As medical researchers learn more about the potential advantages of cannabis, our understanding of this uniquely complex plant only continues to grow. 

For years, cannabis advocates have pointed to the impressive diversity of positive experiences associated with medical cannabis use. And now, we know more than ever about how cannabis and its derivatives can support a wide range of needs and goals.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at the world of cannabis and cannabinoid derivatives. Although “cannabis derivatives” and “cannabinoid derivatives” are two terms often used interchangeably, understanding their key differences and definitions is essential.

What are Cannabis Derivatives?

Cannabis derivatives is the general term used to describe all of the products that are created using various parts of the cannabis plant, such as:

• Cannabis products that do not contain THC (such as CBD-only tinctures)
• Cannabis products that do contain THC (such as cannabis oil)
• FDA-approved cannabis-based medicines that can be prescribed by certain medical professionals, such as Epidiolex, Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet

Essentially, cannabis derivatives include products formulated with plants belonging to the Cannabis genus.

What are Hemp Derivatives?

Hemp derivatives are products specifically sourced from the hemp plant, which belongs to the same genus as marijuana. However, hemp (particularly “industrial hemp”) is more commonly cultivated for non-drug use and is often bred for minimal levels of THC. 

Hemp derivatives include products within the food and beverage, personal care, pet care, and pharmaceutical industries. For example, hemp seed oil falls within this category, as does CBD oil. 

What are Cannabinoid Derivatives?

When people often refer to “cannabis derivatives,” they are talking about cannabinoid derivatives.

Cannabinoids (or endocannabinoids) are the naturally-occurring compounds specifically found within Cannabis plants. They interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors to produce various physical or mental reactions. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating a large number of neurobiological processes. 

Two of the most well-known cannabinoids are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), though many others are attracting researchers’ attention. Cannabinoid derivatives are the various products that may contain one or more of these cannabinoids, typically precisely formulated to deliver a specific series of effects. 

With cannabinoid derivatives, individuals interested in the potential advantages of cannabis or hemp can explore different products that target highly precise needs and goals. 

CBD vs. THC

A large majority of cannabinoid derivatives contain either CBD or THC or, in some cases, both. Although a growing number of products focus on other cannabinoids, these two remain the most popular by far.

So, what’s the difference between CBD and THC? Even though both cannabinoids come from the same plant, they each have unique chemical structures, effects, and legal statuses. 

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound derived from cannabis Sativa plants (which includes both hemp and marijuana plants). 

Due to their low THC concentration, many CBD products are sourced from hemp plants. For individuals hoping to receive advantages from cannabinoids, CBD products from hemp can be a welcome alternative to traditional marijuana. 

What is THC?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary cannabinoid occurring in Cannabis Sativa plants. It is most commonly associated with the psychoactive “high” that most people connect to marijuana consumption. 

CBD vs. THC: Key Differences

Although CBD and THC are chemical compounds from the Cannabis genus, they have inherent differences.

• Chemical structure: Although THC and CBD have the same chemical formula, their varying structures mean they interact with the body differently. As a result, THC and CBD bind differently to the body’s endocannabinoid receptors.
• Psychoactive properties: Technically, CBD does have certain psychoactive properties, meaning that it can affect the mind. But unlike THC, it is not intoxicating. This is directly related to the differences in how these cannabinoids bind to receptors. Therefore, CBD-only products do not create a “high.”
• Legality: Products with THC are regulated according to state and federal marijuana laws. In contrast, CBD products made from industrial hemp (which is legally required to contain 0.3% or less THC) are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. There is a certain amount of gray area, largely due to confusion between federal and state regulations.

How are CBD and THC Similar?

Even with their numerous differences, THC and CBD also have similarities. 

• Therapeutic benefits: Various studies have shown that both THC and CBD have the potential to serve a range of medicinal needs, both individually and when consumed in tandem. Research is still ongoing, but we have learned that cannabinoids may help ease symptoms or issues related to:
  • Ongoing Discomforts
  • Nervousness
  • Intense Moments of Sadness
  • Convulsions 
  • Negative Habits
  • Digestive complaints
  • Aftermath of chemotherapy
  • Sleeplessness
  • Queasiness

• Consumption methods: CBD and THC are typically presented in similar forms, allowing them to be consumed in many of the same ways, including:
  • Oils or extracts
  • Edibles
  • Vapor/vape products
  • Smoke inhalation
  • Topical products

Cannabis Derivatives as Cancer Treatment

Medical research has found promising results that cannabis may be useful in some cancer treatment applications. 

A 2018 study showed that cannabinoids might have remarkable anti-tumor properties, specifically when used in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM), a highly aggressive form of brain cancer. On a molecular level, it appears that cannabinoids may reduce tumor growth and work to destroy tumor cells. Although further research is needed, these results are incredibly exciting for healthcare professionals and patients.

Cannabis derivatives are also commonly utilized by individuals undergoing cancer treatments to reduce the unwanted aftermath of symptoms caused by chemotherapy. Specifically, cannabis has been shown to be effective in easing queasiness and sickness related to chemotherapy. 

Learn More about the Cannabis Industry with MMX

Are you a cannabis entrepreneur in the making? Or maybe, you’re already an established cannabusiness owner interested in expanding your success. Whatever the case, Marijuana Marketing Xperts is your source for cannabis industry news, research, trends, and more. 

In addition to sharing important information about cannabis, we’re also a leading provider of marijuana marketing education and services. Our experienced team understands the nuances of cannabis advertising, making us uniquely well-equipped to develop effective marketing strategies for dispensaries, cannabis brands, and other related businesses. 

Get more information about the cannabis industry and how to grow your business when you contact Marijuana Marketing Xperts today.

 

Photo Credits: leksii Avramchuk, Agave Photo Studio, PRO Stock Professional, joel bubble ben, Stokkete