There's a reason marijuana has been popular among physicians for centuries; plenty of the compounds found in the plant — called cannabinoids — have medicinal benefits, but we're only going to talk about the two most popular and prevalent: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids are responsible for providing the lion's share of marijuana's recreational and medicinal effects.
What are Cannabinoids?
Did you know there are three variations of the cannabis plant? They are cannabis Indica, cannabis Sativa, and cannabis Ruderalis. (Some experts believe Ruderalis is a subspecies of Sativa.) Under the umbrella of the first two species — or combinations therein — are hundreds of strains, and each contains a percentage of either THC and CBD.
Most strains contain higher concentrations of THC than CBD, though there are strains — many of them specially bred for this exact purpose — that contain high amounts of CBD.
Most people believe that these two popular cannabinoids exist in the plant from the moment it germinates, going from seed into tiny seedling, but THC and CBD are actually by-products of acids (THC-A and CBD-A, most commonly); these precursors are broken down by decarboxylation, a process that makes the molecules more compatible with our body. Decarboxylation occurs when marijuana plant material is exposed to high heat for prolonged periods, and during the drying and curing processes after harvest.
Marijuana Munchies
You may have had the pleasure of discovering the unique high
of a marijuana-infused edible, but did you know that the whole plant is consumable?
Proponent Dr. William Courtney believes that, along with beneficial THC-A and CBD-A,
raw marijuana plants contain all the vitamins and nutrients necessary to maintain
a healthy human body. If you're willing to endure the bitter flavour, that is.
Why are THC and CBD So Special?
Chemically, cannabinoids mimic neurotransmitters produced by our own bodies, which is why they react so readily with our endocannabinoid systems (which was discovered while researchers were studying the effects of cannabinoids on the human body). THC binds with receptors throughout the brain and body, and CBD encourages more active uptake of existing molecules. This may be one of the reasons CBD is not psychoactive, like THC, although this could also be because most receptors that accept the neurotransmitters influenced by CBD are located throughout the body and not in the brain.
The Fundamental Difference Between THC and CBD
You'll find a lot of people, particularly those who aren't familiar with cannabinoids and CBD, discuss THC like it's the be all and end all of the plant. We know better, especially since over 80 different cannabinoids have been isolated and considered unique and beneficial in their own right. THC's popularity is derived from its high concentrations and hallucinogenic properties – high doses can deliver euphoric effects, and have been known to boost mood and sociability. It can also make you feel "spaced out", a common concern and one of the many reasons cannabis has historically faced strict regulation in various jurisdictions around the world. THC can cause diminished focus and mental acuity, among other things, and does need to be used with care.
This is where the usefulness of non-hallucinogenic CBD comes into play. This compound, almost always produced in much lower quantities per plant, can provide similar feelings of relaxation without the trippy "high". For this reason, it has become a popular option for patients and even physicians, who are more comfortable recommending a natural remedy that has little to no negative side effects and is suitable for patients of all ages and walks of life.
Canadian Law and the Role of CBD
You've no doubt noticed the countless articles and opinion pieces popping up all over the net regarding marijuana and its legal status. Marijuana advocates have long been in favour of legalising cannabis use for both recreational and medical purposes — and Canada has led the way, becoming one of the first countries in the world to legalise recreational cannabis nationwide under the Cannabis Act in 2018.
While Canada has made tremendous strides in cannabis legalisation, there is still a wealth of ongoing research into the long-term effects of cannabis on our health, and regulators continue to refine the rules around its production, sale, and consumption across all provinces and territories.
CBD-rich products have proven especially appealing to those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects of THC. These products have become increasingly accessible through licensed retailers across the country, serving as an approachable entry point for patients and wellness-minded consumers who may be more cautious about THC. As more clinical evidence emerges, Canada's framework under the Cannabis Act continues to evolve to reflect the many benefits and applications of this all-natural and much-beloved plant.
When you're planning your own cannabis garden, find the best quality cannabis seeds by shopping online with Pacific Seed Bank. We carry hundreds of popular seed strains, from traditionally recreational to potent medical, and beyond.
