What is the difference between THC and CBD?

What is the difference between THC and CBD?

What is the difference between THC and CBD?

Posted by on 2025-02-21

THC and CBD are two of the most well-known compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they have very different effects on the human body. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the "high" that people feel when they consume marijuana. CBD, or cannabidiol, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and does not produce a high.


One of the main differences between THC and CBD is their effect on the brain. THC binds to receptors in the brain known as CB1 receptors, which are responsible for producing feelings of euphoria and relaxation. This is what causes the high that people experience when they consume marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, does not bind to these receptors and instead interacts with other receptors in the body that are thought to regulate pain and inflammation.


Another key difference between THC and CBD is their legality. While THC is still illegal at the federal level in many countries, including the United States, CBD has been legalized in many places for medical use. This is because CBD has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits without producing intoxicating effects.


In terms of side effects, THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory and coordination in some individuals. CBD, on the other hand, is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. In fact, many people use CBD specifically for its calming and anti-anxiety properties.


Overall, while both THC and CBD come from the same plant, they have very different effects on the body. THC produces a high and can have negative side effects for some individuals, while CBD does not produce a high and may have therapeutic benefits without any intoxicating effects.