As the legal use of CBD and marijuana grows throughout the United States, you might be curious about your options. There is a lot of confusion surrounding the differences between CBD and marijuana. You might be wondering, “are CBD and marijuana the same thing?” In this article, we will discuss whether or not CBD and marijuana are the same thing, specifically focusing on the similarities and differences between CBD and THC. We will also cover what a hemp plant is, and everything else you need to know about CBD and marijuana so you can make an informed decision about what you are putting into your body. At Naked Roots, we believe that it is important to educate yourself on CBD and its many benefits.
Are CBD and Marijuana the Same Thing?
If you thought CBD and marijuana are the same thing, you’re not alone. However, that is not the case. While marijuana and CBD are related, they are different in some pretty significant ways.
Both THC and CBD are natural compounds derived from the same plant: cannabis Sativa. THC and CBD are both in marijuana and hemp. Hemp plants and marijuana are both the same species. But just like chihuahuas and English mastiffs are the same species, CBD and marijuana are still very different.
Though CBD and marijuana are part of the same family, they have different chemistry and characteristics. So, no, though they are part of the same “family,” CBD and marijuana are not the same thing. Each has very different effects on your body.
CBD vs THC: What You Need to Know
Cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol are two of many different cannabinoids present in marijuana. THC and CBD also interact in the body with cannabinoid receptors to help treat or limit the effects of various conditions. While cannabis and THC might have a lot in common, there are some key differences in how they are used.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical found in marijuana. CBD allows you to harness the power of the marijuana plant, without any of the psychoactive effects of THC. This means you can enjoy CBD at any time of day (or even throughout the day!) without worrying about getting high.
What is THC?
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. It’s what makes people feel “high.”
Similarities Between CBD and THC
CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in marijuana and hemp. Both CBD and THC interact with cannabinoid receptors in our bodies to help support overall health and well-being, and even possibly to aid the treatment of and limit the effects of various conditions.
Differences Between CBD and THC
There are several main differences between CBD and THC:
CBD vs THC: Psychoactive Effects
The main difference between CBD and THC is that THC will cause a person to experience a high, while CBD does not make a person high. Despite the fact that both CBD and THC are cannabinoids, they interact with slightly different receptors in our brains. That is why THC results in a high, and CBD does not.
CBD vs THC: Legality
There are also legal differences between CBD and THC. While many states in the U.S have approved of people having some limited use of medical marijuana, and others have legalized the use of marijuana altogether, each state varies slightly in how they define and regulate the use and sale of marijuana. On the other hand, CBD is legal in all 50 states, though to varying degrees.
CBD vs THC: Benefits
Both THC and CBD can support overall health. It is possible that both CBD and THC can provide relief from several different medical conditions. Studies have shown the therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. CBD has even been shown to aid weight loss. At Naked Roots, our premium CBD tinctures are intended to:
- Manage signs of daily stress
- Provide a sense of calm
- Promote restful sleep
- Complement a healthy wellness routine
- Offer relief from muscle aches and stiff joints
- Enhance exercise recovery
THC vs CBD: Side Effects
CBD is extremely safe and is tolerated well, even in large doses. THC can cause more side effects, like increased heart rate, coordination issues, dry mouth, red eyes, slower reaction times, anxiety, and memory loss.
CBD vs THC: Chemical Structure
Interestingly, CBD and THC have the exact same molecular structure. Both have two oxygen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and 30 hydrogen atoms. However, there is a slight difference in how the atoms are arranged, which accounts for the different effects that each has on your body.
CBD vs THC: Drug Testing
Most standard drug tests will not detect CBD. However, almost all drug tests will detect THC.
What is the Hemp Plant?
The hemp plant is a specific variety of C. Sativa. The 2018 Farm Bill considers C. Sativa plants with less than 0.3 percent THC as hemp or industrial hemp. Unlike cannabis, the hemp plant contains low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (aka THC). The hemp plant is what is used to make many CBD products. For example, broad-spectrum hemp extract is an ingredient in many of our Naked Roots CBD products.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a mixture of the dried flowers of Cannabis sativa. Typically, marijuana is smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes or pipes. It can also be used to brew tea or mixed into foods called edibles. However, marijuana contains THC, which is a psychoactive chemical. Marijuana is also illegal in many states throughout the U.S.
Are CBD and Marijuana the Same Thing?
Now, you know that CBD and marijuana are not the same thing. You are able to completely legally enjoy your CBD without risking the high of marijuana, yet get the rest of the benefits that cannabis can offer. If you are looking to begin your CBD journey, explore our line of Naked Roots CBD products. We offer everything you need, from our Organic Tranquil Mint Broad Spectrum Tincture to Organic Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels, Organic CBD Sports Cream, and even Premium CBD Bath Bombs. Naked Roots CBD allows you to experience the natural benefits of CBD. Our premium products are made with organic ingredients. At Naked Roots CBD, we will always deliver Premium Grade CBD products that are ROOTED in Quality, Trust, and Transparency.
