By now, many people are familiar with the two cannabinoid powerhouses CBD and THC. Both are naturally occurring in cannabis and hemp plants, though the modern cannabis industry has done a lot of work to lower CBD levels. The results are high THC strains that have much lower CBD amounts.
Hemp and cannabis plants are the very same plant. A hemp plant is classified as cannabis if it has more than .3% of naturally occurring THC. If it doesn’t, it is federally labeled hemp, and after the 2018 Farm Bill, it is legal for sale in all 50 states.
How does THC work?
After consumption of cannabis through smoking or ingestion, the THC finds its way to the bloodstream. Once it crosses the blood-brain barrier, THC molecules begin interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ES).
The ES is responsible for maintaining the body’s homeostasis or balance. It is also key in relegating almost all neurotransmitters. The endocannabinoid system also involves vital functions, including stress, food intake, metabolism, and pain.
Once the THC diffuses into the neural synapses of the ES, where it activates CB1 receptors, the disruption in the typical flow of neurotransmitters is thought to result in the feeling of euphoria or “high” that cannabis consumption typically creates.
How does CBD work
While CBD does not directly interact with the CB1 receptors in the ES, it still has an indirect impact. It is currently thought that CBD prevents the metabolism of endocannabinoids like Anandamide. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that are naturally produced in the body that specifically interact with the ES.
Anandamide, also known as the “bliss molecule,” is connected to our feeling of happiness. By preventing this molecule from breaking down, CBD is thought to be influencing a state of wellbeing or calm.
There is much research into using CBD as a treatment for childhood epilepsy. Animal and human studies suggest that CBD may help with anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and addiction, but we need more studies to confirm these potential benefits.
How do THC and CBD work together?
These two cannabinoids do not compete in the endocannabinoid system, meaning that the potential benefits of each cannabinoid are possible to experience. THC binds to the CB1 receptor, while CBD does not.
However, CBD has 14 different mechanisms of action with the central nervous system, meaning that while THC influences the endocannabinoids system, CBD influences many other areas.
How do they benefit from each other?
Taking just THC or CBD alone can be beneficial. However, when taken in tandem (especially with terpenes), the benefits are even more significant. Therefore, to maximize the potential influence of these cannabinoids, consider taking them together.
Many folks are now talking about the benefits of full-spectrum products, including the many other constituents in a hemp or cannabis flower. These include terpenes and bioflavonoids. When taken together, they encourage what is called “The Entourage Effect.”
This idea explains how cannabinoids are potentiated by each other’s presence in the endocannabinoid system. While more studies are needed, some research suggests that the unwanted side effects of THC can be mitigated by also taking CBD. CBD can block the CB1 receptor, preventing more THC from being active in the endocannabinoid system.
Why take CBD and THC together?
There are many great reasons to try these two cannabinoids together. A 2011 review of studies by the British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD may reduce unhelpful side effects of THC.
For recreational uses, having CBD to mitigate the effects of THC on the body can be very welcome for folks who experience anxiety, racing heart, or paranoia. Likewise, people who use THC for medicinal use but want a lesser psychotropic effect can benefit from including CBD in their cannabis consumption.
There are many great and tasty ways to experience these two cannabinoids together. Consider mixing cannabis and hemp flowers to make a joint or blunt to enjoy the benefits of both. You can also take them separately by taking a CBD tincture and then smoking THC flowers some time afterward. Combine THC and CBD gummies to experience the longer high that edibles typically provide elevated by the influence of CBD. Finally, THC and CBD soft gels are a quick and easy way to pop some cannabinoid products and enjoy the ride.
Find CBD Products Near You
There is a multitude of CBD and THC products to mix and match to your heart’s desire! At https://thehemphaus.com you can find a wide variety of CBD options to enhance your experience with cannabis or to enjoy on its own! Visit us online and browse an incredible variety of edibles, tinctures, flowers, and more. Get these high-quality products shipped straight to your door.
For folks in the Kansas City, Missouri area, visit us in person. We are ready to answer questions and showcase the best CBD products in the area. We source from farms and suppliers that use organic growing practices and truly care about creating high-potency products for the people.