Since the 1970s at the latest, hemp has been primarily associated with its intoxicating effects. The legalization of cannabis in Germany and Austria is currently being hotly debated. This is about THC, the not yet legalized cannabinoid. While CBD, on the other hand, is already available in pharmacies or in so-called hemp vending machines.
CBD stands for cannabidiol and THC is an abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol. Both are active ingredients that are obtained from the hemp plant. They belong to the group of cannabinoids and differ only in that they have an open carbon ring at the atomic level. Nevertheless, the two substances have very different effects on the human body.
The effect on the human body
THC has a psychoactive effect and causes a state of intoxication. When taken, an increased amount of dopamine is released. This explains the euphoric feelings when intoxicated. These intoxicating properties affect concentration, thinking skills, movement and general coordination.
THC consumption can be recognized externally by red eyes and a dry mouth. In the worst cases, it even leads to memory lapses and/or memory loss. If consumed too often or too much, THC can cause psychosis, paranoia or depression.
Due to the interest of law enforcement, THC is also the most researched cannabinoid.
CBD does not have a psychotic effect compared to THC. The lack of long-term side effects is particularly relevant for medicine. CBD evokes a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Research into CBD is in full swing and there are more and more CBD-containing hemp products on the market.
And here we come to the next big advantage of CBD. This is legally available. As long as the THC limit does not exceed 0.2%, it can be sold freely.
CBD is becoming more and more important in medicine. The latest research shows that CBD has many positive health properties, unlike THC. The greatest benefit is said to be in relieving chronic pain, inflammation, migraines, arthritis, convulsions and epilepsy and schizophrenia.
And summarized again:
| THC | CBD |
| C₂₁H₃₀O₂ | C21 H26 O2 |
| Psychoactive/intoxicating | Non-psychoactive/intoxicating |
| Only medical THC is available with a prescription | Freely available |
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