CBD versus THC: What's the Big Difference?

Let’s start with the basics! CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in the marijuana (aka Cannabis Sativa, in science) plant. There are at least 100 compounds found in cannabis plants that can be classified as cannabinoids, but the most notable cannabinoids (and the ones listed on all cannabis products in Canada!) are THC and CBD. These compounds act on the endocannabinoid system in the human body when they bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors in our brains and immune systems. This sounds scarier than it really is, I promise! Though both CBD and THC act upon the same system in the body, they have completely different effects and expressions and are thus used by consumers in very different ways.

THC, also known as “Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol” is the primary psychoactive agent in cannabis. It’s what people seek to measure when determining how ‘high’ a particular strain will make you feel. THC predominantly binds to the receptors in the brain - the CB1 receptors. It binds to the parts of the brain responsible for thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination and movement. So it will come as no surprise that THC is associated with lessened coordination, slower response times, memory troubles, appetite increase (more colloquially known as the munchies!), and the giggles. At least for the short while it’s active in the body!

Another interesting effect of THC is a release of dopamine, often creating calm and elated sensations. This is due to THC mimicking an endocannabinoid that naturally occurs in the body, called anandamide, whose purpose is to release dopamine in the brain! It’s important to remember that the effects of THC may not be felt immediately, this is especially dependent on the method of consumption (that’s for another post). So it’s important to start slow and give your body time to feel the full effects before consuming more!

CBD (aka cannabidiol) on the other hand is non-psychoactive, it may even alter or diminish the psychoactive effect of THC on the body. This may be because it acts as a CB1 antagonist, the opposite of THC. It is known for its soothing effects, and its potential to calm both the mind and body. CBD, like all cannabinoids, can be found in all forms of Cannabis Sativa plants. The hemp plant however, is most famously known for its high quantity of CBD. Fun Fact: Hemp is actually just a variety of Cannabis Sativa plant! It has received different legal classification due to the low (less than 0.3%) quantity of THC. This is what most CBD products are made from.

CBD and THC are far from the only cannabinoids present in marijuana. As the cannabis industry becomes more and accepted, researchers are becoming more able to further study the chemical makeup of this plant, and the numerous benefits and effects that it creates. New cannabinoids are slowly but surely becoming important in the social consciousness, like CBG and CBN. But we’ll talk about those another time! For now, remember to take it low and slow with THC containing products, and consider some CBD if you need a little relaxation. Smoke on!

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