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CBD vs THC: What’s the tea? Is CBD the “Devil’s Lettuce?”  Because CBD and THC come from the same “Mother” plant, cannabis, it’s easy to see how people could think CBD is going to cause the same effects  as “smoking the ganja.” Although these two are siblings, CBD predominantly comes from hemp, and THC is from marijuana.   It’s like comparing a pit bull to a shitzu; they’re in the same family, but serve different purposes. Same for CBD and THC.  THE “BAKED” GOODS  The biggest difference between CBD and THC is the “blazed” euphoria.  Inside your un-stoned, sober body, there are CB1 receptors on all your cells that bind with anandamide,  your body’s naturally-made THC molecule. This controls your pleasure, motivation, and eating habits. Anandamide is released when you are meditating to create that sense of calm or during exercise to create the “runner’s high.” THC’s structure is SO similar to anandamide that it fits perfectly in the CB1 receptor, and thus causes the person to become “baked,” discuss conspiracy theories and eat a whole box of doughnuts. CBD, on the other hand, DOES NOT fit in the CB1 receptor, therefore, it doesn’t make you “blitzed.”  In fact, CBD binds with other receptors throughout your body in your immune and central nervous systems, creating a balance throughout your body. So let’s talk about the elephant in the room? The other huge difference between the two is legality. In the United States, the cannabis-related laws are ever-changing. Marijuana/THC are on the list of controlled substances, so they are federally banned. However, there are many states, and our state capitol, have passed laws about medical marijuana as long as it is prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, recreational use of marijuana has been allowed in several states. But thanks to the new 2018 Farm act, hemp has been removed from the controlled substance list, and when sourced from hemp, CBD can be purchased and consumed in all 50 states.    SO HOW ARE THEY ALIKE? Both THC and CBD  have similar molecular structure, found in cannabis, interacts with your endocannabinoid system, and have potential medical benefits. What are THC’s benefits? THC is being studied to potentially treat: pain, muscle spasticity, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, anxiety, glaucoma, and as a mood enhancer. CBD is used to treat: seizures, inflammation, pain, anxiety, depression, migraines, inflammatory bowel disease, and psychosis/ mental disorders (to name just a few). Although they are used for similar treatments, CBD is a better option for those who want the obtainable therapeutic effects without the “high,” and without the jail time.     THE TAKEAWAY: Although THC and CBD are very similar in some ways, there are two fundamental differences: THC gets you “stoned” and confines you to a jail cell and a fine; CBD does neither!  CBD takes you to peace; THC takes you to space… and potentially to the penitentiary.