Although lots have been written about the two, it is always important to keep oneself updated. Understanding CBD vs THC vape is critical to knowing what makes CBD products like CBD oil or flavoured CBD vape safer than weed or marijuana.
Both the CBD and THC are used in medicine. However, most health harms, addiction, and euphoria are caused by THC. Thus, any cannabis extract free of THC and related compounds such as CBD Vape pens are relatively safe for regular use and does not cause a high.
Every cannabis plant contains hundreds of chemically related bioactive compounds called cannabinoids. They are called cannabinoids as they bind to cannabinoid receptors in the human body.[1]
The human body has different kinds of cannabinoid receptors present in different body parts. Thus, some are more abundant in the brain, while others are in different organs. Various cannabinoids bind differently to these different cannabinoid receptors in the body. Thus, some bind strongly to brain receptors, others to receptors present in various body organs. This explains why various cannabinoids act differently, and some modulate the brain’s working while others do not.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most abundant cannabinoid found in various species of cannabis plants. Many health benefits of the cannabis plant are due to its CBD content, and that is why this specific cannabinoid is so popular.
THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is also a kind of cannabinoid that acts especially on cannabinoid receptors in the brain. It causes euphoria or a high and addiction, modulates appetite, boosts immunity, reduces pain sensation, and is also good for reducing epileptic seizures.[2]
So, as one can see, THC is both good and bad. Thus, unlike other cannabinoids, one should be careful using THC. That is why food supplements or commonly sold CBD oils or Full spectrum CBD vape cartridge only have tiny amounts of THC.
THC, when present in small amounts in CBD oil, can also contribute to the entourage effect. Thus, CBD oils containing THC in minute quantities are quite potent. In smaller amounts, THC does not cause severe side effects or a high and yet contributes to CBD oil’s health effects.
So, as one can understand, most safety concerns regarding cannabis use are due to its THC content. THC is high in marijuana, which explains its specific actions on the brain. Hence, THC content in various products is tightly controlled.
Fortunately, some cannabis varieties, like legally grown hemp, are naturally low in THC. Thus, most hemp cultivated in the UK has THC levels below 0.2%. Studies suggest that hemp extract containing THC below these levels is relatively safe.[3] Hence, CBD oil mainly contains hemp extract.
Finally, it is also worthwhile to understand that some CBD products may have slightly higher THC concentrations. This is because, apart from finished products, the legal THC limit Is 1mg per container (bottle or vape cartridge).[3]
CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, but they act very differently on the human body and brain. THC is the primary psychoactive substance in the cannabis plant. Though THC causes euphoria and is addictive, it also has some incredible health benefits when used responsibly and in minute amounts. CBD, on the other hand, is good for regular use at relatively high dosages. Thus, most CBD products are rich in CBD, and full-spectrum CBD oils or vapes also contain THC in smaller amounts for added health effects. However, THC content in these products is within the legal and safe limits.
This article was authored by:Â Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
Disclaimer: All of our products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is recommended to check with doctor before starting a new dietary supplement program. All CBD products sold have less than 0.2% THC content and abide by both EU an UK law.