CBD vs. THC: What’s the difference?

The legal status of marijuana is changing. With this change comes confusion, especially about the difference between CBD and THC. One important difference is that the Farm Bill of 2018 Title X declared that CBD is not a Schedule 1 Drug. The Farm bill also clarified that Industrial Hemp is legal in all 50 states and differentiated Industrial Hemp from Marijuana. Marijuana and THC are not currently legal in all 50 states. CBD products derived from Industrial Hemp and which contain less than .03 percent of THC are considered safe to travel according to the most recent TSA announcement. Both CBD and THC have been touted for their health benefits, but the two stimulate very different reactions in the body. CBD is not a psychoactive compound, which means it cannot get users ‘high’. THC is known for the “high” it produces when consumed.

How Does CBD and THC Affect the Body?

They impact the body by attaching to specific receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily present in the brain and skin and influence movement and coordination, mood, appetite, thinking, and pain, among other functions. CB2 receptors are commonly found in the immune system and on every organ in the body and have a direct impact on inflammation and pain. CBD either binds weakly with CB1 and CB2 receptors or doesn’t bind at all. Instead, it directs the body’s own cannabinoids to work naturally to reduce pain and stimulate the healing process. Because CBD does not have the same psychoactive properties as THC, it does not produce a “high” when it is used.

In some cases CBD has been known to promote health in the following ways:

• Reduce both acute and chronic pain and inflammation
• Control epileptic seizures (the FDA has approved one CBD medication – Epidiolex – to treat two rare types of childhood epilepsy.)
• Relieve chronic anxiety caused by trauma, obsessive behavior and feelings of panic
• Support smokers who want to break the habit
• Help people struggling with insomnia get a full night of sleep
• Promote faster recovery from muscle soreness from exercise

Which CBD is the right CBD?

There are numerous CBD products available today, allowing you to find the most comfortable and convenient method for you. Choices might include gummies, capsules, drops or topical cream. If you are thinking of purchasing CBD products online, there are a few things to look out for to make sure that the brand you are purchasing from is legitimate, safe, and reliable. In short, you want to make sure that the items on the following checklist are clearly stated on the company’s website:

• Products are all-natural CBD
• Legal in all 50 states
• Should not contain THC (less than .03% is the accepted regulatory amount)
• 100% organic and natural
• Naturally-flavored (no artificial flavors or ingredients)
• No synthetic chemicals or chemical solvents
• 100% satisfaction guarantee (with refund)
• The company has no problem showcasing (current) lab results

How to Take CBD

Dosing instructions are included with products and advise users to begin with the smallest amounts and gradually increase the dose until you experience the desired effects. CBD is a botanical supplement that does not have many of the uncomfortable and potentially dangerous side effects of narcotics and other drugs today. If you have not been able to find relief from traditional treatments CBD may also be the solution you are seeking.

To learn more about the benefits of CBD or the products available, contact BioFit 360. We are committed to your health and offer only THC-free, GMO-free and vegan products for your consumption.