The demand for Hemp flowers is increasing as people are getting fond of hemp flowers and pre-rolls. The popularity of CBD and THC flowers has skyrocketed, capturing the attention of consumers who are seeking natural remedies for several medical issues including chronic pain and anxiety. A CBD and THC flower looks almost similar. And if you are new in this industry, it’s even confusing to differentiate between the two. You will often find yourself brainstorming over which one to pick – CBD flower or THC flower. Sit back and relax, we will give you more insight into these two Flowers and how to differentiate between them to make a reasonable choice.
CBD VS THC
CBD(Cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) are two popular chemical compounds found in hemp plants, each with unique properties and effects. While these cannabinoids come from hemp plants but differ in legal status and psychoactive effects. The big difference between these two cannabinoids is that THC binds the body’s cannabinoid receptors known as ECS (EB1, EB2) and resulting in a euphoric high. Whereas CBD doesn’t bind ECS receptors and hence no psychoactive effect is produced. CBD and THC both have potential therapeutic benefits but in a different manners. CBD is often used for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety-reducing properties and has gained recognition in treating conditions such as epilepsy, insomnia, and pain reduction. Whereas, THC has antiemetic, appetite stimulation, and analgesic effects which is beneficial in conditions like nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and other medical conditions.
Read More: Exploring the CBD & THC Ratios For Enhanced Wellness
CBD Flower or CBD Hemp Flower
It refers to the buds or flowers from the hemp plant and can also be found in marijuana plants. CBD is typically extracted from hemp plants instead of marijuana because hemp plants contain lower levels of THC(cannabinoid responsible for psychoactive effects) and higher levels of CBD. If you are looking to buy CBD flowers, look for the minimum value of THC content (below 0.3%) and a higher CBD percentage of around 20% CBD. The high levels of CBD content in the CBD hemp flowers counteract the small amount of THC and suppress the psychoactive effects.
Advantages of CBD Flower
CBD Hemp flower offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among those who are looking for therapeutic benefits. Here are some of the key benefits associated with CBD flowers.
- Potential Relief from Discomfort
- Relaxation and Stress Reduction
- Potential Sleep Aid
- Potential Mood Enhancement
- Non-psychoactive nature
- Potential Anti-inflammatory properties
THC Flower
THC flower, marijuana, and weed, these terms are used interchangeably to describe the plant material that is responsible for producing psychoactive effects. Generally, marijuana is used for extraction due to it contains a high concentration of THC content. Like CBD, THC Flower also comes in different strains and different THC percentages. The THC-dominant flower contains almost about 10%-25% THC concentration.
Advantages of THC Flower
THC flower is generally a good choice for those who are looking for the mind ‘high’ or euphoric effects. THC has sedative properties that can help you tune out and get to sleep. However, the benefits and effects can vary from person to person. Here is the list of commonly reported benefits of THC flower:
- Improved Sleep
- Pain Relief
- Appetite Stimulation
- Nausea Relief
- Creativity and Euphoria
- Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects
Read More: Is Delta 8 The Same As CBD?
How Does CBD Hemp Flowers Differ From THC Flower?
CBD flower and THC flower are two variations of the cannabis plant family. We have learned about the composition and benefits of CBD and THC flowers but to tell the primary distinctions between these two is still a challenging task. So, how would one tell the differences? Here are some key distinctions between CBD and THC flowers:
Cannabinoid Composition
THC and CBD flower differs primarily in the levels of CBD and THC content present. THC flower is cultivated with elevated levels of THC(Delta-9 THC) which is responsible for intoxicating effects. The levels of THC in THC flower can range from above 10% to typically reaching up to 30% or more in some strains. Whereas CBD flowers are specifically bred to have low levels of THC content(below 0.3% THC). The main goal of CBD flowers during cultivation is to maximize CBD content while minimizing THC levels. On average, CBD flower typically contains CBD content ranging from 10% to up to 20% or more.
Psychoactive Effects
The main distinction between these two is, the THC flower is high in THC cannabinoid that induces psychoactive effects such as euphoria, relaxation, and sedation. Whereas, CBD flower does not produce psychoactive effects, and it is often sought after for its potential therapeutic effects such as anxiety reduction, potential pain relief, and relaxation without adverse effects that caused by consuming High THC.
Labeling, Packaging, and COA
To identify THC and CBD flowers, look for the labeling information provided by the company which indicates the cannabinoid content, with the percentage of both cannabinoids THC and CBD. When in doubt, you can also look for the third-party lab result (Certificate of Analysis Report) to verify the percentage of THC.
Legal Status
The legal status of these two flowers can differ and it varies from country to country and within different regions/states. In the United States, according to farm bill 2018, hemp-derived CBD products are legal under specific regulations and should contain low levels of THC(below 0.3% THC).
Read More: What is CBDA?
Will CBD flower and THC flower show up on a Drug Test?
CBD Flower
As mentioned, CBD flower derived from hemp contains 0.3% THC by dry weight which is low in THC content. It’s highly unlikely that consuming CBD hemp flower will show up on a drug test but there is still a possibility that it could result in a positive drug test. That being said, it’s always advised to purchase CBD flower from a reputable source (D8 Gas) that has been properly tested and ensures compliance with the limit. If you are concerned about drug testing, you should consider buying CBD isolate, a broad-spectrum CBD flower, instead of a full-spectrum CBD flower. Why CBD Isolate flower? Because it contains pure CBD without any detectable THC.
THC Flower
Yes, THC flowers will show up on a drug test. Drug tests are specially designed to look for THC and its metabolites in blood, urine, and hair follicles samples. If you are concerned about THC exposure in a drug test, it may be advisable to refrain from cannabis-related products and THC flowers for some time to avoid the risk of a positive drug test.
Read More: CBD vs CBG vs CBN: What’s The Difference?
Wrapping Up
Now you understood THC and CBD flowers, you are probably thinking about purchasing them. In order to purchase quality products this hierarchy is always being suggested. First things first, choose the best and most reputable supplier(D8 Gas), then move onto the product type that matches your needs and preferences. If you don’t want to feel high and looking for relaxation then CBD flower you should consider buying. Whereas if you want to get euphoric effects, THC Flower is for you. Be sure to follow the brand’s guidelines and directions for proper dosage and use. After all, consuming anything whether CBD or THC can have unintended results.