Perhaps you've tried CBD or THC individually in the past, but have you ever considered combining them for a new experience? CBD and THC are two of the most studied compounds found in the cannabis plant and each has its own unique health benefits.
Most people use CBD alone or just THC but what they don’t know is that combining these two can provide more profound effects on your overall well being.
When looking for CBD products, ingredients and production quality should be your primary concerns. With FOCL, you can be certain that all products are made with premium Hemp CBD.
Let’s dive into the differences between CBD and THC, their potential benefits when taken together, and how you can maximize their combination for your overall health.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is a non-intoxicating compound that has been found to have a variety of therapeutic benefits.
It is derived from the hemp plant, which is a variety of the cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. That being said, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects that THC does.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes. Research suggests that CBD may be beneficial in treating a range of medical conditions, from anxiety and depression to chronic pain and inflammation.4
This particular cannabinoid is available in a variety of forms, including oils, edibles, capsules, and topicals. Each form has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so choose from FOCL products and find out which one best suits your needs.
What Is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC is the major psychoactive component and one of the cannabinoids found primarily in cannabis plants. It is responsible for the “high” that many people experience after using.
THC has many potential medical benefits, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, nausea reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects. It can also help reduce anxiety and depression, as well as improve sleep5.
THC works by binding to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which are responsible for regulating mood, appetite, and other functions. Although THC offers many health benefits, it can also have negative effects on you such as impaired coordination, increased heart rate, and confusion.
Having this said, you should always use THC responsibly and in moderation.
CBD Vs THC: Key Differences
Both CBD and THC are found in Cannabis sativa plants. Although they’re composed of similar chemical elements, their effects on your body widely vary so you should consider these differences before using either one:
Chemical Structure
For starters, chemical structure is the arrangement of atoms in a molecule and it plays an important role in understanding the different properties of CBD and THC.
Both CBD and THC contain 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms, but the way these elements are arranged is different. THC has a molecular structure that binds to the major receptors in the endocannabinoid system, CB1 and CB2, while CBD does not.
Psychoactive Properties
THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, meaning it produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD, on the other hand, does not have any psychoactive effects and is not intoxicating1.
Legality
The legality of CBD and THC is a complex and constantly evolving issue. While CBD is legal in many countries, the legal status of THC varies widely.
In the United States, the Farm Bill was signed into Law in December, 2018 removing hemp from the Controlled Substances Act. This made hemp and hemp derivatives legal federally as long as they contained less than 0.3% THC. It simply means that CBD is legal in all 50 states.2
Meanwhile, THC is a Schedule I controlled substance meaning it has no currently accepted medical use in the United States and is illegal for recreational use.8
But some states have passed legislation allowing for the use of medical marijuana and the sale of CBD products that contain trace amounts of THC.
Remember that the sale of CBD and THC products is still largely unregulated, so do your research before purchasing any CBD or THC products.
Drug Testing
When applying for a new job or enrolling in a new school, one of the most common requirements is a drug test. So, knowing how CBD and THC can affect drug testing results is important.
CBD is not typically detected in drug tests as it does not produce a positive result. THC, however, is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis and is the primary target of most drug tests. As such, consuming products that contain THC, even in small amounts, may cause a person to fail a drug test.
There are three types of CBD products: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate.
Full-spectrum products contain all of the compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC while broad-spectrum ones contain all of the compounds found in the plant, but without the THC and lastly, isolate products contain only the CBD compound and no other compounds7.
If you want to avoid failing a drug test, it is important only to purchase CBD products that are labeled as "THC-Free" or "Broad-Spectrum."
However, THC-free products may still contain trace amounts of THC, so it is beneficial to read the label and make sure a third-party laboratory tests the product.
Potential Side Effects
Some people may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or lightheadedness.
In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as confusion, anxiety, and changes in blood pressure. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop taking CBD and THC and seek medical attention immediately.
Both CBD and THC can interact with other medications. If you have a history of mental health issues, talk to your doctor before taking CBD or THC since it could worsen existing physical and mental health issues.
Potential Benefits
The combination of these two cannabinoids is thought to produce the so-called “entourage effect”, where the combined effects of both compounds are greater than the sum of their individual parts.
Research indicates that CBD and THC can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, and even certain types of cancer.
These compounds have also been studied for their ability to reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions.
Ingestion Methods
Depending on the desired effects and the user’s preference, one method may be better. Here is a quick overview of the most common ingestion methods:
Oral: This method is the most convenient and allows for precise dosing. It is usually in the form of a capsule, gummy, or tincture and takes about 30 minutes for the effects to kick in lasting for up to 8 hours.
Topical: In the form of a cream, balm, or lotion, you can apply CBD and THC topically. Topical applications are great for targeting specific areas of the body, such as muscle aches or joint pain and the effects can last up to 8 hours.
Looking for premium quality topical CBD? Check out FOCL Relief Cream and experience unmatched soothing effects today.
Edibles: What's a more enjoyable way to consume CBD and THC than simply eating it as regular food? Edibles come in various forms, such as gummies, chocolates, and baked goods. The effects of edibles can last up to 8 hours.
Whether you prefer topical applications or edible consumption of CBD and THC, FOCL has got your back. Choose from our wide range of premium CBD products and find the optimal ingesting method for your needs.
Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is an important concept to understand when considering the use of CBD and THC together. By combining these two cannabinoids, you can get the best of both worlds – CBD's therapeutic benefits and the positive psychoactive effects of THC.
