Here at Proleve, we offer a diverse variety of CBD and THC products. But for those unfamiliar with the differences between CBD and THC, finding the right cannabinoid can at times seem overwhelming. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about the differences in the therapeutic effects of CBD vs. THC, helping customers decide which of these popular cannabinoids is best-suited to their hemp wellness goals.

CBD vs. THC: An Introduction

Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids, which are naturally-occurring molecules synthesized by the hemp plant. There are over 100 different cannabinoids in hemp, each offering its own, distinctive set of therapeutic effects.

CBD, THC and the Endocannabinoid System

CBD and THC produce different effects because they have different molecular structures, which causes them to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways. The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that spreads throughout the body and brain, and both CBD and THC bind with ECS receptors in order to produce their effects.

THC produces psychoactive effects because it forms a strong bond with CB1 receptors, which are located throughout the brain’s central nervous system, and control processes such as cognition, emotion, perception, and other aspects of how we feel and think. 

CBD, on the other hand, does not bind directly with CB1 receptors in the brain, which is why it does not produce the high associated with THC. However, this weak affinity for CB1 receptors still allows CBD to support mental wellness by impacting mood, stress, sleep, and other aspects of our health. 

Merit of CBD vs THC

This psychoactivity is the most significant difference between CBD and THC, which can otherwise produce similar therapeutic properties. Below, we cover the comparative advantages and benefits of CBD and THC, highlighting the differences and similarities between these two compounds.

Merits of THC:

Proleve customers and researchers suggest that THC may be useful for: 

• Discomfort and Inflammation. Though both CBD and THC are thought to relieve discomfort, THC may be especially helpful for certain types of pain created by the nerves. Moreover, anecdotal reports suggest that because THC produces more pronounced psychoactive effects, the pain relief it provides may seem more immediately pronounced.
• Improved Mood. THC is suggested to boost mood, which is why it’s a popular choice among customers using hemp-infused products for recreational purposes. 
• Appetite & Nausea Support. THC is believed to stimulate appetite and reduce nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach.
• Muscle Relaxation. Researchers suggest that THC may relax the muscles and mitigate spasms, soothing tension and cramps. 

Merits of CBD:

• Stress Relief. CBD is suggested to reduce stress and anxiety. Though some customers use THC for stress-related purposes, its psychoactive effect can also exacerbate anxiety, especially for beginners. 
• Improved Mood. Like THC, CBD is suggested to support mood through its interaction with receptors in the central nervous system.
• Immune Support. CBD interacts with ECS receptors located on the immune cells, which is why researchers suggest that it may boost immunity. 
• Reduced Inflammation. CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, making it especially advantageous from those suffering from discomfort, swelling, soreness, and stiffness.
• Reduces Tension and Spasms. Researchers suggest that CBD may have antispasmodic properties.
• Pain Relief. Like THC, CBD is suggested to offer pain relief. However, researchers believe that CBD may target discomfort in different ways, creating potential advantages depending on the type of discomfort you experience.

CBD vs. THC: Which Cannabinoid Is Right for Me? 

When it comes to choosing between CBD and THC, we suggest taking the following factors into consideration: 

• Psychoactivity. If you’re looking for therapeutic benefits from a compound that doesn’t impact your everyday activities, CBD may be the best choice for you. THC, on the other hand, is perfect for customers who want to unwind, relax, and enjoy a more immersive cannabis experience. 
• Wellness Goals. Though CBD and THC offer many similar benefits, in certain cases, one cannabinoid may have a slight advantage over the other. In addition, you should consider whether you want to experience those benefits with or without psychoactive effects.
• Usage Occasion and Situation. When choosing between CBD and THC, think about whether a recreational or therapeutic experience is better-suited to the situations and occasions when you’re most likely to use Proleve. If you’re socializing or hoping to relax and unwind, our THC drinks and edibles may be a perfect complement to your evening. If you’re looking for an experience that’s easier to integrate into your everyday routine, CBD is a great way to harness hemp’s therapeutic properties in a non-intoxicating way.

No matter which cannabinoid you choose, you can count on Proleve for American-grown hemp cultivated with zero pesticides. Our products are third-party lab tested for purity and potency, and created in an ISO-approved facility according to the industry’s highest safety and quality standards.