What Is CBD and THC?
With cannabis being legalized in many countries, it is most certain that you would have heard of the terms CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) at some point even if you are a non-cannabis user. Despite their differences, both CBD and THC have more in common than you think! For example, both are phytocannabinoids having identical molecular structures and are derived from plants belonging to the genus ‘Cannabis’.
Moreover, both of these compounds may chemically interact with the human body.
The main difference lies in the effect of these compounds on your body. For example, while THC is psychoactive in nature, CBD is not. Hence, the effects of CBD and THC strongly influence the legal status of these compounds.
Consuming THC may produce feelings of euphoria / sedation, also known as "high", which, on the other hand, CBD does not. So, overall, when you consider THC versus CBD, CBD is recognized worldwide as being safer and healthier versus THC. This is also the reason why CBD is legal in many countries where THC continues to be illegal.
How is CBD Used?
A number of different CBD products exist in the market today. Some of the most common ones include CBD oil, gummies, vapes, tinctures, and CBD-infused coffee and beer. Let’s first have a look at how CBD oil is made. CBD is first extracted from the cannabis plant and diluted with base oils such as hemp seed oil, olive oil, or coconut oil. Base oils are also called carrier oils and help to carry CBD oil.
CBD oral sublingual drops may be one of the most effective ways of consuming CBD oil. This is a simple and straightforward process that involves placing CBD oil under your tongue using a dropper.
This method, although more expensive and less convenient, may possibly be found to be more effective since it allows the CBD to be absorbed faster into your bloodstream and continues to stay in your body for longer periods of time as compared to other methods of consumption.
CBD is also being used as one of the common ingredients in various skin creams, lotions, and ointments.
Benefits of CBD
Research has shown that although both CBD and THC may have similar health benefits, more people prefer CBD over THC since CBD usage lacks the sedative side effects which accompany THC use. In other words, CBD doesn’t get you high!
Some notable CBD benefits may include its possible potential to help reduce psychotic symptoms. CBD is also believed to exhibit neuroprotective properties.
Although more research might be required, a significant number of studies have indicated the possible positive effects that this compound can have on the cardiovascular system.
Results from scientific research may have been shown that cannabinoids exhibit properties such as blocking cell growth and inducing cell death, both of which are very useful. However, results from the laboratory research conducted so far have been mixed.
Side Effects of CBD
Individual side effects and contraindications are possible, as is the case with any product.
If you are undergoing treatment for an underlying health condition, you should especially be careful while using CBD due to the compound’s tendency to interact with medications such as blood thinners.
The most common side effects experienced by CBD users may include fatigue, dry mouth, diarrhea, drowsiness, and a significant reduction in appetite.
However, it is always advisable to talk to a medical professional before using CBD products.
What is THC Used For
THC is best known for its intoxicating effects, as it is the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. It can come in various forms for consumption, as well as in some prescribed medications.
Benefits of THC
THC is often referred to as the psychoactive component of cannabis. This is why it continues to be illegal for general consumption. However, researches could show that THC may have a number of properties that affect the symptoms of various diseases, in some cases making them less intense, mainly in chronic conditions. It is also thought to increase hunger in people with eating disorders.
However, this compound is still banned in most countries and more research is needed to better understand the potential benefits of this compound and the correct methods to use it.
Side Effects of THC
Apart from its most well-known intoxicating effects, a THC user might also experience other unpleasant side effects such as headache and lightheadedness. THC can also interfere with your sleeping pattern by making you excessively lethargic and sleepy. It is also important that you keep yourself well hydrated while consuming THC since it can reduce saliva production and result in dry mouth, also known as cotton mouth. Another known common side effect is itchy, dry and red eyes which can easily be managed by using eye drops.
THC is also known to possiby have an effect on your mental health, especially if you are an individual who suffers from disorders such as anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
Other known possible negative side effects of THC include problems with memory and coordination, delayed reaction time and an increase in heart rate. Hence, an individual who is willing to use THC for medical purposes is required to do so after seeking advice from a doctor.
CBD and Drug Test
Products containing only CBD without THC may not be detected in a drug test. However, if the product you use contains not only CBD, but sufficient amounts of THC, then it possibly can result in a positive drug test. CBD products often contain varying concentrations of THC and are either derived from hemp or marijuana, which are two different names referring to the same plant cannabis.
However, what makes them different from each other is the amount of THC that they contain. If you want your drug test to be negative, then you should possibly consider using hemp-derived products which comparatively contain a very low THC high CBD.
To be sure of the quality of the CBD products you use, only purchase from reputable manufacturers. Responsible manufacturers always follow the guidelines permitted by the laws of the country.
THC and Drug Test
If you are a THC user, then the chances of getting a positive result on a drug test greatly depends on a number of factors such as your body mass, gender, metabolism, hydration, frequency of use and whether you are an occasional or heavy user.
Drug test for THC is usually carried out through urine, hair, saliva or blood tests. Urine tests are the most common type of detection tests used by most workplaces and are used to indicate recent use of the drug. Unlike saliva and blood tests however, they cannot indicate whether a person is currently under the influence of the drug.
Since marijuana remains in the bloodstream for a short duration, THC blood test is rarely used as a method of detection except at roadside checkpoints or during major motorway accidents. Hair tests on the other hand may or may not be able to detect the daily use of marijuana. They are also quite unreliable since they cannot accurately indicate the exact quantity of marijuana used.
The best way to get a negative drug test is to completely stop your marijuana use. However, depending upon your frequency of use, the THC is still detectable several days or ( months in some cases) after you stop using the drug. For example, if you have been using the drug regularly, then test results may turn out positive for 45 days after you quit or even longer.
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