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8 min read
Sam North
Next up in our new patient series, we are going to take a brief but in-depth look at how the cannabinoids that dominate the cannabis-based medicine scene, THC and CBD, differ from one another, and how they can also work in harmony to provide relief for a range of medical conditions.
The two dominant cannabinoids produced by cannabis plants are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). To date, researchers have isolated more than one hundred different of these special compounds from cannabis, but only these two have been thoroughly researched.
From the different therapeutic effects to the legality and potential side effects, we will quickly cover all you need to know. By the end of today's write-up, you will be equipped with a deeper understanding of THC and CBD and how they may help you on your journey towards improved health.
THC is the cannabinoid that made cannabis famous.
It's the psychoactive compound responsible for the characteristic 'high' associated with recreational marijuana use, and the main reason cannabis has just emerged from more than a century of demonisation, prohibition, and social stigma.
But there's more to THC than just being the plant's main psychoactive ingredient. It also has a bunch of potential therapeutic effects, making it valuable for medical applications.
A few of the key therapeutic effects of THC include:
Yes, but only when it has been prescribed by a specialist registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). Recreational marijuana use remains illegal in the UK.
The truly meteoric rise of CBD over the past decade or so should come as no surprise.
Not only has it been found to offer a multitude of potential therapeutic effects, but unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive. Taking medical-grade CBD products will not cause you to feel 'high' whatsoever, but they can have a calming influence on the mind and body.
The current body of clinical research is ever-growing, but so far, researchers have found that CBD may bring relief from:
Yes, but with a few caveats.
'Over-the-counter' CBD products are only legal if they have less than 1mg of THC per product/container.
These products may not be subject to as stringent oversight or regulation as medical-grade CBD products, so it's always best to consult with a specialist before taking them.
Although the psychoactivity of THC can cause issues for some patients, both cannabinoids have been found to have a high safety profile with minimal side effects.
As with any treatment, though, there are potential side effects to be aware of.
In the simplest terms, medical cannabis relates to any products or medications derived from the cannabis sativa L. plant that are administered to treat medical conditions and alleviate symptoms.
Cannabis-based therapy options became legal almost 6 years ago here in the UK, in November 2018.
There are two routes for patients to seek a prescription.
Currently, the NHS will only provide cannabis prescriptions for three conditions - two rare types of severe epilepsy, vomiting or nausea caused by chemotherapy, and muscle stiffness caused by MS.
For all other conditions, new patients will need to work with a private medical cannabis clinic like Releaf.
There are three types of cannabinoids.
Both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids bind with endocannabinoid system receptors throughout our brain and body to produce a range of therapeutic effects.
As with any medical treatment, finding the right balance for your unique health needs is essential. Thankfully, there is now a wide range of medical-grade THC and CBD products available, allowing specialists to really fine-tune dosages and tailor treatment plans.
If you think that cannabis-based medicines may be the right option for you, reach out at any time. We are committed to helping patients start out with this complementary, natural treatment option. Our team of patient support staff and specialists are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you towards the best possible treatment plan for your specific needs.
If you want to learn more, check out our blog and education section for more in-depth readi
It is important to seek medical advice before starting any new treatments. The patient advisors at Releaf are available to provide expert advice and support. Alternatively, click here to book a consultation with one of our specialist doctors.
Get comprehensive care, convenience, and confidence with an all-in-one treatment plan.
Am I eligible?Sam North, a seasoned writer with over five years' experience and expertise in medicinal cannabis, brings clarity to complex concepts, focusing on education and informed use.
Our articles are written by experts and reviewed by medical professionals or compliance specialists. Adhering to stringent sourcing guidelines, we reference peer-reviewed studies and scholarly research. View our editorial policy.
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