Cannabis And Human Rights: Breaking The Stigma Of Holistic Healing

For centuries, cannabis has faced vilification, bans, and misinformation. Today, however, the conversation is shifting. Access to cannabis is more than a legal debate; it's a human rights issue. From health and autonomy to social justice and wellness equity, cannabis legalization is about breaking barriers and building a fairer future. Let's explore why denying access to this natural medicine is a fundamental violation of human rights.

The Right to Health and Autonomy

Health is a universal human right, as outlined in global frameworks like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This means individuals should have access to treatments and therapies that enhance well-being. Cannabis has been shown to offer relief for various conditions—from chronic pain and epilepsy to PTSD and anxiety. Yet, restrictive laws in many regions prevent people from choosing cannabis as a treatment option. This isn't just about medicine; it's about personal autonomy. People should have the right to make informed decisions about their own health. For those who find relief in cannabis when conventional treatments fail, prohibition forces them into unnecessary suffering. Restricting access is not only outdated; it's unjust.

Legal Barriers: Who Gets Left Behind?

In many places, legal barriers to cannabis access aren't based on science but on decades-old stigmas and misinformation. Patients in restrictive regions often turn to unregulated sources, exposing them to unsafe products. Meanwhile, wealthier individuals can afford to travel for legal access, creating a two-tiered system where privilege dictates who gets relief.

Even in legal markets, affordability remains a major issue. Medical cannabis can be costly, and many insurance providers don't cover it. For those relying on cannabis to manage chronic conditions, financial barriers can mean choosing between health and other basic needs. True cannabis equity means not just legalization but policies that ensure affordability and accessibility for all.

Cannabis and Social Justice: "Righting" the Wrongs of Prohibition

For decades, cannabis prohibition disproportionately harmed marginalized communities. Millions of people—often from lower-income or minority backgrounds—were arrested for possession, leading to cycles of poverty, restricted job opportunities, and systemic discrimination. Legalizing cannabis is a step toward justice, but it must go beyond just permitting sales. Expunging past cannabis-related convictions, providing business opportunities to those impacted by prohibition, and reinvesting in affected communities are essential. A legal cannabis industry that doesn't address these historical injustices would be failing the very people who suffered the most.

The Current Global Perspective

While some nations like Canada, Uruguay, and parts of the U.S. have embraced cannabis legalization, others still enforce strict bans. Patients in restrictive countries are left with few options—navigating underground markets or suffering without relief.

However, advocacy groups worldwide are working to change this. By fighting for fair cannabis policies, they aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of location, has the right to access this natural medicine. Education plays a huge role in breaking down stigma, empowering individuals to make informed choices, and pushing governments to embrace evidence-based policies.

Cannabis 101

Education is key to breaking the stigma around cannabis! Misinformation breeds fear, but when people have the facts, they can make informed, responsible choices. THC provides a high, while CBD offers calming and anti-inflammatory benefits. Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, helping regulate mood, pain, and appetite, which is why it's used for conditions like chronic pain and epilepsy. Like alcohol or medication, moderation is essential—know the laws, avoid driving under the influence, and choose quality products. For younger generations, open, honest conversations are crucial to combat misinformation and help them make smart decisions. Whether for wellness, medicine, or recreation, let's embrace the facts and approach cannabis with knowledge and responsibility.

Conclusion

Cannabis legalization is about more than profits and regulations—it's about health, justice, and dignity. Restricting access denies people their right to wellness and perpetuates social inequalities. But as public perception shifts and more countries embrace change, the hope for a world where cannabis is recognized as a fundamental health and human rights issue is stronger than ever. Are you ready to be part of the change?

References

1. Terpene Journey. (n.d.) Cannabis activism around the world. Available at: https://www.terpenejourney.com/posts/cannabis-activism-around-the-world (Accessed: 10 March 2025).

2. My7Engines (n.d.) The right to choose: cannabis, health, and human rights. Available at: https://my7engines.com/blog/the-right-to-choose-cannabis-health-and-human-rights/ (Accessed: 10 March 2025).

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

A Natural Path to Balance: The Role of Medicinal Mushrooms and Cannabis in Women's Health

“She walks in beauty, like the night. Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that's best of dark and bright.” In these lines, Lord Byron beautifully captures the balance in femininity – light and darkness, passion and peace.

