THC and CBD: What You Need to Know
Cannabis is a big part of the landscape in Canada. It’s estimated that a quarter of Canadians integrate Cannabis into their lives. Take a walk through your neighbourhood and you will undoubtedly stumble upon more than one cannabis retail store. You hear your friends at dinner parties discussing which strains they prefer or which gummies taste the best.
You’re interested in giving Cannabis a try, but there are so many product offerings. And if you’re still unsure about what the difference is between THC and CBD, it can become quite overwhelming. Like does this lavender-scented body lotion contain THC? What kind of buzz will I get from this CBD cucumber-lime spritz? If you’re considering incorporating THC and CBD into your life, in a simple yet informed way, you’ve come to the right place! The more you know, the better (and easier) the experience. And that's where we come in.
Let’s Start With Some Basics
All strains fall under one umbrella term: cannabis. Cannabis plants are filled with compounds that affect the mind and body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is the internal system that is responsible for the effects of cannabis and how it is distributed in the body.
The two receptors in your brain that researchers have identified as responsive to cannabis are CB1 and CB2. The two most prominent compounds in cannabis, and the subject of a lot of fascinating research, are THC and CBD. Bluntly put, no pun intended, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) will get you high, and CBD (cannabidiol) won’t. But, as with most things in life, it’s not quite that simple.
What is THC?
A cannabis plant will produce more than 400 different chemical compounds throughout its life. But the existence of simply one of those hundreds of compounds has captured the attention of mankind for nearly a century. Why? Because that one special compound interacts with the mind and body in such a manner that produces a signature blend of effects—a high, if you will.
This compound is called THC. THC, or Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, if you really want to get technical, is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. When a consumer ingests THC, the cannabinoid receptors (CB1) are activated in the brain. The outcome is commonly known as feeling high, although that type of high can vary greatly depending on the individual. Some strains may give a jolt of energy or spark creativity, while other strains may provide a more relaxed, serene feeling. More on that later.
What is CBD?
From the 400 compounds found in cannabis, more than 60 of those compounds are what scientists call “cannabinoids.” One of them, cannabidiol, or CBD, is the second most popular and important compound found in the cannabis plant. First discovered in the 1940s, a crucial difference between CBD and THC is its lack of psycho-activity (meaning CBD will not make you feel high).
Different from THC, CBD binds faintly, if at all, to CB1 receptors. It works primarily with CB2 receptors, which are found in multiple tissue and organ systems in the body, including the immune system. When consumed on its own, users experience none of the sensations of THC. However, it still is highly reactive in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Simply put, CBD makes things happen. When CBD binds to the CB2 receptors, it stimulates changes in the body. Some of these changes have been valuable, and researchers continoulsy uncover more potential.
Better Together?
The synergy between THC and CBD is known as “the entourage effect.” Though still in its nascent stage, there is research which suggests that the effect of the two is stronger than utilizing either THC or CBD alone. As an example, let’s say you suffer from chronic pain.
THC may be effective in alleviating the pain, while CBD may work towards reducing feelings of anxiety and depression that accompany the battle of chronic conditions. CBD also has the ability to block some of the intoxicating effects of THC. This produces a less intense effect, which is why the combination of THC and CBD is great for someone who is just beginning their cannabis journey.
Let Us Get You Started
Now that we’ve got a pretty good understanding of THC vs CBD; let us proceed with some products! We have gone ahead and curated a list of three products, based on method of consumption, that may pique your interest as a cannabis newbie. BEING: Fast Acting Oral CBD Strip This smoke-free alternative is an excellent choice for any cannabis beginner.
This product contains 8.00-10.00mg of CBD and 0.00-0.001mg of THC– a light yet effective dosage to get you started. When dissolved under the tongue, it can deliver its cannabinoids faster, and with a greater impact than edibles, capsules or oils. Using this product, newbies can tell quickly how CBD will make them feel. The strips can easily be cut into smaller pieces to microdose if the full strip feels too ambitious. WANA: Japanese Citrus Yuzu 2:1 Sour Soft Chews Defined by this uncommon Asian fruit, these delicious soft chews (made of all natural ingredients) are infused with 20mg of CBD and 10mg of THC.
The sweetness is unique and you can taste the hints of a distant acidity. A popular choice amongst cannabis users, old and new as it is a great middleground of the products. DIVVY: Black Widow CBD Pre-Roll This 12-pack of pre-rolls is full of CBD with a splash of THC and may provide you with a full-spectrum cannabis experience. Its lush floral fragrance with soft hints of honey feels a little woodsy, a little nutty, and a little spicy. The compact case allows you to carry it with you, wherever you may go.
