Final answer:
THC and CBD are cannabinoids, which are substances found in cannabis plants. Cannabinoids interact with the brain's receptors and can have varied effects, with THC being psychoactive and CBD being non-psychoactive with potential medical benefits. The FDA has approved certain drugs containing these compounds for medical use.
Step-by-step explanation:
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are two of more than 100 chemicals in marijuana that have various effects on the body and mind. These chemicals are collectively known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are substances found in the cannabis plant that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, leading to various physiological effects. THC is the main psychoactive component that produces the "high" associated with marijuana use, whereas CBD is known for its potential therapeutic benefits without causing a psychoactive effect.
Cannabinoids have been the subject of scientific studies due to their medical interest. The FDA has approved drugs containing THC for the treatment of nausea induced by chemotherapy and for stimulating appetite in patients with severe weight loss from AIDS. Additionally, a liquid drug containing CBD has been approved to treat severe forms of childhood epilepsy. Research continues to explore the potential of marijuana and its components for treating numerous diseases and conditions.
These cannabinoids are part of a broader category known as secondary plant compounds, which also includes psychoactive substances like nicotine, morphine, codeine, and heroin. Secondary plant compounds serve as the plant's chemical defenses against pests. In the context of marijuana, the status of its use varies depending on jurisdiction, with some allowing recreational and/or medical usage, while others deeming it illegal.