Many women are now embracing natural, holistic solutions to maintain balance and well-being, seeking alternatives that harmonize with their bodies. One increasingly popular approach is integrating medicinal mushrooms and cannabis into daily life, blending traditional wisdom with modern science. This blog delves into how these natural allies can support women's health, offering insights into their benefits, practical applications, and tips for achieving a balanced lifestyle.

The Wisdom of Nature: Why Choose a Natural Path?

Modern life often pushes us toward quick fixes, but many women are rediscovering the nurturing power of nature. Choosing a natural path means prioritizing whole-food nutrition, mindfulness, and botanical (and fungal) remedies that work in harmony with your body's natural rhythms. This approach:

• Supports Holistic Well-being: Natural methods focus on nurturing every aspect of health – physical, emotional, and spiritual.

• Minimizes Side Effects: Using ingredients with centuries of traditional use often results in fewer side effects compared to synthetic alternatives.

• Empowers Self-Care: Embracing a natural path encourages self-awareness and mindful choices, fostering a deeper connection with your body.

Spotlight on Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms have been a cornerstone of traditional medicine in various cultures for thousands of years. Modern research is beginning to validate many of these ancient practices, making mushrooms an exciting natural ally in women's health. Here are some key species and their benefits:

• Reishi: The "Queen of Mushrooms"

  • Stress Reduction: Known for its adaptogenic properties, reishi helps the body adapt to stress, potentially easing anxiety symptoms.

  • Immune Support: Its powerful antioxidants support immune function, crucial during hormonal fluctuations.

  • Hormonal Balance: By modulating the stress response, reishi indirectly supports hormonal balance, a common concern for many women.

• Chaga: The Antioxidant Powerhouse

  • Cellular Protection: Chaga is rich in antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress – a factor in aging and inflammation.

  • Digestive Health: Its anti-inflammatory properties may soothe digestive discomfort, benefiting women with IBS or other gut issues.

  • Skin Health: Some women notice improvements in skin vitality, likely due to the mushroom's ability to reduce systemic inflammation.

• Cordyceps: Enhancing Energy and Endurance

  • Boosting Energy: Cordyceps improves oxygen uptake and enhances energy levels, making it a favorite among women with busy lifestyles.

  • Supporting Metabolism: By improving stamina and reducing fatigue, cordyceps helps maintain a balanced metabolism, supporting overall health.

  • Menstrual Health: Some women report relief from premenstrual symptoms thanks to cordyceps' ability to stabilize energy and mood swings.

• Lion's Mane: Nurturing the Mind

  • Cognitive Support: Lion's mane is linked to improved cognitive function, helping clear mental fog and enhance focus.

  • Mood Enhancement: The mushroom's neuroprotective properties may support mood regulation, beneficial during hormonal transitions.

  • Nerve Health: Emerging research suggests lion's mane may play a role in nerve regeneration, an exciting prospect for long-term brain health.

The Role of Cannabis in Women's Health

As holistic wellness conversations evolve, cannabis is emerging as a powerful plant ally for women's health. With compounds like CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, cannabis offers a range of potential benefits:

1. Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Relief

   • Easing PMS and Cramps: CBD and THC have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may alleviate period pain and discomfort.

   • Mood Regulation: Cannabis may help stabilize mood swings by interacting with serotonin receptors.

   • Supporting Endometriosis Relief: Many women with endometriosis find cannabis beneficial for pain management and inflammation control.

2. Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Support

   • CBD for Anxiety Relief: Non-psychoactive and known for its calming effects, CBD may help manage anxiety and stress.

   • THC for Sleep: Small doses of THC may promote relaxation and deeper sleep, useful for women experiencing insomnia or menopause-related sleep disturbances.

3. Skin and Anti-Aging Benefits

   • CBD for Inflammation: CBD is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce acne, redness, and signs of aging.

   • Hydration and Repair: Hemp-derived skincare products are gaining popularity for their ability to nourish and soothe the skin.

4. Sexual Health and Wellness

   • CBD Lubricants: Many women report enhanced pleasure and reduced discomfort during intimacy when using CBD-infused lubricants.

   • Stress-Free Intimacy: THC's relaxing properties may help those experiencing anxiety-related sexual tension.

