THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the two most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they have some key differences. While they are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, they have distinct effects and uses.
THC is responsible for the psychoactive "high" commonly associated with cannabis consumption. In contrast, CBD is non-intoxicating and interacts with the body in different ways.
Understanding the difference between these two cannabinoids is essential for navigating the various cannabis products available on the market and can great influence your experiences.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD but there are over 100 minor cannabinoids, such as CBG and CBN, each with unique properties that contribute to the plant's overall effect. These compounds play a key role in how cannabis interacts with the body.
What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 or THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the "high" that people experience when consuming the plant. It's the cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, making it stand out from other compounds found in the plant. Whether you're smoking, vaping, or consuming an edible, THC interacts with your brain's receptors to produce a range of effects, from euphoria to relaxation.
How Does THC Work?
When you consume THC, it binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, which are part of your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate mood, appetite, pain, and memory. THC’s interaction with the ECS is what creates that well-known high, impacting both your mental and physical state. Different strains of cannabis can have varying levels of THC, which is why some strains might feel stronger than others.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, which is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD does not produce a "high" and is often sought for its potential therapeutic benefits.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly with CB2 receptors, which are involved in regulating various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, and pain. CBD is commonly used in a variety of products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and topicals, and is valued for its ability to offer relief without the intoxicating effects associated with THC.
Do CBD and THC Work Better Together?
The entourage effect is a theory suggesting that the various compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, work together synergistically to produce a more significant effect than any single compound alone.
This interaction can enhance or modulate the overall experience, balancing and amplifying the sensory effects of cannabis. For example, while THC provides the primary psychoactive effects, other cannabinoids like CBD and terpenes like limonene might influence or alter those effects, potentially leading to a more balanced and comprehensive experience. This holistic interplay highlights why full-spectrum or whole-plant products are often preferred for their potential to deliver a broader range of effects.
