The Essential Guide to Utilizing Both CBD and THC in Cannabis

Cannabidiol (CBD) vs Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

To understand the difference between CBD and THC, we have to first understand what they are in the first place.

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are just two of more than 100 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.

Simply put, cannabinoids are organic chemical compounds secreted by the plant that just happen to imitate humans’ own endocannabinoids (specialized neurotransmitters). Neurotransmitters are chemical compounds that relay messages from the brain to the body (think of other neurotransmitters like adrenaline or serotonin).

The body has an entire system dedicated to endocannabinoids, which help regulate mood, memory, movement and coordination, emotion, and motivation, among many other important processes.

Basically, the chemicals CBD and THC and the brain are like a key and lock. The chemicals have a certain structure (the key) that fits into the brain (the lock).

How do CBD and THC Interact with the Body?

Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids that interact with the body's natural endocannabinoid system.

There are three main components to understanding this system: the endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.

Because CBD and THC can mimic the structure of our naturally occurring endocannabinoids, we experience a flood of these neurotransmitters whenever we consume cannabis.

CBD and THC bind to the receptor of a cell (the lock and key), then, once its task is finished, important enzymes break down the chemical compound. (Think of your liver breaking down alcohol.)

Normally, the human body has natural endocannabinoids floating around our bloodstream, regulating important processes. When we smoke, eat, or vape, we ingest a greater amount of molecules that can trick the brain into thinking there are more endocannabinoids in our system.

Although we have endocannabinoid receptors in many different places in the brain (such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus), we actually have these receptors all over our body, including our spinal column, arms, legs, and stomach area, among others.

The main difference between CBD and THC here is that CBD doesn't bind to the same receptors as TCH does. In fact, scientists suspect it doesn't bind to receptors at all but that it instead blocks other endocannabinoids from being broken down.

Better Together / The Entourage Effect

Think of your squad and how awesome you are together. You could say the same when it comes to CBD and THC.

You can always consume either separately, but there is some evidence that consuming CBD and THC together, along with other organic compounds found in cannabis (like terpenes, flavonoids, and amino acids) is more effective than taking either one separately. The entirety of the pharmacological effect is greater than the sum of the parts!

Mother Nature designed one cool plant.

Sava offers a rich selection of THC edibles from this woman-owned brand. Indulge in Terra Bites chocolate-covered blueberries, sea salt caramels, dark chocolate covered almonds, or cookie bites. Each bite has 5mg of THC that promotes energy, creativity, and socializing. These medium-psychoactivity "anytime" bites can be enjoyed on their own or with a friend. The best part? They use all-natural ingredients, so you don't have to worry about consuming anything stuffed with preservatives.

The Legality of CBD vs THC

As of right now, hemp-derived CBD products are legal federally.

Conversely, cannabis-derived CBD is illegal federally but legal in some states (Don't worry, we'll talk about the difference here in a second). Thankfully, in California, both THC and CBD products are legal.

The Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis Derived CBD

Now, what's the difference between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived, and why is it important?

Basically, hemp-derived products often rely on "big agriculture", meaning industrial hemp, which contains far less CBD than cannabis-derived. Because of the industrial nature of growing and processing hemp, there is also the risk of hemp CBD containing trace particles of heavy metals, mold, pesticides, and other nasty stuff you really don't want in your system. The CBD from the hemp market is also unregulated, meaning that inaccurate labeling is a big concern.

In fact, one study demonstrated that among CBD products, only 30% of products were accurately labeled; the rest either had higher or lower amounts of CBD in their product than were advertised on the packaging.

You might not think that this is a big deal with a non-intoxicating product like CBD. However, that same study found that THC was present in 20% (one-fifth!) of products. Not ideal for someone who only wants CBD.

Finally, we talked about the entourage effect earlier. Using CBD from cannabis instead of industrial hemp, if extracted correctly (without carbon dioxide or butane), allows for the careful preservation of all terpenes, amino acids, and other natural chemicals and compounds that enhance the properties of CBD.

Cannabis CBD products, what we carry at Sava, are also highly regulated and tested for accuracy of cannabinoid content, pesticides, molds, heavy metals, and more. They must meet a very high standard to be sold by a dispensary.

That's why at Sava, we pride ourselves in stocking our shelves with quality, small-batch products, so you know exactly what you're getting. Our products have been independently tested, so what you see on the label is what you get.

Final Thoughts

Remember, this article is only a guide. Talk to your doctor about any specific health needs you may have, but don't be shy asking about the difference between CBD and THC, how to use cannabis oil, health benefits of cannabis or even about THC and CBD side effects.