Integrating Medicinal Mushrooms and Cannabis into Your Daily Routine

Embracing a natural path doesn't require drastic changes – minor, mindful adjustments can make a big difference. Here are some practical ways to incorporate medicinal mushrooms into your life:

1. Supplements and Tinctures

   • Mushroom Powders: Powdered mushrooms can be mixed into smoothies, teas, or even your morning oatmeal for daily immune and brain support.

   • CBD Oils and Capsules: Available in various strengths, these can help with stress, pain, and sleep.

2. Culinary Infusions

   • Mushroom-Infused Recipes: Experiment with recipes that include dried or fresh medicinal mushrooms. Adding them to soups, stews, or risotto can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

   • Modern Adaptations: Many chefs are now crafting innovative dishes that celebrate the umami taste and health benefits of medicinal mushrooms.

   • Cannabis-Infused Teas: Many herbal blends now incorporate hemp or CBD for relaxation.

3. Mindful Practices

   • Routine Integration: Pairing your mushroom and/or cannabis regimen with mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can amplify their stress-relieving effects.

   • Self-Care Rituals: A cannabis-infused bath paired with a Reishi tea makes for the ultimate wind-down experience.

   • Holistic Lifestyle: Consider adopting other natural habits – such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep – to complement the benefits of medicinal mushrooms.

A Word of Caution: Personalized Approaches Matter

While medicinal mushrooms and cannabis offer promising benefits, it's important to remember that everyone's body is unique. Consulting with a healthcare provider, particularly one knowledgeable about herbal and fungal therapies, can help tailor a natural approach that meets your specific needs. Consider factors such as existing health conditions, medications, and personal wellness goals when integrating these supplements into your routine. Start low and go slow when using cannabis to gauge individual tolerance. Ensure product quality by sourcing from reputable brands offering lab-tested results.

Final Thoughts: Nature as a Guide

The journey toward balance is deeply personal, and medicinal mushrooms and cannabis represent powerful, natural tools to support women's health. By embracing the wisdom of traditional medicine and modern research, you can cultivate a holistic approach that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're looking to manage stress, enhance energy, or support hormonal balance, the natural world offers a wealth of solutions.

Explore. Experiment. Embrace balance. Let nature be your guide to a healthier, more vibrant life.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Beauty from the inside out: CBD and hemp in skin care

Ladies, what if we told you the key to radiant, youthful skin wasn’t hidden in an expensive jar but in the natural power of hemp and CBD? That’s right—CBD and hemp seed oil are a match made in skincare heaven, working to detoxify, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin. If these amazing ingredients aren’t already part of your beauty routine, now’s the perfect time to join the movement! Here’s why your skin will thank you for embracing CBD-infused products.

Say Goodbye to Breakouts!

Sick of dealing with unexpected breakouts? CBD-infused skincare could be the solution you’ve been searching for! With its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD helps calm redness, reduce irritation, and balance sebum levels—preventing clogged pores. Incorporating CBD cleansers and toners into your regimen can help control oil production, leaving your skin clear, fresh, and blemish-free.

Combat the Signs of Aging

Looking to keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay? CBD and hemp seed oils are loaded with antioxidants, shielding your skin from free radicals and pollution while promoting collagen production. CBD-infused facial oils or eye serums can tighten delicate skin, reduce puffiness, and illuminate dark circles. Additionally, hemp seed oil enhances elasticity and restores that youthful glow, keeping your complexion vibrant.

Soothing and Smoothing

If you’re managing skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis, CBD-infused skincare can work wonders. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties calm flare-ups, ease redness, and leave your skin smoother than ever. Incorporating a CBD serum or balm into your routine can bring balance to sensitive or reactive skin, helping you achieve a calm, even complexion.

Hydration is Key

Dealing with dryness or flakiness? CBD and hemp seed oils are rich in omega fatty acids and nutrients that fortify the skin barrier and lock in moisture. CBD-based moisturizers or serums deliver intense hydration, improving elasticity while relieving dryness. Research also highlights CBD’s benefits for persistent conditions like eczema and psoriasis, making it a game-changer for combating dehydrated skin.

