CBD Vs THC: Which Offers Better Pain Relief?

Living with pain can be a daily struggle, reducing your quality of life and preventing you from doing many of the things you love. It used to be that people either just pushed through the pain or turned to pharmaceuticals, ranging from paracetamol and aspirin right through to opioids. But it shouldn’t have to be a choice between pain or potentially dangerous drugs.

In recent years, people of all ages and backgrounds have been exploring alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals, in the form of cannabidiol (CBD) and/or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), for help in relieving pain, including chronic pain.

So which is better at relieving pain: CBD, THC or a combination of both? Well, the answer depends on your individual circumstances and needs.

In this blog, we’ll look at CBD and THC to help you decide what’s right for you.

What Are CBD And THC?

Before we explore the difference in pain relief potential between CBD and THC, we need to understand what they both are and how they function in the body.

CBD and THC are compounds found in the cannabis plant. CBD is non-psychoactive and is renowned for its potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. THC, on the other hand, is psychoactive, which means it causes the “high” effect that’s commonly associated with marijuana consumption. It’s also known for its pain relieving effect and how it can alter mood, which may also assist in pain relief.

You may ask how CBD and THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Both CBD and THC interact with the ECS in different ways. The ECS plays a crucial role in maintaining balance within the body. CBD is thought to modulate the ECS without directly binding to cannabinoid receptors, while THC interacts directly with CB1 receptors, producing the “high” effect.

Comparing Pain-Relieving Effects: CBD Vs. THC

The common medical uses of CBD and THC for pain relief are slightly different due to their different characteristics.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties have been explored in various studies, showing potential for pain management associated with chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and joint pain, neuropathy (nerve pain) and migraines, and without a risk of dependency or addiction.

Meanwhile, THC, with its psychoactive properties, has been found to relieve pain in conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis and cancer. It may also assist in managing neuropathic pain and reducing muscle spasms. However, due to its psychoactive effects, THC may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who want to avoid the high effects of THC or who cannot have even trace amounts of THC due to their employment, such as those in the military or those who operate machinery.

While regular marijuana products (those which will get you high) are illegal Australia-wide for recreational use, medicinal cannabis is legal Australia-wide, but you do need a prescription from a medical practitioner who is able to prescribe these products.

But what about for those people who want to experience the benefits of THC without getting high? Never fear, Down To Earth is here!

CBD Products With Trace Amounts Of THC

At Down To Earth, we have a range of CBD products that have trace amounts of THC in them. These trace amounts cannot get you high as there is a maximum concentration of 0.3% THC. CBD products that contain trace amounts of THC are called full-spectrum CBD products. Apart from CBD and THC, full-spectrum products contain all the other compounds found in the cannabis plant such as other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.

We also stock products that are broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain everything that full-spectrum CBD products do except THC, while CBD isolate is pure CBD.

So why do we offer three different options? Studies have shown that by including the full spectrum of compounds found in the cannabis plant, the body experiences what’s known as the “entourage effect”. The entourage effect is the synergistic interaction of the various cannabinoids, terpenes and other compounds in the cannabis plant. When combined, these components work together, enhancing the therapeutic effects of each other.

Broad-spectrum CBD is a great choice for people who want to experience the entourage effect, but can’t or don’t want to have even trace amounts of THC in their system.

What CBD Products Should I Take For Pain Relief?

At Down To Earth, we stock a range of CBD products to suit everyone’s needs, from oils to edibles such as gummies, chocolate and even honey, as well as skincare like balms, serums and even bath salts!

Our range comes in full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and CBD isolate, so we have something to suit everyone.

CBD oils are great for fast-acting relief. Usually taken under the tongue, oils get into your bloodstream quickly.

CBD edibles are a popular choice for those on the go or those who need to take their CBD in a discreet manner, like a gummy or piece of chocolate, or even a cuppa with honey, at work. Because CBD edibles are ingested, the relieving effects will usually take longer to feel than oil under the tongue.

For people with joint pain or arthritis, as well as athletes needing some post-workout relief, consider our range of skincare including our soothing balms.

Or for those who want to combine ultimate relaxation and pain relief, our bath salts are a perfect way to just soak the pain away.

CBD Products With Trace Amounts of THC: Superior Pain Relief?

There are many pain treatment options using the power of CBD. Whether you choose full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate will ultimately depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.

As with any health-related decision, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor when exploring cannabinoid-based remedies, especially if you have any medical conditions or use any medication.

Still have some questions? Get in touch with one of our friendly team members who’ll be only too happy to help!