CBD and THC are both extracted from the cannabis plant
First of all, the most important similarity, and with it the reason for so much confusion. Both cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are substances that occur naturally in the cannabis plant. They are therefore also called cannabinoids. CBD and THC are the most well-known, but also CBC, CBN en CBG are, for example, cannabinoids that are widely used in dietary supplements.
CBD and THC are extracted from different types of cannabis
All cannabis plants naturally contain all cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. However, the proportion in which these substances occur in the plant varies enormously from species to species. An important difference between the cannabis that is sold in the coffee shop and the cannabis where CBD oil is made of, the contents of CBD and THC are therefore also. Coffee shop weed is also known as marijuana and is rich in THC. This is in contrast to hemp, from which CBD oil is made: it contains hardly any THC and is very rich in CBD.
Both substances act on the endocannabinoid system
Another similarity between THC and CBD is that they both bind to the endocannabinoid system. This is a system in our body that was discovered in the 90s and which plays an important role in many body processes, such as memory, temperature regulation, emotions and appetite. Because THC and CBD are very similar to substances that occur naturally in our own body, they are also recognized as such by the endocannabinoid system. In this way they help support various functions in our body.
CBD is not psychoactive, THC is
Despite the fact that CBD and THC are absorbed by the body in a similar way, their effect is completely different. THC is psychoactive and CBD is not. In plain language: THC can get you high and CBD cannot. In addition to a euphoric feeling and a change in consciousness, THC can also cause red eyes, a dry mouth, memory loss and a decrease in reaction speed. It is also known that THC can make people addicted to it and that it can cause mental problems in the long term.
CBD does not have all these side effects and negative consequences. It is 100% safe and studies have shown no long-term risk of addiction or negative health effects. You can also function with CBD as you always do. It has no effect on your alertness or your judgment, so you can work or drive with it just fine.
CBD is legal, THC is not
Partly because CBD is 100% safe to use, it is also 100% legal. As long as the percentage of THC in CBD products remains below 0,05%, it is completely legal to buy, possess and use. This is in contrast to products with more than 0,05% THC, such as marijuana and THC weed oil: these are in principle prohibited, although the sale and possession of a small amount is tolerated in our country.
Similar rules apply abroad regarding the legality of CBD and THC. In the vast majority of countries, products with a lot of THC are banned, while CBD is allowed. In any case, CBD is legal in most countries within the EU and in North America. So are you going on holiday to a country within Europe or to the US? Then you can also use the CBD in most cases take on the plane and use it at your destination.