A Luxurious Cleanse

Transform your daily shower into a pampering ritual with CBD-infused body washes. Infused with nourishing elements like coconut oil and shea butter, these products cleanse, hydrate, and ease inflammation. Using a CBD body wash will not only improve skin elasticity but leave your skin silky, refreshed, and deeply hydrated.

Treat Your Lips

Struggling with chapped lips? CBD-infused lip balms, enriched with nourishing hemp and coconut oil, deliver deep hydration and protection. Not only do they keep your lips soft and supple, but they also double as a remedy for dry patches or insect bites. Keep one handy for a quick touch-up anytime and enjoy irresistibly smooth lips!

Final Thoughts

CBD-infused skincare is more than just a passing trend—it’s a natural and effective way to enhance your skin’s health and radiance. Whether you’re fighting breakouts, dryness, or visible aging, these powerhouse ingredients are here to help. Ready to elevate your skincare game? Show your skin some love with CBD and hemp seed oil today!

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. Always consult a healthcare professional with any concerns about medical conditions or skincare objectives.

Detoxing the Mind: Celebrating Women's Health with Cannabis, Magic Mushrooms and Holistic Wellness

Women's health is often viewed through the lens of physical well-being – nutrition, exercise, and medical care. However, true wellness also encompasses a clear and balanced mind. In our fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and burnout can take a toll, making mental detox just as essential as a body cleanse.

While cannabis and magic mushrooms (psilocybin) are gaining recognition for their mental health benefits, other holistic practices also support emotional resilience and overall well-being. Whether you are interested in plant medicine or seeking alternative ways to restore balance, this guide explores powerful natural tools for detoxing the mind and reclaiming your mental health.

The Mental Load Women Carry

Women often juggle multiple roles – professionals, caregivers, partners, and leaders – internalizing stress while pushing forward. Chronic stress can lead to:

• Anxiety and depression

• Sleep disturbances

• Hormonal imbalances

• Burnout and emotional exhaustion

Detoxing the mind is not just about reducing stress; it's about shifting into a state of balance, where emotional well-being and self-care become priorities.

Cannabis: A Natural Ally For Mental Detox

Cannabis has been used for centuries as a healing plant, and modern science is now validating its benefits for mental health.

• CBD for Stress and Anxiety Relief: Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to promote relaxation, alleviate anxiety, and enhance sleep. It is an excellent option for women seeking relief without experiencing a high.

• THC for Emotional Release and Creativity: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component, can help release emotional blockages, enhance creativity, and promote a sense of presence. In small doses, it can be a tool for mindfulness and self-reflection.

• Cannabis and Hormonal Balance: Cannabis has potential benefits in regulating hormones, easing menstrual symptoms, and reducing mood swings linked to PMS and menopause. By calming the nervous system, it supports emotional stability.

Magic Mushrooms: A Breakthrough for Mental Clarity

Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, is gaining recognition for its profound effects on mental well-being.

• Microdosing for Mood and Focus: Microdosing psilocybin (taking small, sub-perceptual doses) has been shown to enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve focus – perfect for women managing high-pressure lifestyles.

• Breaking Through Emotional Barriers: Higher doses in guided settings can lead to deep emotional healing, helping women process past traumas, gain self-awareness, and experience profound mental clarity.

• Resetting the Mind: Psilocybin can help "reset" thought patterns, making it a powerful tool for breaking negative cycles, improving self-esteem, and fostering personal growth.

Holistic Alternatives for Mental Detox

While cannabis and magic mushrooms can be powerful tools, other holistic approaches support mental clarity and emotional well-being.

• Herbal Medicine and Adaptogens: Plants like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil help the body adapt to stress, regulate cortisol levels, and promote calmness.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Daily meditation and deep breathing exercises help quiet the mind, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional resilience. Guided visualization and journaling also help release negative thoughts.

• Breathwork and Cold Therapy: Techniques like the Wim Hof method use breath control and cold exposure to reduce stress, improve focus, and strengthen mental resilience.

• Movement and Energy Work: Yoga, tai chi, and Qigong integrate breath with movement, helping detox the mind while enhancing body awareness and emotional balance.

• Creative Therapy and Sound Healing: Music therapy, sound baths, and creative outlets like painting or dancing activate the brain's relaxation response, promoting mental clarity and self-expression.

• Sleep and Digital Detox: Prioritizing quality sleep and reducing screen time before bed significantly improves cognitive function, mood, and mental clarity.

