CBD vs THC: 101

There is often a lot of confusion between CBD and THC, but there really shouldn’t be, as science is actually nice and neat. Here’s our quick guide to help you know your CBD from your THC…

What do CBD and THC stand for?

CBD is the shortened form cannabidiol. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol.

Do CBD and THC come from the same plant?

THC and CBD are 2 of over 113 chemical compounds that make up cannabis Sativa plants (hemp and marijuana). But just because they are constituent parts of the cannabis Sativa plant, doesn’t mean that they have the same properties.

The major difference is that CBD isn’t prominent in all cannabis Sativa plants, whereas THC always is.

In hemp, the legal amount of THC must be less than 0.3%, but it’s there nonetheless. In the case of marijuana, most strains were bred for THC potency. CBD has to be intentionally bred, to be low in THC and therefore devoid of its psychoactive effects.

What are the main differences between CBD and THC?

Despite being from the same family, they are treated differently legally and socially.

The major known difference is that THC can have intoxicating effects and distinct possible negative side effects when compared to CBD. Too much THC may induce anxiety, paranoia or unintended sedation. Most marijuana plants are bred with a high amount of THC compared to other cannabinoids and terpenes.

 

Also and legally, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, (federal) hemp is now legal, and accordingly CBD with a THC content of less than 0.3% is in most states too (please check state cannabis programs.)

Are CBD and THC benefits the same?

In many respects, yes, but by very important measures, they aren’t! Studies reflect that they both may be helpful for pain management, anxiety, depression, and a myriad of other health conditions.

And while they can also both be considered psychoactive, i.e. both possessing the ability to change your mood or mindset, THC is associated with the high you get from marijuana consumption, while CBD is associated with the health benefits that naturally occur in the body by unlocking your endocannabinoid system.

Do CBD and THC work together?

CBD and THC synergize into the renown entourage effect. This ultimately means that the two can combine forces to boost wellness benefits. However, it is important to know what you are taking and if you have any concerns at all relating to THC consumption to go for full spectrum or whole plant CBD products with trace amounts of THC. That way you may experience optimal relief compared to isolates.

So there you have it, in short, we support CBD products adhering to the 0.3% THC limit, so you can shop safe in the knowledge that you aren’t going to suffer any adverse psychoactive effects but rather, benefit from the physical and mental wellbeing derived from CBD.

If you want a CBD saying to live by, let it be this; “THC has its place, but for most us, it should be trace” and don’t forget to check out some of our new products here.

Anthony
(Founder, CBD Products)

Anthony Tribunella

Having experienced the benefits of CBD first hand when it was starting to gain popularity, Anthony decided to spend his working life championing it to the public and his peers in the wider CBD community. As a CBD innovator himself, Anthony likes to remain at the leading edge of scientific and product development to ensure that the potential of CBD has every chance of being fully realized.

See all posts by Anthony Tribunella

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