The entourage effect is a phenomenon that occurs when cannabinoids, terpenes, and other molecules in the cannabis plant work together to create a stronger effect than any of the individual components.
So, when CBD and THC are consumed together, they can produce a more powerful, synergistic effect than either one alone.
Just a reminder that different ratios of CBD and THC will produce different effects, so it’s important to experiment and find the right combination for you.
How Are CBD And THC Similar?
Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of the main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Both have been studied extensively for their potential therapeutic benefits and used to treat various medical conditions.
One of the most notable similarities of CBD and THC is that they both interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate various bodily functions, such as mood, sleep, appetite, and pain.
CBD and THC bind to the ECS and can help promote balance in the body.
Both CBD and THC have anti-inflammatory properties alleviating pain and other symptoms associated with chronic inflammation.
Additionally, studies have shown that both compounds can help reduce the growth of certain types of cancer cells and reduce the spread of cancer. While more research is needed, these findings are promising for those looking for alternative treatments for cancer.6
Benefits Of Taking CBD And THC Together
Studies have found that when CBD and THC are combined, they can help reduce inflammation, pain, anxiety, depression, and even seizures. This is because both CBD and THC can interact with the endocannabinoid system to have more profound effects in modulating the body’s response to pain and stress. Consider trying delta 9 THC gummies for improved mood or other CBD products that include THC.
Combining CBD and THC can also help with insomnia; by doing so, the body can achieve a more relaxed state, thus improving sleep quality.
Does CBD Work Without THC?
While CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, is often used on its own, it can also be combined with THC, the cannabis’ psychoactive compound, to create a synergistic effect.
But does CBD work without THC? The answer is yes, but the effects may not be as strong as when CBD is taken with THC. Our customers often talk about the benefits of cbd gummies with low thc for pain.
When taken on its own, CBD is still potentially beneficial and may provide relief from a variety of conditions such as reducing inflammation, anxious feelings, as well as improving sleep quality.
Take note that not all CBD products contain THC. Some products are made with CBD isolate, meaning it does not contain any other cannabinoids or terpenes. These products can still be beneficial, but the effects may not be as strong as those seen when CBD is taken with THC.
Final Thoughts
Combining CBD and THC produces a synergistic effect known as the “entourage effect,” where the combined effects of both compounds are greater than the sum of their individual parts, which can be a powerful tool for improving your overall wellness.
Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation, improve mood, or just relax, CBD and THC can be a great way to get the results you’re looking for. With the right combination, you can achieve amazing physical and mental health results.
Consult with your doctor before taking any form of CBD or THC, and always follow the recommended dosage guidelines.
Keep yourself updated with the latest information about THC. Unlock the true potential of CBD with FOCL premium CBD products and boost your overall well-being.
Want to know more about CBD and THC? Check out our latest blogs:
FAQs
What drugs should not be taken with CBD?
Taking any medications or drugs with CBD without consulting your healthcare provider first is not recommended. This is because CBD can interact with certain medications, including those metabolized by the liver, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and some anti-seizure medications.
Additionally, CBD can interact with certain supplements, such as St. John’s Wort, and can cause side effects if taken with certain drugs, such as benzodiazepines.
Should I use CBD oil with THC or without?
If you are looking for therapeutic benefits, using a full-spectrum CBD oil that contains both CBD and THC may be more beneficial than using a CBD oil that is THC-free. The combination of these two cannabinoids is thought to produce an “entourage effect” that provides enhanced therapeutic benefits.
However, if you are concerned about the psychoactive effects of THC or drug testing, you may want to opt for a CBD oil that is THC-free.
What ratio of THC to CBD is best?
Generally speaking, a ratio of 1:1 (THC to CBD) is thought to be the most effective for therapeutic benefits. However, it is important to note that this ratio may not be ideal for everyone, so it is best to experiment with different ratios to find the one that works best for you.
What happens if you take THC and CBD together?
Taking THC and CBD together is thought to produce an “entourage effect” that provides enhanced therapeutic benefits. This is because the two cannabinoids work together to produce a synergistic effect that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Additionally, taking THC and CBD together can help to reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, making it more tolerable for those who are sensitive to its effects.
Does CBD and THC help with mental health?
CBD has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, while THC has been studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of stress, depression, and insomnia. However, more research is needed to determine the full extent of the potential benefits of these two cannabinoids for mental health.
How many mg of CBD for relaxation?
Generally speaking, a dose of 10-30 mg of CBD is recommended for relaxation. However, it is important to note that everyone is different, so it may be necessary to experiment with different doses to find the one that works best for you.
Sources:
- Atakan, Z. (2012, December). Cannabis, a complex plant: Different compounds and different effects on individuals. Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology.
- Commissioner, O. of the. (n.d.). FDA regulation of cannabis and cannabis-derived products: Q&A. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- Fontaine, D., & Fletcher, J. (2023, January 23). A comparison of Cbd and Thc. Medical News Today.
- Grinspoon, P. (2021, September 24). Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don't. Harvard Health.
- Ng, T., & Gupta, V. (n.d.). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). National Center for Biotechnology Information.
- Ramer & Hinz. Cannabinoids as anticancer drugs. Cannabinoid Pharmacol., 2017, 80, 397–436.
- Spar, M. (2023, March 23). What to know about the types of CBD. Forbes.
- US Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. (n.d.). Controlled Substance Schedules. Controlled substance schedules.
