CBD is derived from hemp or marijuana plants, both species of Cannabis Sativa. Hemp-derived CBD must have a THC concentration of 0.3 percent or less to be legally sold. CBD is available in many forms, including gels, gummies, oils, supplements, concentrates, and more. CBD does not give the user the feeling of being “high,” which is commonly associated with marijuana containing higher amounts of THC, over 0.3 %.
THC is the chemical aka cannabinoid in cannabis that gives off the psychoactive feeling. It can be consumed in numerous ways by smoking marijuana, vaping, eating it in food or drinks, or taking it in pill or tincture form. It produces a feeling of euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception.
Psychoactive Effects of CBD and THC
The major difference between CBD and THC lies in their psychoactive effects. While THC causes a high, CBD does not produce the same reaction. It has a psychoactive effect but not one that results in an intoxicating feeling.
THC is known to interact with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, eliciting a feeling of euphoria and a sense of being high. Inhaling THC is believed to increase the intensity of these effects instead of consuming it.
CBD does not directly interact with the CB1 receptor, like THC does, but it does require THC to produce an effect. This relationship can help to reduce the potential for some of the undesired psychoactive results of THC, for example, the feeling of being high or overly relaxed which shouldn’t be classified as a negative.
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