Breaking the Stigma and Embracing Natural Wellness

Despite their benefits, cannabis and psilocybin have been stigmatized for decades. As society shifts toward plant-based healing, it's time to recognize their potential in women's health alongside other holistic practices.

• Empowerment through Knowledge: Understanding these natural tools allows women to make informed choices about their well-being.

• Safe and Responsible Use: Whether incorporating CBD into a self-care routine or exploring microdosing, education is key.

• Community and Support: More women are sharing their experiences with plant medicine, helping break the stigma and create supportive spaces.

Final Thoughts

Detoxing the mind is not just about eliminating stress – it's about cultivating mental clarity, emotional balance, and self-empowerment. Whether through cannabis, magic mushrooms, or holistic alternatives, women have a range of natural tools to support their mental well-being.

By embracing self-care, challenging outdated stigmas, and exploring natural healing methods, women can reclaim their mental wellness – one mindful moment at a time.

References:

1. Wim Hof – Wim Hof Method Guided Breathing for Beginners (3 Rounds Slow Pace)

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Does CDB lessen the effects of THC?

Cannabis research can be a fickle beast. Decades of prohibition created a lot of red tape for researchers, so scientific knowledge of the plant is still in its infancy. Because cannabis hasn’t been studied extensively, research on it can yo-yo back and forth, and something proven one day can be disproven or reversed later on down the road, leaving cannabis consumers scratching their heads. 

A recent example comes with two studies published in the past few months, which both claim that CBD does not reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, reversing a commonly held idea of one of CBD’s benefits. 

To figure out what cannabis consumers can take away from this new info, let’s look at the history of research on this topic and what the new studies say.

What does past Research on CBD and THC say?

Going back decades, a common belief has been that CBD can reduce the negative effects of THC - if you’re too high or don’t want to get too high, take a little CBD or consume a THC product that also has a little CBD to mellow out the high. Many studies have claimed this, and it has been reported on at Leafly.

The idea is that CBD molecules block receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, so that THC can’t fully activate those receptors, which lessens the feeling of being high. 

Many older studies have made claims of CBD’s ability to dampen THC: As early as 1982, a study said that CBD can diminish paranoia and anxiety brought on by THC; and a study in 2010 said CBD and THC have opposite effects, and that CBD can reduce paranoia in THC.

Notably, a review from 2013 looked at nearly 1,300 studies from the previous few decades and concluded that, “The few studies that exist on the effects of CBD show that this cannabinoid can counteract some of the negative effects of THC.” However, the authors did emphasize that, “Their results have not always been consistent.” The study also said there were surprisingly few studies to date on the interactions between THC and the potentially protective effects of CBD.

What do the recent Studies on CBD and THC say?

Two studies published in the past few months disagree with the idea that CBD tempers THC. In a UK study from November 2022, 46 participants vaped oil with various ratios of CBD to THC to determine CBD’s effects on THC. They tested products with CBD:THC ratios of 0:1, 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1, with 0mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 30mg of CBD, and found no difference in effects.

According to the study authors, “We found no evidence of CBD reducing the acute adverse effects of THC on cognition and mental health. Similarly, there was no evidence that it altered the subjective or pleasurable effects of THC.” 

Another study from the UK in July 2023 backs up this data. It looked at the effects of cannabis on teens vs. adults, and how THC and CBD affect both. Forty-eight participants, 24 teens and 24 adults, vaporized a product with 3:1 CBD to THC (24mg to 8mg) and a product with only THC, and found no difference in the subjective feel of effects in individuals. 

The authors ultimately concluded that “Our results add further weight to the claim that doses of vaporized CBD, which are near to naturally occurring levels, do not mitigate the acute harms of THC.” As a side note, the study also found no differences in effects between teens and adults.

How should Consumers take this new info?

It is often assumed that products containing CBD are less potent or can reduce negative THC effects, but the findings from both studies suggest that CBD may not be a determining factor in the strength of a product. Consumers who buy products with CBD thinking they are getting “weed lite” or less potent products may be incorrect in their thinking. 

But because cannabis research is still so young, it’s hard to know if these studies are the final word on the matter or just another bump in the road. There are still some caveats.

