CBD, THC, and Pain Relief: What’s the Difference?

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for medical purposes for centuries. The two main compounds found in cannabis are CBD and THC. Both of these cannabinoids are effective in treating pain. However, they work in different ways. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between CBD and THC in pain relief.

CBD vs. THC for Pain Relief

The two main cannabinoids found in cannabis are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high. THC, on the other hand, is psychoactive and is responsible for the plant’s mind-altering effects. So, which one is better for pain relief?

Studies have shown that both CBD and THC are effective at reducing pain. However, THC appears to be more potent than CBD when it comes to pain relief. A 2008 study showed that THC was more effective than CBD in reducing inflammation and pain in rats. A 2010 study found that combining CBD and THC was more effective at reducing pain and inflammation than just THC alone.

THC is also more effective than CBD at reducing nerve pain and muscle spasms. CBD is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. THC can cause some adverse effects, including paranoia, anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, red eyes, and slowed reaction time.

Overall, both CBD and THC are effective at reducing pain. THC appears more potent than CBD when it comes to pain relief but may cause some adverse effects. If you start with THC, it is essential to begin with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It would be best to follow a THC Dosing Guide.

The Different Forms of CBD

All CBD products are not created equal. The CBD molecule’s form allows it to be absorbed in different ways by the body. The most common forms of CBD on the market are:

CBD isolate is the most common form of CBD on the market. Pure CBD has been isolated from all other cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, including THC. It is available in powder or crystals that can be added to oils, foods, and beverages or used to make your own CBD products. CBD isolate is not psychoactive, which means it will not get you high.
Full-spectrum CBD is the second most common form of CBD on the market. It contains all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including THC. It is available in oil form that can be used on its own or added to other oils, foods, and beverages. Full-spectrum CBD products may also contain trace amounts of other minerals and nutrients. Full-spectrum CBD is psychoactive, which means it will get you high.
Broad-spectrum CBD is the third most common form of CBD on the market. It also contains all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but the THC has been removed. It is available in oil form that can be used on its own or added to other oils, foods, and beverages. Broad-spectrum CBD products may also contain trace amounts of other minerals and nutrients. Broad-spectrum CBD is not psychoactive, which means it will not get you high.

How Does CBD Work?

CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of receptors and enzymes that play a role in many processes in the body, including pain, immunity, sleep, and mood.

CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies. For example, in one study, rats given CBD showed reduced inflammation and pain after being induced with arthritis.

CBD does not act on the same receptors as THC. Therefore, it does not produce a “high” or change a person’s state of mind. However, it may help to:

Reduce anxiety
Relieve pain
Reduce inflammation
Treat seizures and other neurological disorders.

CBD is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you’re taking for conditions like anxiety or depression.

What Are the Side Effects of CBD?

CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile. According to a review in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, the most common side effects include:

diarrhea
changes in appetite
weight gain or weight loss
fatigue
drowsiness
dry mouth
nausea and vomiting

What Are the Side Effects of THC?

THC can cause some side effects, including:

increased heart rate
decreased blood pressure, which can cause people to feel lightheaded
memory and learning problems
coordination problems
increased appetite

What Are the Side Effects of CBD and THC Combined?

The effects of using both THC and CBD are often more significant than using either one alone. This is called the entourage effect. Some potential side effects of using both THC and CBD include:

anxiety
dizziness
confusion

Essential Factors To Consider Before Taking CBD or THC

Before taking CBD or THC for pain relief, it’s essential to consider a few factors:

Your overall health: If you have a health condition, it’s always best to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement. This is especially true if you’re taking other medications.

The severity of your pain: CBD and THC may be more effective for certain types of pain than others. For example, they may be more effective for chronic pain than acute pain.

Your personal preferences: Some people prefer not to get high, while others find that the psychoactive effects of THC help them manage their pain.

The form of CBD or THC you take: The form of the CBD or THC molecule affects how the body absorbs it. This, in turn, affects how long it takes to feel the effects and how long the results last.

Your dosage: The amount of CBD or THC you take will also affect how long the effects last. A higher dose may provide longer-lasting relief than a lower dose.

CBD and THC are both effective for pain relief but work best when used together. This is because they have different mechanisms of action in the body and act on other receptors. Therefore, when used together, they can provide synergistic pain relief.

If you’re considering taking CBD or THC for pain relief, talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if it’s safe for you and the best dosage.