CBD and THC are two abbreviations commonly discussed when talking about marijuana or cannabis, but what’s the real difference between them? And is it really as big a difference as people make it out to be?
TL;DR: Yes, the difference matters.
What is THC?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a cannabinoid acid found in the cannabis plant.
Let’s try that again.
THC is one of several similar chemicals found in cannabis.
The biggest difference between THC and the other cannabinoid acids is the psychoactive effect it has on our bodies.
THC attaches to endocannabinoid receptors in our brain and overload the system, producing a “high” effect.
THC is the reason marijuana makes you high.
So what is CBD?
CBD is another cannabinoid acid found in the cannabis plant, but it won’t get you high.
CBD doesn’t overload your endocannabinoid system like THC does. Instead, it sharpens or fine tunes the system, helping everything function properly.
Adding CBD into a poorly functioning endocannabinoid system is like insulin for diabetics. It supports, strengthens, and improves functionality, making the system run optimally.
What’s the difference between CBD and THC?
Well, they’re similar. They’re both cannabinoid acids that are found in cannabis plants. And they both interact with the endocannabinoid system.
But they’re different in functionality. One overwhelms and overloads (THC) while one fine tunes and enhances (CBD).
Which one should I use?
It really depends on what you’re after. If you’re trying to get high, be sure you’re doing it legally, and seek out THC in the marijuana classification of cannabis.
If you’re trying to improve health and wellness, CBD is an amazing place to start. CBD is found more prevalently in the hemp classification of cannabis. (We sell CBD on our site!) CBD is legal thanks to the Farm Bill – just be sure your CBD has less than .3% THC!