What is the difference between THC and CBD?
THC
The most researched cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is responsible for the way your brain and body respond to cannabis, including the high and intoxication. THC has some therapeutic effects but it also has harmful effects. Harmful effects may be greater when the strength of THC is higher. The potency (concentration or strength) of THC in cannabis is often shown as a percentage of THC by weight (or by volume of an oil). THC potency in dried cannabis has increased from an average of 3% in the 1980s to around 15% today. Some strains can have an average as high as 30% THC. Cannabis that contains very low amounts of THC in its flowers and leaves (less than 0.3%) is classified as hemp.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is another cannabinoid. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a high or intoxication. There is some evidence that CBD may block or lower some of the effects of THC on the mind. This may occur when the amount of CBD in the cannabis is the same or higher than the amount of THC. CBD is also being studied for its possible therapeutic uses.
What are the different forms of Cannabis?
- Fresh or dried herbal material which consist of flowers or leaves from the cannabis plant
- Cannabis Oil which is cannabis extract dissolved in oil and can be used to make other forms, such as edibles
- Chemically concentrated extracts which contain highly concentrated cannabis extract dissolved in petroleum-based solvent, such as shatter, budder, and wax
- Physically concentrated extracts which are loose trichomes or pressed resin from the cannabis plant, such as hash or kief
- Edibles, foods and drinks containing extracts of cannabis
- Tinctures/Sprays and these are cannabis extract dissolved in a solvent, often alcohol which can be used to make other products as well, such as edibles
- Creams/Salves/Liniments which involve cannabis extract preparation prepared with alcohol, oil or was and are then applied to the skin
Do I need to “get high” to experience the benefits of cannabis?
There are many aspects of cannabis that are non-psychoactive. The reason we get “high” is because our bodies have an endocannabinoid system which is made up of receptors in the brain and nervous system that control physiological processes which include functions such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and memory. While the cannabis plant has 113 cannabinoids known to date, the only cannabinoid that has psychoactive effects is THC. CBD, for example, can treat a variety of ailments including inflammation, anxiety, pain, and even epilepsy. CBD can also be used to calm down a THC “high”. Long story short, you definitely do not need to get “high” to enjoy the insurmountable benefits of cannabis.
Is it healthy to try cannabis even if I’m not sick?
Cannabis has many health benefits regardless of whether or not you have an illness. Even though you’re healthy, you can always feel better and this is a safe and natural way to do so. Cannabis can provide balance when you’re feeling stressed, anxious, upset, or simply not your best. It can also treat many subtle physical ailments that can appear suddenly such as upset stomach or fatigue.
Where do I start?
If you don’t have a major medical issue, you may simply want to relieve stress or anxiety or just enjoy yourself. A vaporizer or tincture is a lighter way to enjoy your cannabis and allow yourself to micro-dose so you can feel the immediate effects and attain your perfect state of being. Take one deep breath and then wait five minutes and see how you feel before you take another breath while noticing the subtle changes in your mind and body’s relaxation.
What parts of the plant are used?
The flowering tops, or buds of the female cannabis plant have the highest concentrations of THC, followed by the leaves. Much lower THC levels are found in the stalks and seeds of the cannabis plant.
What is the recommended dosage for edibles?
Typically edibles are 10 mg, however, they may come in a variety of doses so it is important to check the package and adjust how much you are going to eat accordingly. All packages of edibles will have information so you know exactly how much THC is in the product and will usually give you directions for consumption.
How can cannabis improve a person’s sex life?
Cannabis can be a powerful aphrodisiac as it can heighten emotional and physical sensitivity, improve stamina and creativity, and lead to sensory overload. Cannabis can intensify your feelings of closeness and even vastly increase the number, length, and intensity of your orgasms. Depending upon the strain and the person, cannabis will improve your sex life in various ways. Indica-dominant strains can be relaxing and increase your sensitivity to touch, while sativa-dominant strains increase arousal, creativity, and passion.