meantime, it’s important for consumers to be aware of the differences between THC and CBD, as well as any potential side effects that may come along with using them. It’s also wise to consult a healthcare provider before taking either substance for medical purposes. As more information is gathered and new research studies are conducted, we may be able to better inform decisions regarding cannabis-based treatments.

THC Vs. CBD FAQs

Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the differences between THC and CBD.

Are there any side effects associated with THC or CBD use?

Yes, both THC and CBD can have potential side effects depending on the individual and their unique body chemistry. For instance, THC can cause feelings of euphoria and relaxation in some users, but it may also lead to paranoia or anxiety in others.

CBD is generally considered safe for most users since it has a milder effect than THC, however some people may experience slight side effects such as fatigue or changes in appetite. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking either substance so that you can be informed about potential risks.

Are there any differences between THC and CBD?

Yes, THC and CBD are two distinct compounds found in the cannabis plant that have very different properties and effects on the user’s body. THC is psychoactive and produces a “high” feeling while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce any psychoactive effects. THC is also known to intensify certain psychological symptoms such as paranoia or anxiety in others. CBD, on the other hand, has been found to reduce these same symptoms.

Additionally, THC binds to cannabinoid receptors while CBD binds to serotonin receptors, which are involved in mood regulation and can have anti-anxiety effects on a user. It’s important to note that CBD is not a cure for mental health issues but rather can be used as an aid in managing symptoms alongside traditional treatments prescribed by medical professionals.

When it comes to deciding between THC and CBD, it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when selecting an option that works best for you. A medical professional will help guide you through this process. THC is a psychoactive compound that affects cognitive processes, while CBD does not cause a high.

What is the legislation around THC and CBD in Australia?

It is currently illegal to possess, purchase, or use THC and CBD for recreational purposes in Australia. However, there are some medical uses that doctors can prescribe it for and these products can be accessed through a prescription from a doctor. It’s important to note that the legislation between THC and CBD varies depending on the state or territory within Australia.

The legislation around THC and CBD in Australia is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). They determine which products can be legally accessed and sold within Australia. In most cases, an individual must have a prescription from a doctor or qualified medical professional in order to purchase these products.

How is THC and CBD used in medicinal cannabis?

THC and CBD are the two primary compounds found in medicinal cannabis products which have the potential to treat a range of conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety and depression. THC is used to provide relief from pain while CBD helps reduce inflammation and has calming properties that can help with anxiety and depression. It is important to note that there are other minor cannabinoids present in medical cannabis products as well, but THC and CBD are the most commonly used for medical purposes.