CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
In Florida, you can choose a CBD product, THC product or a hybrid product when you go to a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (also known as a dispensary). But which type do you choose? Most patients find they develop a preference for one over the other. Oftentimes, it comes down to whether the individual wants to experience the euphoric high elicited by THC, or if they prefer the benefits without the buzz. Rely on our experienced physicians and team to steer you in the right direction.
Many THC products contain a certain percentage of CBD, so that you get the benefit of both. You can also purchase full CBD products.
First Let’s Look at the Similarities
THC and CBD are both cannabinoids, which are compounds unique to the plant known as Cannabis. There are over 100 cannabinoids in the Cannabis plant, and THC and CBD are the most well-known and extensively researched.
These compounds actually have quite a bit in common:
· Both are available in various forms (in states where they are legal), including tinctures, capsules, edibles, buds/flowers, vape cartridges and oils
· THC and CBD both affect the endocannabinoid system in your body
· THC and CBD are chemically similar to your body’s endocannabinoids
· THC and CBD lead to the release of neurotransmitters that have an effect on pain, sleep, immune function, stress and other things
While THC and CBD have a similar molecular structure, the way their atoms are arranged differ. That’s why they have differing effects on your body and mind. Both cannabinoids have medical benefits, some of which overlap.
Cannabidiol (CBD) Explained
CBD can be extracted from hemp or from marijuana. While hemp is a Cannabis plant containing less than 0.3 percent THC, marijuana is a Cannabis plant containing higher THC. CBD is not associated with the euphoric high of THC. That tends to be the most pertinent detail to patients choosing which product to use.
Generally, CBD has been successful in the alleviation of:
· Pain
· Anxiety
· Depression
· Migraines
· Seizures
· Inflammation
· Psychosis
· Nausea
By working with an experienced doctor who is familiar with medical marijuana, you can find the right product to match the symptoms and health condition(s) you are living with.
A Closer Look at Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC produces a high. That’s really the biggest difference for patients. If the euphoria and buzz is part of what works for your symptoms and experience, then a product with higher THC may be right for you. THC is often a good match for relieving:
· Pain
· Anxiety
· Poor appetite
· Nausea
· Muscle spasticity
· Glaucoma
· Insomnia
There are possible THC side effects, such as dizziness and rapid heartbeat, which some people prefer to avoid, so they may opt for CBD. Other people find a pleasant experience from THC-heavy products.
Some people want to use their medical marijuana throughout the day, so THC may not be reasonable while they are at work or running errands. A CBD product may be fine for those things.
So Which Do You Choose?
At Access Marijuana RX in the Tampa area, our doctors do not believe in one-size-fits-all approaches to your treatment. Each person is unique and has their own expectations of the medical marijuana experience. Each person has their own combination of symptoms and an individual health history. We account for all of these personal factors when recommending marijuana products. We also follow up with our patients and foster an ongoing relationship so that we can help them monitor the success of treatment over time, making adjustments to dose, strain and product type as needed.
If you live in Florida, please contact us today. The first step to obtaining a medical card is to schedule an evaluation with us. The evaluation is risk free, so if you do not qualify for medical marijuana, you don’t pay the fee for the evaluation.
It is during this evaluation with one of our experienced physicians that we assess your symptoms and health conditions to determine if you are eligible for medical marijuana in our state. We’ll also make sure you have accurate, helpful information about what to purchase when you get to the dispensary: indica, sativa or a hybrid? THC or CBD? Smoke, vape, tincture, oil or other options? These things can feel overwhelming initially, but we demystify the process so you can find success with it. Contact us today to learn more.
