The legalization of marijuana in some states but not others, and the legalization of CBD in all states (although conditional in some places), has led to many people wondering what the difference is between CBD and marijuana. While they are both derived from the cannabis plant, there are actually quite a few differences between the two. Here’s a quick rundown of the most notable differences between CBD and marijuana.
What is CBD and how is it different from marijuana?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s typically extracted from hemp, which is a strain of cannabis that contains no more than 0.3% THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. CBD has become increasingly popular due to its potential medical benefits. Studies suggest it may help reduce inflammation, ease anxiety and depression symptoms, and even act as an antioxidant. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce any “high” or euphoric sensation, making it an attractive option for those looking for natural relief from various conditions without having to worry about feeling “high”. Additionally, CBD is non-addictive and can be used safely even by individuals who have existing drug dependencies. In other words, it provides relief without the potential risk of addiction associated with certain pharmaceutical drugs.
CBD and marijuana are both derived from the cannabis plant, but they are different
CBD and marijuana may both come from the same cannabis plant, but they are as different as night and day. The Cannabis plant is an annual herbaceous flowering plant in the Cannabis genus, Cannabaceae family. There are three distinct types of cannabis plants – Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis. Hemp and marijuana are both subspecies of the cannibas sativa plant. CBD is most commonly sourced from the hemp plant, which has very different levels of THC (that’s the stuff that makes you high) than a marijuana plant.
When it comes to CBD and marijuana, a few key differences stand out. CBD is often taken for its medicinal value – for instance, to reduce anxiety and manage chronic pain – while marijuana is used more for recreational purposes where the ‘high’ feeling is desired. Moreover, CBD does not cause any altered mental state or hangover effects, making it a preferable option to many. Finally, CBD has trace amounts of THC (the compound that induces the high) whereas marijuana typically contains much higher levels of THC.
CBD does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use
When discussing the differences between CBD and marijuana, an oft-cited detail is that CBD does not produce the psychoactive “high” associated with marijuana use. THC is famous for being what gives marijuana its characteristic high. Unlike CBD, THC directly activates cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, which results in a feeling of euphoria or elevated consciousness. Although both CBD and THC are cannabinoids found in cannabis, they interact with the body differently; THC binds to receptor sites that are abundant within the central nervous system whereas CBD does not bind to them directly and produces no psychoactive effects on its own. That’s why marijuana gives you a high but CBD does not – it has low amounts of THC so it doesn’t activate these receptors which cause changes in consciousness, mood or perception.
with image: There are many different cannabinoids, which all effect the human body differently.
But even without the “high”, the peace of mind derived from ingesting CBD could be seen as equally valuable – after all, what more can we ask for than a little clarity? So if you’re looking to get in on the plant-derived health and wellness craze without sacrificing your mental faculties, CBD may be just what you need.
CBD can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including pain, anxiety, and seizures
CBD is quickly becoming known as a powerful medical option. While it has been used for decades by holistic healers and alternative medical practitioners, recent scientific studies have made it more widely available and acceptable feeling.
These studies have found that CBD can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It has also been demonstrated to possess anticonvulsant properties, meaning it could be a potential treatment for epilepsy. CBD can also be used to help with chronic pain and inflammation, as well as nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy treatments. In short, the medical benefits of CBD are wide-ranging and ever-growing! So if you’re searching for a natural remedy to suit your health needs, do some research on the potential medicinal properties of CBD and see if it could be right for you.
Marijuana is still illegal in many states, while CBD is legal in all 50 states
Despite being from the same plant species, marijuana and CBD are two entirely different substances that present varying legal circumstances. Though marijuana is still illegal in many states, CBD is now completely legal in all fifty, albeit with some states having conditions as to the extent and nature of using CBD. Marijuana is more controversial from state-to-state. CBD on the other hand, is becoming more widely accepted.
While the medicinal or recreational effects of CBD are not as pronounced as those of marijuana, it’s authorized for use in nearly every region. As such, if you’re looking to explore some potential health benefits without breaking any laws, then you may want to look into different types of CBD products rather than pursue marijuana.
Is CBD better than medical mairjuana?
When it comes to the question of whether CBD is better than medical marijuana, there is no clear answer. Both substances provide unique benefits and have their own respective drawbacks. CBD generally does not produce any psychoactive effects, so it may be preferred by those looking for relief without altered consciousness, whereas marijuana can offer more significant pain relief but also carries with it a higher risk of side-effects due to its greater THC content. It also isn’t legal everywhere in the US, and where it is legal there are often specific stipulations or rules that are important to follow to stay on the right side of the law.
CBD is gaining acceptance as a powerful medical option with a wide range of potential uses. As CBD is now legal in all fifty states, this makes it much easier to access than marijuana which continues to be heavily restricted in many places due to its psychoactive components.
On the other hand, medical marijuana has been used successfully by many patients to treat their conditions effectively and legally depending on their location. It often offers more potent relief from symptoms like pain or nausea. Additionally, the presence of THC in marijuana can contribute an additional therapeutic effect that cannot be found in CBD alone.
In the end, deciding between CBD and medical marijuana will come down to personal preference and individual circumstances. Different people may respond differently to each substance and what works best will depend upon individual needs and desired outcomes. Ultimately though both are viable options for those seeking therapeutic relief from their condition.
—
In conclusion, it’s important to remember that CBD and marijuana are not the same. CBD can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions and is now legal in all 50 states, while marijuana remains illegal in many places. In our opinion, there’s no need to take a “risky” leap when gaining access to the numerous benefits that CBD has to offer because all you need to do is go online and find a trusted source for a wide variety of CBD products. For post people, CBD is an appropriate option to consider in their wellness journey. Thanks for reading about this important topic!