The Difference Between CBD and THC

Overview

With the legalization of marijuana in some areas of the U.S. and the growing popularity of marijuana and cannabis products, it is important that consumers understand the difference between CBD and THC. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are two natural compounds found in cannabis plants. In this blog, we will discuss the different effects of these two compounds as well as where they come from.

Before we can discuss the different compounds, we will briefly discuss the difference between the two types of cannabis plants, Hemp, and Marijuana, as it pertains to where both CBD and THC come from. CBD can be extracted from either Hemp or Marijuana, but because Hemp contains virtually no THC the main source of that compound is the Marijuana plant, which can contain anywhere from 10% - 30% THC. Now that that is out of the way we can go into the difference between the two compounds. 

The High

THC is the main psychoactive compound in Marijuana and is directly responsible for the “high” that consumers feel after consuming it. This is the most notable difference between the two compounds. 

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, which means that it will not produce a “high” on its own. This is because it forms a weak (if any) bond with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain. This is the opposite of THC which forms a strong bond with the CB1 receptors. 

Legality

In the United States, laws regarding Marijuana and THC are constantly evolving and vary from state to state. Today, they are considered to be controlled substances and are prohibited under federal law. 

Some states have passed laws making the use of medical and recreational marijuana legal, and a list of these states and their laws can be found on Leafly.com. 

As part of the Farm Bill in December 2018, Congress legalized hemp which in turn legalizes CBD. However, there are still tight restrictions on the sale and distribution of CBD products. Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level but are still illegal under some state laws.  As of right now, CBD products are not regulated by the FDA. 

The Results

Below is a chart comparing the similarities and differences between THC and CBD (provided by Healthline.com). It is important to keep in mind that the effects may vary from consumer to consumer and you should always seek the opinions of medical professionals when considering using either CBD or THC.

* CBD can be extracted from hemp (cannabis plants that contain less than 0.3 percent THC) or from marijuana plants (cannabis plants with higher concentrations of THC).

** CBD isn't detected in hemp products, but hemp products may contain trace amounts of THC. THC may show up in high enough concentrations to produce a positive drug test.

Sources

Commissioner, O. of the. (n.d.). FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products: Q&A. Retrieved April 24, 2020, from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd

Holland, K. (2019, May 20). CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference? Retrieved April 24, 2020, from https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-vs-thc#at-a-glance

Martin, L. J. (2019, August 8). CBD vs. THC: Properties, Benefits, Risks, & Legality. Retrieved April 24, 2020, from https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/cbd-thc-difference#2

Legal Disclaimer

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, ailment, injury, or condition. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a physician before use if you have a medical condition or use prescription medications. A doctor's advice should be sought before using this product and/or any supplemental dietary product. This product should not be used if you are pregnant or nursing. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.*