The Difference Between CBD Hemp Extract and Marijuana

For those new to CBD, a lot of questions may arise about its effects and uses. Many people seem to think that CBD might be the same as marijuana or cannabis and may produce the same kind of “high” or intoxication. Although CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, it has its own unique set of properties that are separate from that of marijuana. The difference comes down to compound known as THC. Here is a quick guide to clarify the difference between THC, the primary psychoactive compound of marijuana, and CBD extracted from the Hemp plants.

 

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are a set of natural compounds that take part in the endocannabinoid system of the human body. Although the body produces its own cannabinoids, other compounds extracted from the plant and natural sources can interact with the endocannabinoid system in much the same way as the natural cannabinoids of the body. This endocannabinoid system is spread through the entire body as contains receptors in most of the organs such as the brain, the skin etc.

When cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system, they produce an effect called the entourage effect all over the body. This phenomenon is linked to the balancing effect of cannabinoids on the body, but different cannabinoid can have different properties.

 

What is THC?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound that produces the intoxicating effects of marijuana. This is the compound that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in such a way that it creates a noticeable mental and physical impact on the body. The content of THC may vary across different species of the cannabis plant, and the structure of THC is similar to that of CBD with some minor differences that completely change its properties.

THC is a significant part of marijuana and produces the "high" feeling and physical and psychoactive effects that most people associate with the recreational use of marijuana. It is, in fact, quite different from CBD as you will learn below.

 

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the 113 different types of cannabinoids present in the marijuana plant. It is a compound that is mostly similar to THC in composition but produces completely different effects as compared to THC. Firstly, CBD does not produce any of the intoxicating and psychoactive effects that people associate with marijuana. As CBD is entirely different from THC, it carries all the beneficial properties of the hemp plant without having the same mental or physically intoxicating effects as marijuana.

CBD is a natural isolate that can be present up to 40% in the hemp plant but may be lower in concentration in the cannabis plant. Although they belong to the same species, they have a few key differences in their composition, as you will see below.

 

The Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis

Cannabis is an umbrella term that is used to cover all the species of the cannabis genus. There are several varieties of the plant, each having their specific uses and properties. Hemp is one variant of the species that is characterised by a higher content of CBD as compared to THC. This means that it contains fewer amounts of the psychoactive compound while carrying more of the beneficial CBD.

Marijuana is that variant of the cannabis plant that contains considerably more copious amounts of THC as compared to CBD. This means that it produces more potent psychoactive effects in the body, which may not be tolerable by many individuals.

Furthermore, the hemp plant is treated as a natural medicinal plant while the marijuana plant may be legally regulated in some countries and places. The CBD derived from the Hemp plant is well-known for its entourage effect that it produces within the body.

 

What Is The Entourage Effect?

The entourage effect or the ensemble effect is the name given to the beneficial properties of CBD extract that produces desirable results in the body by working together with the endocannabinoid system. The natural CBD extract interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors scattered across the body and creates an environment of balance, equilibrium and harmony. The endocannabinoid system makes sure that all organs and systems of the body work naturally in their standard states in stability and balance with each other. The entourage effect of CBD makes it desirable to use as a part of diet through food supplements and consumables and even as topical agents in the form of creams, lotions, soaps and balms.

 

How Can I Buy CBD products online?

Finding quality CBD Hemp extract products online can be difficult because most suppliers are unable to ensure their blends are of quality. If looking for CBD products online, it is best to select a provider that is trusted by many consumers around the world and has a strong presence online and in industry. Elixinol produces a wide variety of products containing CBD Hemp extracts which are full-spectrum, herbal, vegan-friendly and high quality. The Elixinol catalogue provides many formulations and a range of products and is well-equipped to meet your requirements in every way and every shape. You can make a visit to the Elixinol Online Shop for a look at some excellent CBD Hemp extract goods .