The molecular structure of the two molecules is different. Although THC and CBN are made up of three rings, the CBD molecule is distinguished by the fact that its middle ring is open. Both molecules exist in the cannabis plant – marijuana and hemp. Both hemp and marijuana have the same molecular composition, but produce different concentrations of CBD and THC, and are actually chemovars (CHEMICAL OPTIONS = Hemovars). Despite the lack of clarity on this issue, recent genetic studies have shown that the thousands of “strains” produced each year around the world for the needs of the leisure market and industry, in fact, belong to the same species (SPECIES).
THC is found in high amounts in some hemp strains, while CBD is found in high concentrations in hemp plants, not marijuana. In non-hemp growing cannabis, attempts are made to maximize the THC concentration in order to enhance the intoxicating psychoactive effects. The concentration of THC in hemp is very low and in fact CBD is the most concentrated active ingredient in hemp plants. For a cannabis plant to be classified as hemp, it must contain THC at a dose below 0.3%. The main difference between the two is how they affect us.
The difference in molecular structure affects how different molecules bind to receptors in the endocannabinoid system in our body. In simple terms, THC is intoxicating, but CBD is not. THC elicits a response from the ECS CB1R receptors located primarily in the central nervous system and brain.
Psychoactive Effects: The activation of these receptors has a psychoactive effect. On the other hand, CBD does not activate these receptors and therefore does not affect perception or sensory sensations. In fact, research shows that consuming CBD in combination with THC reduces the psychoactive and insane effects of THC, as CBD reduces the binding to CB1R receptors and actually protects the user from severe addiction.
Social Anxiety: Scientific studies show CBD may help those suffering from social anxiety or panic attacks. On the other hand, other studies show that high doses of THC can sometimes be an issue for some people.
Sperm preservation: Studies examining the combined effect of the two substances show that consumption of CBD in addition to THC reduces the psychoactive effects of THC. It was also recently discovered that isolated THC can damage the genetic material in sperm cells, and the presence of CBD prevents this damage.
