What is the difference between CBD and THC?

As we see nationwide steps towards legalization and cannabis research, more and more cannabis products are popping up every day, including CBD, a cannabis product which lacks in THC, the intoxicator found in common marijuana. 

CBD vs THC

Though both derived from the cannabis plant, the effects on your body from CBD and THC are very different, though also mixed together for a more pleasant experience for its users.

To put it simply, Delta 9 THC is responsible for the intoxicating effects, or the high, that one feels from cannabis use. CBD on the other hand is not intoxicating and is actually responsible for binding to the cannabinoid receptors to block some of the intoxicating effects of THC. This mixture creates a less psychoactive reaction to cannabis and makes for a more pleasurable experience for its consumers.

Where a high dose of THC can cause an intense, psychoactive high, a high dose of CBD is found to create a relaxing, euphoric experience with possible brain clarity.

As far as the medical and scientific differences between these two cannabinoids goes, we are going to leave that to more qualified folks, which you can read here!

Difference Between Delta 8 THC and CBD

The other "THC" that people are looking at today is Delta 8 THC. While Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC might sound similar, they are very different in many ways. 

Delta 9 THC is chemical in marijuana that is responsible for the "high" that you experience. Delta 8 THC shares a similar chemical structure to that of Delta 9, but Delta 8 THC binds much more weakly to the CB receptors in the brain. This make for a more mild effect to that of Delta 9 THC.

Delta 8 THC however, has a more evident effect than CBD. While people who use CBD might feel only a mild sensation, These same people will certainly feel the effects of Delta 8 THC.

We go into more depth in the article What is The Difference Between CBD and Delta 8 THC. Make sure to check it out if you would like to read more about this topic!

Differences in Chemical Structure of CBD and THC

As surprising as it sounds, THC and CBD share the exact same chemical formula—21 carbon atoms, 20 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. Yet, their atoms are arranged differently, which separates them into different chemical properties. The result of this is why they affect the human body in their own way.

Psychoactive Components of CBD and THC

Now that you know the reason behind their chemical differences, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—which cannabinoids are psychoactive? CBD does not showcase such effects. However, if you are using products with hemp-derived Delta 9-THC, it has the potential to be psychoactive.

CBD vs THC Medical Benefits

Unfortunately, we are not able to discuss the potential medicinal benefits of CBD, THC, or other hemp-derived cannabinoids. If you have questions about this topic, we encourage you to consult your physician, conduct thorough research from reliable resources, and make a well-informed decision.

CBD vs THC Effects

If you have tried hemp products in the past, you can attest that each experience you have is unique, and there’s a reason for it. Many factors can affect how you feel, due to tolerance, the amount you take, metabolism, and even your environment. Because of this, we cannot guarantee that you will have any of the effects below. With that in mind, let’s discuss the differences between CBD and Delta 9 effects.

Based on some of the feedback we have received, after cannabis enthusiasts consumed CBD, they have reported feeling calm and relaxed, without any noticeably intense effects. On the other hand, Delta 9 has been described to induce feelings of euphoria, motivation, and at times, can give someone a mighty appetite.

Upon learning the structural differences between CBD and THC, it’s no wonder that they offer a completely different experience, but like anything, if you are new to Delta 9 or CBD, always start small and wait patiently for the effects to begin.

CBD and THC Legality Difference

If you follow hemp laws closely, you will know that the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production, sale, and distribution of hemp on a federal level. Since the passing of this bill, hemp has been removed from the Controlled Substances Act, legally separated from marijuana, and is defined as a cannabis plant with 0.3% or less of Delta 9 THC.

The only legal difference between CBD and Delta 9 is their concentration limits. As stated above, a hemp product can contain up to 0.3% of Delta 9 concentration on a dry weight basis. Whereas CBD, along with other hemp-derived cannabinoids, does not have a concentration limit.

Drug Testing

Here is the thing about standard drug tests—most of its research is based on Delta-9 THC, which is why they are made to detect THC metabolites. Despite there being many variations of THC beyond Delta-9, we still do not have adequate research on how other cannabinoids can affect a drug test.

It would be easy to assume that since CBD isn’t THC, it shouldn’t appear on a drug test. However, some CBD products, such as full-spectrum CBD, can contain up to 0.3% of Delta 9. Although not all them contain THC, we encourage you to stop using hemp products if you have an upcoming drug test.

Final Word

Both CBD and THC can provide you with a number of things. Just remember to do your research and reach out to your physician before use. By doing this, it will help you decide if cannabinoids are the right fit for you, but more importantly, so you can enter the world of cannabis confidently and safely.

We hope you enjoy our CBD products and are always happy to answer any questions you may have!