If you think about the term “CBD”, you will inevitably come across “THC”. But you can’t mistakenly equate these two types. Although they come from the same plant, they are still different components. However, the effects of CBD and THC are also different, and the legal situation is also different. To help you understand the difference between these two substances, let’s briefly summarize them.
What is THC?
THC is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. It is a chemical substance that is released by plant glands. If you look closely at the plant, the highest dose occurs around the reproductive
organs. High doses are also found in the resin glands of the flowers and buds of female plants. The cannabis plant yields more than 400 compounds, but THC is the best known
active ingredient. After all, people directly associate it with terms like “weed,” “high,” or “joint.” We humans use THC to get ourselves high, but in the plant world, this active
ingredient has a very different purpose. Its purpose is to protect plants from natural enemies such as viruses, parasites and bacteria. Although the cannabis plant does this,
THC does not induce antibacterial properties in the human body.
Is THC legal?
When comparing CBD and THC, you also need to consider legality, because this is where you will find the biggest difference. In Germany, THC is only available on prescription.
This means that it can be legally used for medical purposes, but it must be prescribed by a doctor. The situation is different for recreational use, as it is illegal. But this situation
could change in the next few years as many regional efforts hope to legalize marijuana. The reason is that the perception of cannabis has changed a lot. However, it is still illegal
to this day. Therefore, smoking marijuana not only leads to fines, but can even lead to jail time. Now let’s take a look at CBD.
What is CBD?
First of all, it is important not to equate CBD with THC. Although these two substances come from the same plant, their effects are different. CBD is short for cannabidiol and is
one of the many active ingredients in the hemp plant. First, it cannot be used to induce intoxication. Therefore, there is no “high”, but it has a greater impact on the health of the
body. It is often used as an analgesic and to treat various diseases. In recent years, numerous studies have looked at CBD and found antipsychotic and anti- epileptic effects. However, it should be mentioned that research on CBD is far from complete. In this regard, not all side effects and interactions are known. Nevertheless, CBD is generally considered to be very safe and harmless. Accordingly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has also confirmed that it is an active ingredient that neither relies on nor poses a health risk. Especially in terms of side effects, there are currently only a few known representatives. This makes CBD an excellent alternative to more aggressive drugs.
Is CBD legal?
We have already mentioned that CBD does not cause a high. It is therefore not subject to the narcotics law and can therefore be freely sold in stores. You can already find many
products containing CBD in pharmacies. But the range of health food stores and pharmacies is also increasing. The biggest advantage is that you do not need a prescription for the oils or similar. You can purchase these preparations completely free. However, many stores still avoid offering CBD. The reason is the bad reputation of cannabis and the low knowledge about the subject. Many people think that it is just as bad or addictive as THC, even though this is not the case. The offers on the internet are pretty extensive, so it is necessary to pay attention to high quality.
– Both CBD and THC come from the hemp plant, but have different functions.
– Both active ingredients are bound to the ECS receptor and thus block the function of THC, but CBD only inhibits it.
– CBD is not addictive and only supports the body.
– THC can be addictive and lead to a “high” feeling.
– CBD is used to treat many different diseases and minor illnesses, such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, or Alzheimer’s disease.
– THC also has medicinal value, but in most cases its active ingredients are consumed recreationally and illegally.
– CBD can be sold freely in pharmacies, health food stores, drug stores, and on the Internet.
– THC can only be purchased through a certificate. Otherwise, the use of THC is illegal (yet).
– CBD comes in many forms, such as drops, oils, tablets, food, or cosmetics.
– THC is usually smoked, but can also be ingested through e-cigarettes or food.