What is the difference in CBD and THC?
Both CBD and THC are chemically similar to the endocannabinoids that the body can naturally produce, therefore both CBD and THC can potentially interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors.
When these receptors are stimulated, they can release neurotransmitters throughout the body.
Neurotransmitters play an important role in regulating sleep cycles, moods, and muscle movement by acting as messengers between cells and neurons.
Although both compounds can potentially stimulate our cannabinoid receptors and trigger the release of neurotransmitters, CBD and THC can affect our bodies in various different ways.
Differences in CBD and THC:
- Stands for Cannabidiol
- Can be derived from cannabis OR hemp plant
- Non-psychoactive (does not make you “high”)
- Hemp-Derived CBD is legal on the federal level in all 50 states
- Can have potential health benefits that are still being studied
- Is not typically screened for in drug tests due to the non-psychoactive properties
- Stands for Tetrahydrocannabinol
- Found in cannabis (marijuana) plants
- Trace amounts (0.3%) can be found in legal hemp products
- Induces a psychoactive effect on the body and mind
- Not legal on the federal level
- Legal medicinally in 33 states
- Legal recreationally in 15 states, plus Washington D.C.
- Is a typical component to screen for in a drug test
Both CBD and THC are sold in a number of different forms including smokeable flower, pre-rolls, concentrated oils, tinctures, lotions and balms, baked goods, infused candies, and chewing gums so there is certainly a variety in both categories. While CBD and THC are different, they have similar uses.
