Humans have resorted to various unorthodox ways to treat illnesses and diseases. From mixing random concoctions to processing herbal plants, there was never a shortage of revolutionary yet controversial methods of medication. But perhaps the longest-standing controversy in the herbal medicine industry is the use of compounds derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Drugs in the form of Cannabidiol (CBD) & Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumption have become increasingly popular over the recent decades, albeit riddled with mixed claims. As advancements in research and technology allowed us to examine the actual effects of these chemicals further, more and more evidence has surfaced to strengthen their medical attributes. This article aims to clarify specific facts surrounding using CBD and THC pills, oils, supplements, and other forms of consumption. It also attempts to further the claims regarding the health benefits of these substances to serve as a reference for users, producers, and the general public.
What is CBD & THC?
CBD and THC are two natural derivatives from plants of the Cannabis genus. Both compounds have the same molecular structure and interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system. The slight difference in the arrangement of atoms within their molecular structures accounts for the high disparity between the effects of both substances on the human body. CBD and THC can be consumed through smoking cannabis, but it is also available in oils, edibles, capsules, supplements, and more. In the US, statutory requirements mandate that industrial hemp and cannabis contain only 0.3% of THC or less to be legally sold.Â
The root cause of these substances’ controversial application is their highly addictive and euphoric feature. Users often suffer from addiction and dependency, leading to further medical complications. Nevertheless, medical applications of CBD and THC are continuously developed due to the unique health benefits they provide.Â
What are the health benefits of CBD & THC?
Both CBD and THC are primarily known for their psychoactive effects. THC binds with specific receptors in the brain, which results in a high or a sense of euphoria. In the same sense, CBD is also psychoactive. However, it does not produce the high associated with THC. CBD is proven to help with anxiety, depression, and seizures with appropriate application methods. In its prescriptive form, known as Epidiolex, CBD is used to treat rare and difficult-to-control forms of epilepsy. Aside from this, CBD medications help with other conditions, such as seizures, inflammation, nausea, migraine, depression, anxiety, psychosis, etc. On the other hand, THC medication is used for muscle spasticity, nausea, anxiety, low appetite, insomnia, etc.
Cautioned application
Similar to other forms of medication, one must observe proper caution when consuming THC and CBD. THC is known to cause temporary side effects such as increased heart rate, memory loss, anxiety, etc. On the other hand, CBD’s side effects may include fatigue, weight loss, dizziness, etc. Although these side effects are only temporary and are considered non-fatal, long-term adverse psychiatric effects are expected. Especially for adolescents who consume large quantities, THC and CBD may lead to other mental and psychiatric disorders down the line.
Substances, even those with health benefits, may still prove dangerous under improper medication. This stands true regardless of whatever medication you may think of. It is generally advised that drugs such as these be taken under professional supervision. After all, the science behind pharmaceuticals and drug is a perpetual process of research and development where facts are continuously tested and reviewed. With this, controversial methods of medication must not be addressed with hate; instead, we should collaborate and partake in the mission to educate and spread awareness regarding the truth and facts behind this endeavor.Â
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