CBD is the gray area of cannabis. If produced within the federal guidelines of hemp, CBD products are 100% legal.
This has created an opening in the cannabis market for a whole new future of Cannabis products (products derived from the Cannabis Sativa species). The market is now saturated with all sorts of CBD products.
What exactly is CBD and how is it different than smoking THC?
Read on to learn the difference between the two and all the different ways you can consume CBD.
CBD vs THC
CBD and THC are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. That means both hemp and marijuana contain these two cannabinoids.
In most instances, the term THC refers to Delta 9 THC, or D9, which is the main psychoactive component in marijuana that makes users feel high or stoned.
For this reason, D9 THC is heavily regulated by the federal government. The 2018 Farm Bill stipulates a 0.3% limit of D9 THC (in dry weight) for any hemp or cannabis-derived products.
Contrary, CBD products tend to come from hemp plants and can contain a range of 0% THC to less than 0.3% THC.
Benefits of CBD
CBD and CBD products have become so popular overnight because of the medicinal benefits of this cannabinoid. While there is still a lot to be learned about CBD, early research has shown there is a wide range of benefits to taking CBD.
CBD users can experience relief and treatment in the following areas:
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Stress
- Inflammation
CBD has made a world of a difference for users who have suffered from chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. It has helped to increase their overall quality of life.
Side Effects of Smoking THC and CBD
Smoking THC and CBD differ in the effects that users feel. Some of the main differences in smoking THC vs CBD is that THC may give you red, glossy eyes, a dry mouth, couchlock, and munchies. CBD, on the other hand, may induce tiredness and drowsiness.
CBD does not offer a psychoactive high. Instead, the effects pertain more to physical and emotional relief.
Tip: Depending on your CBD product (whether it is an isolate, broad-, or full-spectrum product), you may fail a drug test if the product contains THC.
Other Ways to Take CBD
Smoking isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you cannot still enjoy the medicinal properties of CBD. Here are a few different ways to take CBD besides smoking the actual CBD flower.
- Gummies
- Vapes
- Tinctures
- Oil
- Topical Creams
Nowadays, it seems CBD retailers sell all sorts of products infused with CBD. The best thing about that is that you can find a product that works well for you.
For those looking to take CBD on the go with them, CBD gummies and CBD vapes are the way to go. They are both convenient and discreet, which is perfect for a night out or a concert.
The Gifts of the Medicinal Plant
Self-care, better health, and a better quality of life. These are a few benefits that the Cannabis Sativa plant has to offer.
Legally, you can take advantage of this healing plant too, by consuming CBD in all its different forms. Smoking CBD is one of them and unlike smoking THC, you won’t get high.
Read more on the latest news and trends in the CBD and cannabis market in our health care and lifestyle sections!