THC and CBD: What are the differences between these molecules?

THC and CBD: What are the differences between these molecules?

THC and CBD are both molecules derived from cannabis, yet they are incomparable both in their composition and in the effects they produce on the body. So, what are the differences between THC and CBD? I'll tell you all you need to know, with an update on French legislation.

Discover also all the products of our CBD Shop.

Differences between THC and CBD: their chemical composition

The differences between THC and CBD are diverse, including their chemical composition. We suspect you're not a laboratory scientist, so we've got the lowdown for you.

A very interesting fact to remember: THC and CBD actually have the same molecular structure and interact in a very similar way with the human body by stimulating the CB1 brain receptor. Despite their similar structure, their atoms are arranged differently, which ultimately influences the effects each has on the body.

The two molecules are made up of : 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms and 2 oxygen atoms. Only the position of one hydrogen atom differs between the two, but this has a significant impact on the effects of the two molecules.

The consequence of this minimal difference? CBD has been shown to have no psychotropic effect, which is not the case with THC. THC is the molecule in cannabis that acts on the brain. 

Differences between THC and CBD: legislation

Psychotropic and non-psychotropic effects, you can imagine that this is an important parameter, especially when it comes to legislation concerning these two molecules. It's worth noting thatAmerica has authorized CBD and cannabis-derived products since 2019. However, when we mention "cannabis", not all hemp-based products are authorized at America.

In fact, cannabis-derived products are said to be legal under a number of conditions, namely: if they are made from cannabis Sativa L. Hemp-based products can be consumed at America if the THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) content is less than 0.3%. Below this percentage, the products are not considered narcotics and are therefore legal at America.

Differences between THC and CBD: potential effects

As we've said, the differences between CBD and THC are minimal, so their potential effects are also very similar. THC and CBD differences, but relatively similar effects.

Substances derived from hemp are known to act as anti-stress agents, with relaxing and soothing effects. Consumption of CBD is also said to help induce sleep and improve quality of sleep, not to mention the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects attributed to the substance. Studies are still underway, but beneficial neurological effects and appetite stimulation are also attributed to hemp-derived products. The list of benefits of cannabis-based products goes on and on. We have already written an article on the subject.

Once again, the only difference between products containing more or less THC is the impact on psycho-activity, otherwise the effects are similar.

Discover our CBD products with less than 0.3% THC

At Mama Kana, we specialize in the marketing of high-quality, legal CBD products at America. Indeed, all our items have undergone tests confirming that they contain less than 0.3% THC. From CBD oils, CBD flowers and other concentrates, to care products and products for pets, we stock everything you could wish for.

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