As CBD and Cannabis are becoming more popular with time, many people tend to throw around the terms interchangeably. It is mainly because they do not know the difference between the two or what Cannabis or CBD are exactly. Let’s find out about them in detail to understand their difference.
Cannabis
Cannabis, often synonymous with weed or marijuana, is derived from the Cannabis plant, most commonly the Cannabis Sativa plant. The other type of Cannabis plant is the Cannabis Indica plant. The Cannabis Sativa plant has more than 500 compounds, and CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of them.
Another of these compounds is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound of Cannabis. THC is transmitted to the brain through the bloodstream, and it is why consumption of Cannabis in excessive amounts can cause a hallucinogenic effect or get you high.
Use of Cannabis
Cannabis can be consumed through smoking or as edibles or oils. It may be used for recreational purposes, but it is more popularly used for various health benefits than medical marijuana. It is known to help manage pain, alleviate stress and anxiety and aid in managing various medical conditions like Crohn’s disease, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis etc. It is beneficial in treating insomnia and loss of appetite.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD or Cannabidiol is the chemical compound derived from the hemp-based Cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol, which is also a chemical element found in Cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive and does not induce the “high” effect.
Lately, extensive research has been done on the use and benefits that can be derived from CBD. While there are a lot of apprehensions surrounding the phenomenon, CBD is being touted as a revolutionary medicinal aid that can be beneficial in the treatment of a number of medical conditions.
Use of CBD
Currently, CBD is available in many forms, including vape liquids, edible gummies, oils, drops and creams and balms etc. CBD is known to induce its impact by interacting with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system and acting on the body’s function where the problem lies.
It is known to help treat chronic pain and inflammation and can be helpful for patients suffering from conditions like arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help improve cardiovascular health. It can also help improve the digestive function in the body by improving the absorption of nutrients in the bloodstream.
CBD is also known to help manage and treat the symptoms of neurological diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. When applied to the skin, it is known to improve skin conditions and treat conditions like eczema by reducing dryness and acne.
Final Word
While both Cannabis and CBD are derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant, CBD does not get you high as there is no THC. As per law, commercially available CBD cannot have more than 0.3% THC. On the other hand, Cannabis does have THC and can get you high if consumed excessively. While more research is being carried out in the area, the use of Cannabis and CBD has been legalized in select areas (see online dispensary canada) and under certain circumstances.