In the review from last Nov., the authors do note a previous study that shows CBD to lessen some of THC’s effects, but the participants in it were given exceptionally large doses of 600mg of CBD to 5mg of THC - a ratio of 120:1 CBD to THC! The authors concluded such a large amount of CBD is impractical to put in a commercial vape cartridge. So CBD may temper THC’s effects, but it may be that astronomical amounts of it are needed.

At the end of the day, it may be difficult to separate and clearly delineate these two compounds and their effects because of the entourage effect - or how all the compounds in the cannabis plant work together synergistically to create the feeling of being high, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and more. The sum is greater than the whole of the parts, so it might be hard to study the individual compounds separately. 

Cannabis research is getting better as more states legalize, but there may not be a definitive answer to the interaction of CBD and THC yet. There is a growing body of research that sways toward the idea that CBD does not temper THC’s effects, so buyers should keep that in mind the next time they’re at the dispensary. 

As always, we tell our readers that every person has a different body chemistry and will experience weed differently. You could get incredibly high or paranoid off of a hit or two from a joint, while your friend will barely feel a thing; a certain strain may make you fall asleep, while the same one will make your friend go out for a walk. It’s important to understand how your own body responds to weed. 

CBD has shown tremendous potential in treating seizures and epilepsy conditions in children, however, CBD’s medicinal benefits beyond that, or its ability to tame THC’s intoxicating effects, are inconclusive to date.

Source: Leafly.com

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

The Difference between CBD and THC

With a rising demand for natural medicines, cannabis compounds, like CBD and THC, are becoming increasingly popular due to their wide range of health benefits. While the close relationship between the two compounds may lead some to assume that both have the same impact on the body, a comparison between the molecular structures of CBD vs THC reveals the exact opposite.

The Difference between CBD and THC

If you didn’t already know - CBD and THC have the same chemical makeup: 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms.

The two are nearly identical twins. What differentiates the two compounds, however, is the arrangement of a single atom.

For any of you who weren’t paying attention in chemistry class, an atom is about a million times smaller than a human hair, so we’re talking about a microscopic difference here.

Now you’re probably wondering, with such a microscopic difference, how different can CBD and THC be? The short answer — very, very different — but let’s go over the details.

Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System

Before we dive in, it’s important to understand what cannabinoids are and how they work with the body. There are currently 85 to 113 known cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant, the most prominent of which are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).

A cannabinoid is a compound that interacts directly with our body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which in short, is a network of receptors that interact with cannabinoids to maintain vital functions throughout our body.

Scientists discovered the first cannabinoid receptor in 1988, and by 1993, they had identified a second receptor. In 1995, the two receptors were classified as the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

CB1 receptors are found abundantly in regions of the brain responsible for mental and physiological processes such as memory, high cognition, emotion, and motor coordination, while CB2 receptors are found throughout the central nervous and immune systems.

The interaction between the CB1 and CB2 receptors with cannabinoids, like CBD and THC, is the catalyst for some health benefits such as pain relief, anxiety relief, appetite stimulation, mood management and more.

Now, this is where the different positions of that tiny atom come into play. Because THC and CBD have different molecular structures, they do not interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the same manner. This greatly differentiates the effects each has on the body, which is likely the biggest concern when comparing CBD to THC.

CBD vs THC: How Each Affects the Body

While the CBD and THC both bind to the CB2 receptor, they interact with the CB1 receptors in different ways. Because of its molecular structure, the THC is able to bind directly with the CB1 receptors.

When this bond is formed, the reaction creates signals that are sent to the brain, which results in the psychoactive effects of “getting high.” In stark contrast, research shows that CBD does not bond directly with the CB1 receptor, and its presence can even negate the bond between THC and the CB1 receptors, effectively neutralizing the psychoactive effects induced by THC.

While THC certainly offers tremendous health benefits, its mind-altering effects aren’t preferred by everyone. CBD, on the other hand, can deliver many of the same benefits of THC without inducing its psychoactive effects.

CBD vs THC: Conclusion

In closing, CBD and THC share many similarities, but they also have distinct differences. I want to clarify that neither CBD or THC is better than the other. Both cannabinoids offer tremendous health benefits, and either both or one of the other could provide the relief you need. To some, the psychoactive effects of THC could be a benefit instead of a negative side effect. It’s all based on the needs of the individual.