CBD COMPARED TO THC
CBD and THC are the two most common and well known cannabinoids found in modern cannabis varieties. Although both have positive effects, there is a big difference - THC is psychoactive, whilst CBD is not.
THC is the element responsible for the high produced by the cannabis plant. The molecule induces the euphoric, relaxing effect associated with smoking, vaping or other modes of consumption. However, THC can also contribute to some unwanted effects, giving rise to paranoia or even panic in inexperienced or unprepared users.
The secret behind these psychoactive effects? THC binds, like a magnet, to CB1 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. These CB1 receptor sites are found all throughout the central nervous system; when activated, a series of chemical changes take place that give rise to a changed state of consciousness or “high”.
Researchers have only relatively recently begun to understand how CBD works in the body. Like THC, CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system, but through a different mechanism. It is this difference that influences its effects. In short, because it does not bind with CB1 receptors like THC does, means it does not have a psychoactive / high-inducing side-effect.
Rather, CBD raises endocannabinoid levels, including those of a wonderful endocannabinoid called “anandamide” ( often referred to as the "happiness molecule" ) which in turn binds to cannabinoid receptors. CBD also targets serotonin, PPAR, GPR55 and TRPV1 named receptors to produce its effects.
Through these pathways, researchers have found that CBD can provide a whole range of different effects. It is a cannabinoid that appears to help individuals with everything from reducing anxiety and tension, to soothing sensitive skin, relieving sore and aching muscles, reducing headaches, and many more issues besides.
MIXING CBD WITH THC
Combining CBD and THC has been shown to offer countless benefits. Not only does it help to tone down the effects of a high, but the two cannabinoids together seem to actually work better when side by side. One of the easiest ways to consume both at the same time, is through inhalation such as smoking or vaping. The ideal is to choose a variety that has equal parts THC and CBD; those will provide enough THC to activate CB1 receptors, whilst having high enough levels of CBD to ward off any adverse or unwanted effects.
For consumers who are particularly sensitive to THC, or don’t desire much of a mind-altering experience, then trying a CBD-rich variety with a much lower level of THC can be a good solution. The effects of both cannabinoids will still be felt, with all the synergistic effects they entail, only with a far less powerful or hard-hitting high.
Combining CBD oils with smoking or vaping is also an oft used solution. When using a THC-rich variety of cannabis, having a bottle of CBD oil nearby to modulate the effects can be very helpful. A few drops under the tongue and waiting until it is absorbed can sometimes help lower an excessive high.
In the same way, buffering against the psychoactive effects by taking several drops before smoking is also an option. Taking CBD this way allows the consumer to dose more accurately and easily.
BENEFITS OF USING THC & CBD TOGETHER
The synergistic entourage effect of CBD & THC surpasses mere anecdotal reports. In fact, research has pointed to CBD's ability to inhibit both paranoia and memory impairment associated with excessive THC consumption. In addition, a litany of scientific studies document how the two cannabinoids together offer superior effects, under certain conditions, when used simultaneously.
A study on sleep quality published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management demonstrated the synergistic effects of CBD and THC together in a group of patients. Compared with the THC-only and placebo groups, the group receiving an extract containing both THC and CBD showed clinically significant improvements in both comfort and quality of sleep.
THE CBD : THC RELATIONSHIP
The ratio of CBD to THC in any cannabis extract, product or variety, is a pretty good indicator of the kind of effects it is going to have. Products or strains with a higher level of THC will give more of a “high”, whilst those with higher CBD levels will have less of a psychoactive effect..
Below are some ratios, and the kinds of effects that they will elicit:
CBD:THC - 1:1
The perfect balance. A 1: 1 extract or variety with equal parts THC and CBD. Users will experience an obvious psychoactive effect, but with its equal amount of CBD, it will reduce the effect. Feelings of paranoia are far less likely.
CBD:THC - 2:1
Twice the amount of CBD doubles the clear-headed experience. Users will experience a slight high, but not enough to feel overwhelmed or intoxicated. CBD blocks most of the psychoactive effects of THC, making users feel creative and uplifted.
CBD:THC - 8:1
These varieties and extracts give only a hint of a high, if any at all. Although the effects of THC may be felt, somewhat, they will not interfere with productivity or functionality. This combination is an excellent option for daytime use.
CBD:THC - 20:1
Sky-high levels of CBD along with almost no THC make these products perfect for first-time cannabis consumers. Users will not experience any feeling of a high, but the small levels of THC can contribute to the desired “entourage effect”.
CBD:THC - 1:0
Pure CBD means users can enjoy the full effects of it without any THC at all. This is perfect for those who would rather avoid any psychoactive effect at all, and for those who are subject to drug testing.
SO, DOES CBD COUNTERACT THE EFFECTS OF THC?
Although some research may seem contradictory, it appears that CBD does indeed offset or counteract some of the psychoactive effects of THC. However, and most importantly, these two molecules seem to work in concert with one another, rather than in conflict, and result in a far more pleasing experience as a consequence.
Future research will determine just how effective this relationship is, and why.
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