First off, let me explain to you that cannabis plants contain tons of chemical compounds called “cannabinoids”, the number of cannabinoids can reach over a hundred, and THC vs CBD are the two most recognized cannabinoids in this psychedelic green plant.
Keep reading to learn more about these cannabinoids while they may have a lot in common, there are some distinct differences that THC and CBD have.
Key Takeaways
- THC and CBD are both chemical compounds that come from cannabis plants.
- THC is the main compound found in cannabis that makes you feel high, while CBD isn’t psychoactive.
- THC and CBD hold their medicinal properties and unwanted side effects.
- Cannabis is legal in Thailand as long as it extracts not more than 0.2% THC by weight.
What is THC?
THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is the main psychoactive chemical in the cannabis plant that is responsible for making you feel “high”. It’s available in smokable products, oils, edibles, tinctures, and more.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a relative of the THC. Unlike THC, CBD isn’t intoxicated which means it doesn’t make you high. CBD holds certain medical properties usually sold in various forms such as oils, extracts, and topical lotions.
What makes them different?
Sources
Both THC and CBD come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa. However, CBD usually comes from the hemp plant which is a type of cannabis plant. Hemp plants normally produce very little THC (less than 0.3%) while cannabis plants that produce high THC concentrations (more than 0.3%) are considered marijuana.
Chemical Structure
Both THC and CBD share a similar chemical structure that contains 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. However, there’s a slight difference in how the atoms are arranged between THC and CBD.
Psychoactive Properties
Psychoactive properties are what make the difference between THC and CBD stand out the most. There’s a misconception about only THC being psychoactive while CBD is not. In fact, according to Monique McHenry, a Ph.D., director of the Medical Cannabis Center for Research and Education at the University of Vermont Medical School, CBD is still psychoactive which means that it still affects the mind – it’s just not intoxicating or makes you feel high. THC makes you “high” or intoxicated from the interactions with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in your body.
Health Benefits of THC and CBD
Many have been using THC and CBD to help with certain medical conditions, both physically and mentally. Some may prefer CBD over THC for its non-intoxicated or euphoric effect.
THC may have the potential to help with the following:
- Insomnia
- Glaucoma
- Appetite loss
- Nausea
- Chronic pain
- Muscle spasms
CBD is often prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with:
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Depressed
- Inflammation
- Migraines
- Post-traumatic disorder (PTSD)
Side Effects of THC and CBD
THC can cause short-term side effects from the psychoactive properties and long-term negative effects resulting from consuming large amounts of THC. It can lead to hospitalization when consumed in higher doses. Those consuming THC may experience some of the following side effects:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Memory loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Loss of balance
- Increase in heart rate
Meanwhile, CBD is reported to be safe with no abuse potential and won’t lead to hospitalization even with high doses. It mostly leads to sleepiness and is more likely to interact with other medications taken by an individual which may lead to liver issues over the long term use. Consulting with the medical officer before consuming CBD is recommended to avoid unwanted effects. Other side effects of CBD can include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Lightheadedness
- Tiredness
- Low blood pressure
THC and CBD Legality in Thailand
Weed is still legal in Thailand since its turn for legality back in 2022. According to the PR Thai Government, only less than 0.2% THC by weight is allowed for possession, planting, and selling but the Ministry of Public Health must be informed through the PlookGanja application.
Any of the following actions are illegal according to the Narcotics Act, Category 5, and will cause greater issues such as fine charges and imprisonment penalties:
- Consuming cannabis extracts more than 0.2% THC.
- Possession of other substances that are not involved in the exemption falls under the term “legal cannabis extract”.
- Import cannabis from outside into the Thai border.
- Export cannabis across the Thai border.
- Smoking cannabis in public.
Final words
Cannabis plants produce over 100 cannabinoids but the two most well-known cannabinoids are THC, the one that can get you high, and CBD, the one that isn’t intoxicated while both are psychoactive. THC may help the individual with insomnia, appetite loss, and nausea. Meanwhile, CBD can alleviate some medical conditions such as seizures, inflammation, and mood disorders.
Both THC and CBD are generally safe when used at recommended doses and taken correctly. However, some may experience side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth when taken THC and CBD may cause low blood pressure, tiredness, and sleepiness.
