The debate on cannabis has become far less taboo in recent years. The credit, of course, goes to the herb legalization and ease of getting a medical marijuana card. Yet, there are still many misconceptions about it. Like if asked about Cannabis or CBD oil are both the same? Many of you’ll say – yes. However, these are two different types of oils with different properties. Read on to know what cannabis oil is; how it differs from CBD oil, and what experts are saying about its potential.
You may not believe it, but cannabis is one of the world’s oldest cultivated plants. Its usage was recorded back around 7,000 years ago. More than 100 active compounds of this herb have been detected as of now and still counting. Howbeit, only these two have been studied the most among them – THC and CBD. THC or Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol is what makes you feel high. While CBD (Cannabidiol) displays anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects.
All the compounds found in the cannabis plant are extracted and dissolved in the oil. This is how medicinal cannabis oil is produced. Therapeutic cannabis oil contains various cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. Since the exact amount of cannabinoids in the oil depends on the type of cannabis the oil is made of, this amount often differs a bit.
Overall, the term “cannabis oil” typically refers to the specific extract that contains all the active ingredients of the marijuana plant, including THC and CBD.
CBD oil contains a high percentage of CBD (Cannabidiol). On the contrary, Cannabis oil contains a high percentage of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). That’s why cannabis oil is also known as THC oil. Both of these compounds, CBD and THC are extracted from the cannabis plant. In simple terms, CBD oil does not get you high as it has a low percentage of THC but offers you many health benefits.
It is one of the best medications to relieve chronic pain, deal with depression, reduce anxiety, and alleviate cancer symptoms. CBD oil is legal in all the US states as it does not contain THC.
Wait, Does That Mean You Feel High With Cannabis Oil?
No, you do not feel stoned with cannabis oil. This can be inferred from the many success stories that can be found online. The danger is that people start using cannabis oil more and more quickly without getting adequate information. Consequently, large amounts of THC provide a sensation of “high”. And if one overuse the oil, there is a risk that daily activities get too much hampered by this. Therefore, it is very crucial to get consulted by a physician.
As said above, Cannabis oil contains THC, so you can only purchase it in an area where marijuana is legal. At the time of writing, there are 34 states in the US where you can buy cannabis oil with a medical marijuana card. Namely: Arkansas, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Michigan, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, and Washington D.C.
Being a schedule 1 drug, there is limited research on cannabis oil. But, now some studies show cannabis oil has many potential health benefits, mostly for nausea, pain, and appetite.
It offers similar benefits for specific ailments as CBD oil does. Plus, the addition of a higher percentage of THC provides further advantages. THC is anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, and a pain reliever.
Nabilone and Dronabinol: These drugs are used to counteract nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy. Additionally, they also help to stimulate the appetite in AIDS patients. Both of them are synthetic forms of THC.
Sativex or Nabiximols: This drug relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis and pain in cancer patients. It contains both CBD and THC in equal amounts.
Epidiolex: This is prepared from a concentrated CBD oil and works as an anti-seizure medication for children having epilepsy.
So, now you know the difference. Still, if you have any doubts, feel free to comment below.