CBD has become all the rage for people who have been using cannabis for its medicinal benefits. The medical community has promoted CBD as a healthier alternative to THC-based products, from tinctures to oils. This is because CBD does not come with the trademark high that most people associate with cannabis. It has made THC-free supplements more accessible to older people and teetotalers.
THC-free CBD is marketed as the best option for people suffering from common and widespread health issues such as fatigue, lethargy, inflammation, pain relief, and even cancer. The continuing research shows that CBD is more beneficial for the human body than we previously thought.
THC and CBD
THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol and CBD or Cannabidiol are two out of hundreds of cannabinoids present in the Cannabis plant. The plant is filled with multiple other cannabinoids with a varying degree of use, but these two are the most famous. What exactly is the difference between these primary variants, and which one should you take?
Well, it depends on what you need cannabis for. THC is known to be highly mind-altering and is the main reason behind the euphoric high and psychoactive effects of cannabis. This makes it an excellent product for recreation.
On the other hand, CBD provides all the physiological benefits of cannabis without the psychotropic effects making it the go-to for people who want to use cannabis for purely medicinal purposes.
Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are molecules found in the human body that send signals to the body. The endocannabinoid system is tasked with managing bodily functions like mood, sleep, memory, and appetite.
When the body produces endocannabinoids, they latch on to specific receptors that send signals to your brain to manage the body’s functions. Once these molecules have been received and have done their job, they are broken down by enzymes and destroyed.
THC and CBD interact differently with the Endocannabinoid system in your body. THC tends to bind to endocannabinoid receptors and starts copying the function of the endocannabinoid itself. This means even if your body is not producing the molecule to regulate your mood, THC stands in as a replacement.
THC-free CBD, on the other hand, works on the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids. It acts as an obstacle for these enzymes and delays their function so that the body can enjoy the endocannabinoids for longer durations.
The Result
Because of their differing interactions, THC tends to wear off faster as the enzymes in your body break them down swiftly. CBD has a more prolonged and less psychoactive effect due to them blocking the enzymes and letting the body access its endocannabinoids. The following are the results of this reaction:
- Pain relief from prolonged reception of endocannabinoids
- Better sleep due to overall improved mood
- Better cognitive abilities due to improved serotonin and dopamine management
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Prolonged pain management for cancer patients
- Anti-inflammation and lack of discomfort
The Outlook
THC-free CBD is meant for medical use, but the improvements it can bring to the overall mood and brain function make it an ideal choice over THC for people who want relief from problematic symptoms. Remember to check the potency and authenticity of the CBD oil before you buy it.
