One of the most common reasons why people use cannabis is to alleviate pain. It’s fast becoming a popular alternative to conventional pain medications, providing relief from chronic pain, migraines, digestive discomfort, arthritis, muscle aches, and more. The two most well-known compounds in cannabis, CBD and THC, play a role in alleviating pain. The question many users have, though, is which cannabinoid is better. Here’s what you need to know about CBD vs THC for pain.

The Difference Between CBD and THC

CBD and THC are two of the most prevalent cannabinoids in cannabis. They both interact with the endocannabinoid system. Where THC interacts directly with the cannabinoid receptors, CBD interacts indirectly, and they both provide relief for various types of pain.

The most notable difference between the two cannabinoids is that THC causes users to get high, and CBD doesn’t. The lack of CBD’s psychoactive effects has made it quite popular recently, as it can provide relief without affecting your mind.

CBD vs THC For Pain

As mentioned earlier, CBD and THC both interact with the cannabinoid receptors in your endocannabinoid system. THC interacts directly with receptors, binding with them to unlock specific effects. When it activates the receptors, one of the effects is to block pain signals, reducing the amount of pain you feel.

The high caused by the cannabinoid also affects your perception of pain. It triggers feelings of euphoria, which take your mind off of your discomfort, making it more bearable.

CBD, on the other hand, interacts indirectly with cannabinoid receptors. It also interacts directly with serotonin and vanilloid receptors. By interacting with these receptors, the cannabinoid can help to reduce your perception of pain. CBD also aids in reducing inflammation, which can also help to reduce pain and discomfort.

Which Cannabinoid Is Better?

Many users often wonder which cannabinoid is better for treating pain. There is no definitive answer. CBD has anti-inflammatory effects, while THC has properties that allow you to better deal with pain.

While one might not be better than the other, combining the two may have the most beneficial effects. When the two cannabinoids work together, they amplify the benefits each has to offer, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. At the same time, CBD helps to mitigate the psychoactive effects of THC and enhance its efficacy.

Different strains have different CBD vs THC ratios. Some are higher in one cannabinoid than the other, while others are fairly balanced. The best strain for you depends on your specific pain and your tolerance level. Some people do better with high CBD strains, while others do better with high THC. A budtender at your local dispensary can help you to find the ideal solutions based on your type of pain and your specific goals.

Both CBD and THC are effective for treating various types of pain, providing you with the relief you need without the unwanted side effects of conventional medications. While the two may work better together, they’re also effective on your own. Everyone is different. The best cannabinoid for your discomfort depends on your unique needs and personal preferences.