Know Your CannaTerms: Cannabinoid, THC, and CBD
Whether you’re interested in cannabis as a consumer or an entrepreneur, the vast terminology surrounding the plant can be overwhelming. In this article, we will give you a quick rundown on the must-know cannabis terms. The first we’ll tackle is a cannabinoid, more specifically, THC and CBD.
Cannabinoid
What is a cannabinoid? Simply put, a cannabinoid is a chemical compound within the cannabis plant that interacts with the body to produce effects that are often therapeutic and medically beneficial. These chemical compounds fit into receptors within the body’s endocannabinoid system, similar to a key fitting into a lock. There are over 100 cannabinoids that we know of, all with unique properties and benefits. The two most commonly known cannabinoids are THC and CBD. There are some major differences between the two, including how they affect the body.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the cannabinoid that is most associated with producing psychoactive effects and therapeutic benefits. This cannabinoid is often attributed to the component of cannabis that has the ability to make the consumer feel “high” or euphoric. THC can affect one’s mood, behavior, and perception. Consumers often note that THC can produce a pain-relieving effect, increase appetite, and an overall feeling of well-being. For some, THC has the potential to cause feelings of anxiety or paranoia. THC is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Previously, the majority of commercial cannabis contained very high levels of THC to appeal to those pursuing psychoactive effects. However, consumers and patients are starting to pay more attention to strains with a strong presence and fuller spectrum of other cannabinoids, including CBD.
CBD
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is also a well-known cannabinoid. It’s most associated with producing non-psychoactive, therapeutic, medicinal benefits. Similar to THC, CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties, among other medicinal uses. This cannabinoid has the potential to end epileptic seizures and can treat those with serious neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. CBD also has pain-relieving properties. Some patients who use cannabis for medicinal purposes specifically pursue strains that primarily contain CBD or even products that contain no THC at all. This way, they can experience the medicinal benefits of cannabis without feeling psychoactive effects.
How Point7 Can Help
Point7 is all about making the oftentimes overwhelming cannabis industry more approachable. So whether you’re looking to open your own dispensary, you’re pursuing cannabis for medical purposes, or you want to do some research – we hope you feel a bit more informed when you see the increasingly ubiquitous terms cannabinoid, THC, and CBD. At Point7, we help our clients by providing expert insight into the industry and serving as support in every aspect of the business. If you want to expand your cannabis enterprise, reach out to us.