Among the more than 100 cannabinoids identified so far in the cannabis plant, CBD and THC they certainly occupy a place of honor. Both interact with our endocannabinoid system, resulting in benefits for our body, however, they present clear differences which outline completely different substances. Let's discover them in order.
THC and CBD: the differences
As anticipated, THC and CBD are two cannabinoids with a similar molecular structure, which both interact with our endocannabinoid system. System responsible for homeostasis, i.e. the maintenance of the internal balance of an organism, and therefore essential for its correct functioning.
The endocannabinoid system is mainly composed of three elements, the endocannabinoids (endogenous cannabinoids similar to the phytocannabinoids of cannabis), CB1 and CB2 receptors and enzymes, whose task is to break down the endogenous cannabinoids once they have performed their function and rebalanced the body.
The first difference between THC and CBD arises precisely from here, since the first (THC) binds to CB1 receptors present in the central nervous system, therefore which mainly affect the brain and spinal cord and the second (CBD), however, binds to CB2 receptors, present in the peripheral systems of our body, in particular the immune system.
From this premise we derive the second difference, namely that THC, by binding to the CB1 receptors present in the central nervous system, therefore the brain and the spinal cord, generates those psychoactive effects for which he is so well known. On the other hand, CBD It does not boast psychotropic effects and, by interacting with CB2 receptors, it influences the rest of the body, from muscles to bones, to the immune system. Furthermore, CBD is able to interfere with the action of THC, reducing its psychoactive effect.
CBD and THC: the properties
By interacting with our endocannabinoid system, CBD and THC both exert effects therapeutic properties for our body confirmed by numerous scientific research. In fact, both cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are used in the medical field for the treatment of various pathologies.
In particular the CBD he is known for his skills:
- analgesic and anti-inflammatory;
- anxiolytic;
- neuro-protective;
- antiemetics;
- anticonvulsant;
- energizing and antioxidant;
- natural relaxant, capable of improving the quality of sleep.
On the other hand, Il THC it is used for:
- relieve pain
- treat glaucoma
- reduce muscle spasms from multiple sclerosis
- sleep disorders
- treat anxiety and depression
- stimulate appetite
- soothe nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy and radiotherapy
- treat Alzheimer's
- Tourette's syndrome
Two compounds from the same plant, each with its own characteristics, which however both benefit our health. However, we remind you that the consumption of THC is only permitted under medical prescription, however i products rich in CBD they are legal in Italy with the law of 2 December 2016 n. 242 which promotes the cultivation of hemp.
