There are more than 100 cannabinoids produced by the hemp plant. These are chemical substances of natural origin, which interact with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Among these, the best known and present in the greatest quantities are two: cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Let's find out, then, what are the functions and differences of the two main active ingredients of cannabis.
The differences
Characterized by a similar molecular composition and both present in the hemp plant, THC and CBD however have substantial differences. The former, which mainly binds to receptors present in nerve cells, also has psychoactive effects, while the latter binds to peripheral systems and has no psychotropic consequences. Both can help in the treatment of different pathologies.
CBD and THC have a very similar, but not identical molecular composition, which delineate two completely different substances. Not only. Because the way in which the two cannabinoids act with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system also makes the difference. THC and CBD are similar to endocannabinoids, those natural compounds produced by our body, which interact with specific receptors of the system, located in the brain and peripheral parts of the body.
The first substance, non-psychoactive, binds above all to the CB2 receptors, present in the peripheral systems of our body, in particular in the immune system. Furthermore, CBD is able to interfere with the action of THC, reducing its psychotropic effect. The second, however, psychoactive, easily binds to the CB1 receptors, located mainly in the central nervous system: for this reason, THC can have effects on the person's mind, causing euphoria or relaxation, with possible loss of space-time perception.
Since CB1 receptors affect the brain and spinal cord, what interacts with them has more potential to act psychoactively, while substances that interact with CB2 affect the rest of the body, from muscles to bones to the immune system .
What functions do they have?
There are numerous functions attributed to CBD, which in some cases has proved effective in the treatment of various ailments and pathologies . Some studies have indicated the possibility of using the cannabinoid to treat anxiety, seizures, inflammation and spasms. Furthermore, the active ingredient has demonstrated antioxidant and analgesic properties. From Parkinson's to Alzheimer's to arthritis and sleep disorders, CBD is considered one of the therapeutic components of cannabis, which is capable of treating various diseases, as well as chronic pain and the side effects of chemotherapy.
There are also several medicinal properties that are traced back to THC, considered, in general, the most important cannabinoid from a therapeutic point of view. Its uses include the treatment of disorders related to glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, cancer and Tourette's syndrome. Furthermore, this active ingredient of cannabis is used as an analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic and euphoriant
THC and CBD are able to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which is essential for maintaining the body's balance. As such, cannabis may offer important opportunities in the treatment of diseases and some ailments that usually do not respond to conventional medicines. Although the two cannabinoids are considered very important, due to their beneficial action on various pathologies, numerous studies are still underway on the subject, which aim to identify new fields of application.
