Home » Cannabis 101 – What is THC, CBD, CBG, Delta-8 and Delta-9?

Cannabis 101 – What is THC, CBD, CBG, Delta-8 and Delta-9?

And what are the health benefits for seniors?

by SHARON PLUCK

Cannabis 101 what is THC, CBD, CBG, Delta-8 and Delta-9?

Let’s talk about marijuana.  Specifically let’s discuss the compounds in marijuana.  What is the difference between THC, CBD, CBG, Delta-8 and Delta-9 ?

What is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBG (cannabigerol) are both chemical compounds known as cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant. They are both known for their psychoactive effects, but they differ in their specific effects on the body and mind.

THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is responsible for the plant’s characteristic “high.” It is known for its ability to produce feelings of relaxation, altered perception, and euphoria. THC is also known for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief and appetite stimulation.

CBG, on the other hand, is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not produce a high. Some studies suggested that CBG has the potential to reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Overall, the main difference between THC and CBD is their psychoactive effects. THC is psychoactive, while CBD is not. 

What is CBD?   

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is the precursor to other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.  CBG is present in small amounts in most strains of cannabis, but some strains have been bred to have higher levels of CBG.

CBG is thought to have a number of potential health benefits,

  • including the ability to reduce inflammation,
  • promote relaxation,
  • and potentially even inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells.     However, much of the research on the potential health benefits of CBG is still in the early stages and more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

CBG is typically consumed through the use of cannabis products such as dried flower, concentrates, or edibles. It can also be taken as a supplement in the form of a capsule or oil.

What is CBG

 
One of the biggest differences between CBD and CBG is that most cannabis plants contain only 1% CBG but up to 25% CBD. CBG interacts differently with the endocannabinoid system than CBD does.
 
 
CBG effects will vary from person to person. Some people report feeling relaxed, while others report feeling more alert and focused. The effects of CBG also depend on the dose you take. A low dose may produce milder effects, while a higher dose may produce stronger effects.

While they both have similar properties there are also differences to consider. This includes their actual chemical composition, which differs and also  impacts how they activate receptors like serotonin.

What is Delta-8

Delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 THC, which is the most well-known cannabinoid in cannabis.  Delta-8 THC is less psychoactive than delta-9 THC, but it can still produce a high when consumed.  Some people report that the effects of delta-8 THC are less intense and more relaxing than those of delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC is typically consumed through the use of cannabis products such as dried flower, concentrates, or edibles. It can also be taken as a supplement in the form of a capsule or oil. 

Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, and its legal status varies by jurisdiction. In some places, delta-8 THC is legal to possess, use, and sell, while in others it is not.

Delta-9 aka THC.

Delta-9 THC is the most common and well-known form of THC, and it is responsible for the majority of the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is responsible for the plant’s characteristic “high.” It is known for its ability to produce feelings of relaxation, altered perception, and euphoria. THC is also known for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief and appetite stimulation.

CBG, on the other hand, is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not produce a high. It is thought to have potential therapeutic effects, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have also suggested that CBG may have the potential to reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Overall, the main difference between THC and CBG is their psychoactive effects. THC is psychoactive, while CBG is not.

 

 

CBD and The Potential Health Benefits for Seniors

 

 Some people use CBD oil to relieve pain, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve sleep. There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may have potential health benefits for seniors, although more research is needed to confirm these effects. Here are a few potential benefits of CBD for seniors:

  1. Pain relief: Some research suggests that CBD may be effective in relieving chronic pain, including pain caused by arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
  2. Anxiety and stress relief: CBD may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, which may be helpful for seniors who experience anxiety or stress related to aging or other health issues.
  3. Improved sleep: Some people use CBD to improve their sleep, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may be effective in this regard.
  4. Neuroprotective effects: Some research suggests that CBD may have neuroprotective effects, which could be beneficial for seniors at risk of cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the major benefits of CBD for seniors is its ability to reduce anxiety. As we age, it is common to experience increased levels of anxiety, particularly in relation to health and mortality. CBD has been shown to have anxiety-reducing effects, making it a useful tool for seniors looking to manage anxiety symptoms.

Another potential benefit of CBD for seniors is its ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a common issue for seniors, and can lead to a variety of health problems, including joint pain and arthritis. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful option for seniors looking to reduce inflammation and manage pain.

In addition to reducing anxiety and inflammation, CBD may also be effective at relieving pain. Seniors may experience a variety of types of pain, including chronic pain from conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. CBD has been shown to have pain-relieving properties, making it a potential option for seniors looking to manage pain.

 

Since it’s legal here – let me try it

I sit here after munching on some mushroom gummies with CBD and smoking CBD flower.  I’m almost 62 years old and I feel like Lily Tomlin from Frankie & Grace show.  

I live in NJ and marijuana is legal here now.  Gone are my 1970 days of hiding marijuana in fake cassette tapes.  I’ve really never was a big fan, despite being a teenager in the late 70’s.  I have tried the newer stuff – but it’s way too strong for this 70’s girl.  Then I tried CBD without THC.  I like the CBD – i just calms me and makes me mellow – but I don’t feel the weird psychoactive effects from THC.  No paranoia – no munches.  I just feel calmer, and I think it improves my memory. 

So, personally, I am a real CBD believer, but I suppose it’s not for everyone.  

I’ve had some memory problems lately, which is one of the reasons why I started CBD in the first place.  I had an appointment with a neurologist and told her that I was taking CBD, and she agreed it had some health benefits.It’s great to know that that some medical professionals support CBD.   

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