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What's the Difference Between CBD and THC?

Medically Reviewed on 10/31/2022
What's the Difference Between CBD and THC
The main difference between CBD and THC is that, unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive properties and does not cause a high

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are both cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant (hemp or marijuana).

The main difference between CBD and THC is that, unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive properties and does not cause a high. CBD alone is primarily used for medicinal purposes and does not have the potential to cause addiction or substance abuse.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the hundreds of cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. It is used in a broad range of products:

  • Oral: Available in the form of over-the-counter tablets and capsules
  • Oil and tinctures: Contain a high concentration of CBD
  • Topicals: Can be applied directly to the skin, hair, or nails
  • Vape liquids: Found in certain e-cigarette liquids, which are vaporized in the same way as other vape liquids
  • Foods and drinks: Several brands have started to incorporate CBD into various foods and beverages such as chocolate and coffee

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the predominant psychoactive ingredient found in the cannabis plant. THC is found in marijuana and used as an ingredient in capsules, edibles, and oils.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), THC works by activating the brain by signaling the release of the brain chemical dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood and pleasure. THC triggers a higher-than-normal release of dopamine, leading to feelings of euphoria.

CBD vs. THC

CBD and THC interact with the body in a variety of ways, one of which is by mimicking and augmenting the effects of the compounds in the body called endogenous cannabinoids, a part of the endocannabinoid system (which maintains homeostasis).

Table. Differences between CBD and THC
Differences CBD THC
Source
  • Cannabis plant
  • Typically sourced from hemp (hemp-derived CBD contains trace amounts of THC, while marijuana-derived CBD contains more THC)
  • Cannabis plant
  • Typically sourced from marijuana
Psychoactive or addictive properties Not present Present
Ability to produce a high No Yes
Used for medicinal purposes Yes No
Potential health benefits
  • Alleviates pain
  • Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
  • Improves sleep
  • Promotes bone health
  • Combats neurodegenerative diseases
  • Acts as a bronchodilator in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Relieves anxiety
  • Helps with addiction
  • Alleviates symptoms of: 
    • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    • Epilepsy
    • Anxiety
    • Glaucoma
    • HIV/AIDS
    • Pain
    • Opioid dependence
    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
    • Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBD)
    • Multiple sclerosis
    • Sleep difficulties
    • Movement disorders
  • Usually administered as medical marijuana and alleviates symptoms of:
    • Glaucoma
    • Insomnia
    • Nausea
    • Pain related to arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraine
    • Poor appetite
    • Tremors
Pain relief Yes Yes
Legality Certain forms of CBD are legal in most states Some states allow the recreational use of marijuana and THC-containing products
Covered under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act Yes Yes

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What are the potential side effects of CBD vs. THC?

Cannabidiol (CBD) side effects

CBD may produce side effects such as:

  • Nausea
  • Irritability
  • Gastrointestinal upset (reduced appetite or diarrhea)
  • Fatigue
  • Liver injury
  • Drowsiness
  • Agitation
  • Mood changes

Some studies have reported that CBD can interact with blood thinners such as warfarin and may increase the risk of bleeding. Animal studies have reported that CBD consumption during pregnancy may damage the reproductive organs in male fetuses.

Avoid using CBD while taking the following medications:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) side effects

THC can have several short-term and long-term adverse effects, including:

  • Impaired short-term memory
  • Altered judgment
  • Impaired coordination
  • Cognitive impairment

Health News

Medically Reviewed on 10/31/2022
References
Image Source: iStock image

Health Benefits of CBD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cbd#1

What Is CBD? https://www.projectcbd.org/about/what-cbd

Evidence for THC versus CBD in cannabinoids. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6042662/

Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know

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