THC vs. CBD in a Cannabis Dispensary

When it comes to seeking out marijuana products, patients have a plethora of criteria to work with. There are two terms you’ll likely see a lot when learning about cannabis: cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Whether you’re interested in smoking cannabis or trying out tinctures and edibles, THC and CBD are two compounds commonly found in marijuana products that play a huge role in your cannabis experience. 

So with that said, here’s a look into exactly what THC and CBD do and how to tell them apart.

Understanding Cannabinoids – How It Works

Cannabis consists of hundreds of cannabinoids – or chemicals that cause reactions within your body by interacting with certain elements. Both THC and CBD share the same chemical formula and work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in your body, which affect how neurotransmitters in the brain are released. Neurotransmitters are essential in relaying messages to cells and play important roles in pain management, stress relief, memory, mood, sleep and immune function.

Despite sharing the same molecular structure, atoms are arranged differently in both – which is the explanation for how the two have drastically different effects on patients’ bodies.

How CBD and THC differ

It’s important to note the effects of CBD and THC will vary for everyone. Part of the reason behind this lies in how the two interact with your body’s receptors.

THC is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. By working with receptors associated with the brain and spinal cord, THC is responsible for the sensation of getting high, that light-headed sense of euphoria commonly associated with cannabis. 

CBD works in a different manner – binding to a different set of receptors in your body and known for managing everything from seizures and anxiety to diabetes and chronic pain, without the intense psychoactive properties associated with THC. 

Understanding CBD and THC ratios

Knowing that THC is responsible for the feeling of getting high, patients may be strictly looking for products that are CBD-oriented. But it’s silly to avoid THC products entirely. For first-time marijuana patients, an equal mix of CBD and THC in medicinal marijuana products works best! 

CBD and THC can be combined at different ratios to produce different effects on the body. CBD can counteract THC’s psychoactive effects, meaning products with a higher CBD to THC ratio will result in a smaller high but increased beneficial effects. 

When looking to determine what ratio works best for you, you’ll want to try some different ratios to see what effects they can have. A 1:1 ratio means there are equal amounts of CBD and THC present, while a 20:1 ratio means there are 20 parts CBD to one part THC. Generally, the higher the CBD, the less high you’ll receive from THC. If you’re looking to avoid any impairment or intoxicating effects during the day and the condition in question does not require THC, look for products with ratios less than 10:1. 

By starting with a CBD-heavy ratio and working to increase THC in your system, you can better determine the right amount for your needs. Start low and go slow!

Where to Find CBD and THC in West Memphis

Thanks to recently introduced state legislation that legalized hemp-derived products (which contain less than 0.3% THC, a major difference from marijuana), CBD products are widely available in West Memphis without the need for a prescription, provided they contain no more than 0.3% THC. Products with a higher level of THC content, such as cannabis, will require a medical marijuana card issued by the state of Arkansas. 

Coincidentally, there’s one place in West Memphis where you can find both CBD and THC-related products – Body and Mind West Memphis dispensary! Applying to become a medical marijuana patient in West Memphis can allow you to take the first steps to legally purchase medical marijuana products and experiment to see what products are right for you with the help of our fantastic team.

If you’re looking for more resources on CBD and THC, be sure to read through our blog or give us a visit at our Body and Mind West Memphis marijuana dispensary.