At Simply CBD, we carry the best selection of hemp-derived CBD products in New Orleans, all guaranteed to be 100% THC-free. What’s the difference between CBD and THC, and why is that important? Read on to learn more.
Why it’s important to get the full breakdown.
Today, we’re going to learn the ABCs of CBD and THC. And if you think that sounds like alphabet soup, well, you’re right. But the official names for CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) are even more of a mouthful. Don’t worry, though — understanding the differences between the two chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant is much simpler than pronouncing their names. Read on for the full breakdown of differences between CBD and THC.
THC Is Psychoactive; CBD Is Not
CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and both interact with the receptors in your brain. Both are safe to use and have potential health benefits. But that’s where the similarities end. Although they have the same molecular structure, there’s a very tiny difference in the way their oxygen atoms are arranged — and that arrangement makes a world of difference. THC binds directly with certain receptors, which creates a psychoactive effect. In other words, THC makes you feel high or stoned. For some people, that’s a good thing, but for other people, it’s an unpleasant side effect of the therapeutic cannabis plant.
By contrast, CBD is not able to bond directly with the receptors. CBD has powerful therapeutic effects that you can enjoy without the experience of altered consciousness. CBD’s presence can even undermine the bond that THC creates with the receptors — in essence, undoing the “high” sensation.
CBD users report that it helps them with health problems that range from insomnia and chronic pain to seizure disorders and withdrawal symptoms. In fact, last summer the FDA approved Epidiolex, the first CBD prescription medication.
THC gets you high. CBD does not.
CBD Is Legal; THC Is Not
Because of its powerful, mind-altering properties, THC is fully legal in only 10 states. By contrast, CBD derived from hemp plants is legal in most states, including Louisiana. Certain cannabis plants are bred to be high-CBD and low-THC. The average marijuana strain is around 12 percent THC. In order to be legal in our state, all CBD products must be 100% free of THC. You shouldn’t fail a drug test if you take hemp-derived CBD, but we can’t say the same for THC.
The Future of CBD and THC
You may notice that we distinguished between CBD derived from a hemp plant and CBD derived from a marijuana plant. Hemp-derived CBD oil is legal most places, but laws vary widely when it comes to marijuana-derived products. It’s important to know where your CBD comes from and be aware of Louisiana’s laws. At Simply CBD, we’re passionate about staying informed of the latest state regulations and peer-reviewed research, and educating users on all things CBD.
It is completely safe and legal to buy hemp-derived CBD oils, edibles, body products… And the list goes on! We’re proud to stock the highest-quality CBD products, including a number of organic CBD products, so stop by any of our CBD dispensaries across the greater New Orleans area.