The Difference Between CBD and THC

CBD and THC are two of the most popular and well-known compounds found in cannabis. Though they come from the same plant, they produce very different effects on the body and mind. So, if you’re curious about trying CBD after years of sticking with THC, or perhaps you’d like to give THC a shot after getting used to CBD — or maybe you’re just hoping to understand the buzz! — we’re here to help. Let’s discuss the difference between CBD and THC.

CBD vs. THC

Definitions

CBD is short for cannabidiol. THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol. Both are cannabinoids, or chemical compounds found in the cannabis sativa plant. CBD, however, usually comes from a particular type of cannabis plant: hemp, which contains very little THC (usually less than 0.3 percent). Cannabis plants with THC concentrations greater than 0.3 percent are considered marijuana.

Psychoactive Effects

The primary difference between CBD and THC is the fact that THC is psychoactive and CBD is not. THC produces the “high” commonly associated with marijuana, a state of altered consciousness that varies but commonly features the following:

• Mood changes, such as euphoria, relaxation, anxiety, and/or paranoia
• Cognitive effects, such as difficulty with memory, focus, and decision-making
• Physical effects, including dry mouth, increased heart rate, and increased appetite

The average strength of THC in marijuana plants is generally much higher than it was years ago; it was 15 percent in 2023, up from about 4 percent in the mid-1990s. Higher levels of THC may produce hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis.

CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a high. It can create a feeling of relaxation, however. So, if you’re curious about cannabis but don’t want to experience feeling high, CBD is an excellent option.

Legality

CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3 percent THC is legal at the federal level in the United States, though some states have restrictions. For example, in Idaho, any hemp-derived CBD product must contain 0 percent THC and be classified as “not marijuana.”

THC, on the other hand, is still federally illegal in the United States. However, many states have legalized it for medical or recreational use.

Methods of Consumption

Both CBD and THC are available in many different forms, including joints, tinctures, oils, concentrates, edibles, pills, and infused drinks. However, THC is most commonly consumed via smoking, vaping, edibles, and tinctures. The most popular delivery methods for CBD, on the other hand, are tinctures, gummies, and vapes. You’ll often see CBD in topical form as well.

“Joint” Ventures

Keep in mind that THC products often include CBD — and vice versa!

Though the primary focus of THC products is typically the psychoactive effects, they may also contain CBD. And while you can find pure CBD that does not contain any other cannabinoids (i.e., CBD isolate) and CBD that doesn’t contain any THC (i.e., broad-spectrum CBD), it’s also common to see full-spectrum CBD products, which may contain trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3 percent) alongside other cannabinoids and terpenes. In fact, many people prefer products that include multiple chemical compounds of cannabis because they wish to enjoy the “entourage effect,” a theory that suggests various compounds can work together to enhance each other’s effects on the body.

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Now that you understand the difference between CBD and THC, are you interested in purchasing some CBD? If so, check out Metta Hemp. We offer a wide variety of high-quality CBD products, including full-spectrum CBD, which gives you a taste of both CBD and THC.

While you’re visiting our online shop, be sure to peruse our vast collection of CBD gummies, joints, tinctures, topicals, vapes, flowers, and more. Founded in 2017, Metta Hemp is committed to providing high-quality products, ethically grown cannabis, and kind and helpful customer service. Find our products in a store near you or shop online today!