With the progression of cannabis legalization, CBD and THC oils have gained popularity, with THC often chosen for recreational purposes and CBD for its general wellness potential.
But how do they compare to each other? Is one better than the other?
Today, we're going to compare common points of interest in CBD and THC oil and help you figure out which oil type is better for your needs.
What this article covers:CBD VS THC Oil (Compared)
Based on our research, these are the key differences between CBD oil and THC oil.
|
CBD |
THC |
|
|
Chemical Formula & Structure |
CBD has the same chemical formula (C₂₁H₃₀O₂) as THC but with a different structure |
THC has the same chemical formula (C₂₁H₃₀O₂) but with a different structure |
|
Price |
CBD is on average slightly pricier than THC |
THC is on average more affordable than CBD |
|
Medicinal Uses |
CBD is explored for its potential in supporting general wellness |
THC offers some medicinal benefits |
|
Produces A High |
CBD is non intoxicating |
THC does produce a high |
|
Side Effects |
CBD side effects are very uncommon |
THC side effects are more common, especially for beginners and those using too much THC at once |
|
Drug Testing |
CBD does not show up in drug testing unless there is a false positive or THC in the CBD product |
THC does show up on drug tests |
Chemical Formula & Structure
CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) are both components of the cannabis plant. However, they are very different from each other.
Both CBD and THC have the same chemical formula (C₂₁H₃₀O₂). It consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. While the formula is the same, the structure of the atoms is different, which changes how these chemicals react in our bodies.
Price
If you compare the price of 500mg CBD oil with a THC product of a similar size, you'll notice that THC is a little cheaper. Across the board, THC products are more affordable than CBD products.
According to our research, there are two explanations for why CBD is more expensive.
First, creating THC-free CBD oils is a complex and time-consuming process. The CBD refinement process takes a long time, especially for companies that are committed to producing quality CBD oil.
Next, demand has drastically increased for CBD products. The THC market has grown steadily, especially as laws become more lax on selling and using. But the growth of THC consumption is nothing when compared to that of CBD use.
As more studies bring to light to amazing benefits of regular CBD use, demand for it has increased. CBD demand has almost outstripped CBD production rates, causing an excess demand.
CBD takes a long time to make and the refinement process is expensive. Combine this with the increased demand and production obstacles, and it's clear why CBD is sometimes a bit more expensive than THC.
Medicinal Uses
CBD is being researched for its potential to support areas such as sleep, stress, and pain management. THC is also being explored for its potential effects on mild discomfort, nausea, and sleep-related challenges.
Produces A High
If you're looking into CBD or THC, you've likely come across many myths and misinformation regarding CBD and getting high.
THC does produce a high or euphoric state in users. THC stimulates neurons in the brain, which release dopamine. The increase in dopamine causes users to feel intoxicated.
All this is fine if you're a recreational user. But if you want to use cannabis as a natural tool for pain, anxiety, stress, etc., you can't be high at work or on the road!
That's where CBD comes in handy. Most commercially sold low THC CBD oil, is under 0.3%. Others, like Pure Spectrum CBD, contain no THC at all. This means you reap all the benefits of the cannabis plant without any of the intoxicating side effects.
The only sort of “high” users experience with CBD is an “uplifted” feeling. This is the result of CBD lessening pain, stress, and anxiety.
Side Effects
THC use can have some adverse side effects.
Mild THC side effects include getting high, which can impair motor and cognitive function. This is especially dangerous if you are operating machinery or driving. Other mild side effects, most often the product of THC over consumption, include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea.
There is also a link between THC and low motivation and depression. Severe symptoms from THC use include THC dependency and psychosis. It's also been shown to react negatively with mental illnesses like schizophrenia.
With CBD, on the other hand, overuse is very rare. Most CBD side effects are the result of CBD interacting with medication, but these cases are also extremely rare. It is important to consult your doctor before beginning any natural supplement to check for potential drug interactions.
CBD does cause any impairment and can be taken before work, before driving, etc.
Drug Testing
Finally, let's compare how CBD and THC react with drug testing. If, for whatever reason, you don't want to show up positive on a drug test, then THC is off the table for you.
Both THC and CBD are stored in your fat. Most drug tests are only testing for the presence of THC–unless the drug test is specifically designed for CBD.
If you're using pure CBD products or CBD isolates with no THC, your drug tests will be clear.
If you want to avoid testing positive, use only CBD. Always purchase from a company that sells CBD products with no THC and who is forthcoming about the ingredients in their products. For example, we post our lab test results so that you can see exactly what goes into your CBD product.
CBD Or THC Oil?
Now that we've taken a look at all the technical aspects of CBD and THC and compared them with each other, let's determine which product is the best.
THC Oil
THC oil is a popular option for many cannabis enthusiasts. It provides some medicinal benefits and it's great for recreational fun, as long as it's legal where you live. It also presents more side effects, some of which can be serious.
The intoxicating component also makes it less suited for daily use. Decreased functioning isn't something most people can get away with daily.
CBD Oil
CBD continues to grow in popularity and it's easy to understand why. It offers many amazing benefits And because CBD has no intoxicating properties, you can take CBD during the day and continue with your life. You can enjoy relief from stress, chronic pain, and inflammation without being high.
Conclusion
CBD and THC oil are both very popular options in the alternative medicine market.
THC is a good option for recreational users as long as it's legal where you live, whereas CBD oil with THC or without, provides intoxication free benefits.
CBD And THC Oil (FAQs)
Does CBD Make Your Eyes Red Like THC?
No, CBD won't make your eyes red like THC. THC lowers blood pressure and dilates blood vessels in the eyes, causing the signature red-eyed look.
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