Difference Between CBD and THC Edibles

CBD edibles are foods like gummies, brownies, and beverages enriched with cannabidiol oil, while THC ediblesare foods enriched with THC compounds. This article discusses the difference between CBD and THC  edibles, including their sources and effects on the body.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive and nutritious cannabinoid compound, while tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive and intoxicating cannabis molecule. CBD edibles are foods like gummies, brownies, and beverages enriched with cannabidiol oil, while THC edibles are foods enriched with THC compounds. These products are almost similar but have significant differences. Although both have beneficial nutrients, their working and effects vary. Inexperienced cannabis enthusiasts are overwhelmed when choosing these products. This guide outlines the clear differences between these compounds.

Differences Between CBD and THC Edibles

What Are CBD Edibles?

Astray et al. (2021)defined CBD edibles as eatable foods such as beverages, gummies, snacks, and brownies enriched with cannabidiol oil from hemp plants. These nourishments deliver an unbelievable nutritional experience to consumers. For instance, hemp oil comprises calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, proteins, magnesium, copper, and omega 3-fatty acids. The nutrients are incorporated into your desirable food or beverage. This increases the nutritional value of your food, guaranteeing more health benefits. These foods suit users seeking natural ingredients to boost their general body health wellness or counteract nutrition-related diseases.

The ediles have a moderate size that allows users to carry them in pockets. This enables users to continue with their daily cannabidiol dosage while on their regular duties.The discreteness, deliciousness, and affordability of these CBD edibles make them convenient for anyone seekingthe fastest means to reap hemp benefits. The sweet flavor masks freshly prepared hemp oil's bitter and earthy taste. This is an added advantage for customers who dislike strange hemp flavors. These products are available at cheap prices in both online and local stores.

What Are THC Edibles?

Lisi& BCGP (2022) defined THC edibles are foods like gums, drinks, gummies, and brownies infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) compounds. The producers incorporate this compound into foods to raise their nutritional value. However, THC is an intoxicating molecule known to cause euphoric and psychoactive effects. Therefore, THC-infused foods are mostly preferred by customers who tolerate such effects.

Since THC comes from Cannabis Sativa and contains low CBD amounts, consumers reap significant health benefits. For example, the plant comprises several nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, zinc, essential oils, and calcium. These ingredients improve the body's general wellness and counteract nutritional-related diseases. The only challenge is that certain customers dislike THC effects. Also, some of their resident states prohibit using and possessing marijuana-sourced products. Certain countries have authorized the usage of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Source and Legality

CBD Edibles

Cannabidiol comes from cannabis strains. The cannabis plant has two major variants: hemp and cannabis sativa (marijuana). Most cannabidiol edibles manufacturers source their CBD oil from hemp. This is because it consists of high CBD concentration but insignificant THC levels. Therefore, this compound is legal in most States throughout the United States. The 2018 Farm Bill endorsed hemp-sourced products' usage, manufacturing, possession, and farming. Yet, the federal policies only allowed products below 0.3 percent THC level. Most hemp products from reputable companies have insignificant THC concentrations. According to Huberfeld et al. (2013),federal and State laws are independent. However, legal CBD products are still illegal in certain States. research State laws governing the cannabis domain to avoid consequences.

THC Edibles

Tetrahydrocannabinol is derived from cannabis sativa (marijuana). This cannabis variety contains high THC concentrations and traces of CBD. Most producers focusing on tetrahydrocannabinol products get their THC oil from marijuana. Since it intoxicates consumers, most States have prohibited its usage, possession, farming, and manufacturing. The 2018 Farm Bill categorized products with more than 0.3% THC under Schedule 1 Substances. According to Barrus et al. (2016),THC edibles are illegal federally and at State levels. Therefore, consuming or traveling with THC edibles from one State to another is illegal at the federal level.

Working and Effects

CBD Edibles

Cannabidiol edibles are consumed orally by chewing them. After swallowing, the product enters your digestive system, gets metabolized into smaller pieces, and moves into the liver. The liver enzymes metabolize the product into fine particles that penetrate the bloodstream. As the blood circulates, the product reaches all body parts. The cannabinoid compound in the product interacts with the endocannabinoid system. This system contains the central and peripheral nervous systems. The systems constitute CB1 and CB2 receptors, respectively. Cannabidiol interacts with these receptors indirectly. Doing so causesthe endocannabinoid system to re-adjust. This system controls homeostasis (body balance), mood, sleep, appetite, pain, fertilization, and fertility. As the system re-adjusts, it deals with stressors such as pain, inflammation, and sleeplessness that interrupt normal body functioning. Cannabidiol has anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. These combinations rejuvenate consumers and make them feel more active.

THC Edibles

THC edibles are administered orally by chewing them. They follow a similar process as cannabidiol edibles until digestion is complete. While circulating in the bloodstream, the THC compound interacts with CB1 receptors directly. This interferes with normal body functioning. For example, it affects the brain by introducing high feelings into the consumer. The user experiences euphoric and psychoactive effects. THC turns the eyes red as the eye capillariesbroaden. However, the compound has medicinal properties improving body wellness.

Conclusion

Although certain customers assume THC and CBD are similar, the above research has outlined their main differences.Both products come from the cannabis family, although CBD is sourced from hemp while THC is from cannabis sativa. The federal laws legalized hemp-derived products but prohibited those sourced from marijuana. Therefore, cannabidiol edibles are legal in most American States, while tetrahydrocannabinol edibles are vice versa. Both have health benefits, but THC edibles cause eye reddening, euphoric, and psychoactive effects while the counterpart revitalizes your body with incredible benefits. You can choose the appropriate option providing the best results without causing undesirable effects.

References

Astray, Mejuto, Xiao, & Simal-Gandara (2021). Benefits, Toxicity, And Current Market Of Cannabidiol In Edibles. Critical Reviews In Food Science And Nutrition, 1-13.

Barrus, Capogrossi, Cates, Gourdet, Peiper, Novak, & Wiley (2016). Tasty THC: Promises And Challenges Of Cannabis Edibles. Methods Report (RTI Press), 2016.

Huberfeld, Leonard, &Outterson (2013). Plunging Into Endless Difficulties: Medicaid And Coercion In National Federation Of Independent Business V. Sebelius. BUL Rev., 93, 1.

Lisi& BCGP (2022). Cannabis Edibles And Pediatric Toxicity Risk. US Pharm, 47(9), 6-12.

Xin, Q., Xu, F., Taylor, D. H., Zhao, J. F., & Wu, J. (2020). The Impact Of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptors (CB2Rs) In Neuroprotection Against Neurological Disorders. Acta PharmacologicaSinica, 41(12), 1507-1518.