Whether you’re familiar with cannabis or looking to dabble for the first time, chances are you’ve heard of CBD and THC. These two natural compounds found in plants of the cannabis genus are known as cannabinoids, and both interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. However, they have quite different effects.
Hello High Dispensary aims to make the cannabis shopping experience a breeze for customers in southern New Jersey. In addition to premium cannabis products, we offer users in-depth education. Here, we detail the difference between CBD and THC and what you need to know to enhance your marijuana experience.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most prevalent active ingredient in marijuana and is derived directly from the hemp plant. It does not cause a high by itself and therefore is readily obtainable in most parts of the United States. According to the World Health Organization, CBD exhibits no dependence potential and is unlikely to impact daily functioning or workplace performance alone.
CBD is available in many forms, such as oils, capsules, patches, tinctures, and more. Customers using CBD to help with aches and pains generally prefer topical-based CBD products, whereas others prefer products that allow CBD to enter the bloodstream directly.
What Is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive ingredient in the cannabis plant and is what produces the high users feel when consuming marijuana. Like CBD, THC is available in a variety of consumption methods, including flower, pre rolls, and vapes.
More Differences Between CBD vs. THC
Although CBD and CBD come from the same plant, they are unique in the following ways:
Chemical Structure
CBD and THC share the same molecular structure, which consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. A difference in the arrangement of atoms influences how CBD and THC bind with the receptors in the body.
Psychoactive Feelings
Despite their similar chemical structures, THC is commonly associated with feelings of euphoria while CBD is not. However, a common misconception regarding CBD is that it’s not psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t affect the mind. CBD is psychoactive just like THC. The difference is CBD is not intoxicating and therefore does not impair function.
THC produces a high feeling by binding with CB1 receptors. CBD fails to attach to CB1 or CB2 receptors like THC does, which is why it doesn’t yield the same effects and give users the high feeling that is most associated with marijuana products.
Onset Time and Duration
How long it takes to feel the effects of CBD and THC typically differ. Generally, CBD consumption takes anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour to feel the desired effects. Conversely, THC commonly has a much quicker onset, and the effects are usually felt within minutes of consumption. Duration of effects often varies as well, with THC effects lasting much longer than the effects of CBD.
Legal Considerations
In the U.S., cannabis-related laws are continuously evolving, allowing consumption to become more widespread. At the federal level, CBD products are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill provided they don’t contain more than 0.3% THC. Cannabis products that contain more than 0.3% THC are illegal according to federal law.
However, varying state laws make legality tricky. Currently, 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana use. Additionally, many states have either fully or partially decriminalized recreational cannabis use.
Drug Testing
Most drug tests administered look for traces of THC and not CBD. However, CBD-sensitive tests are available and may be used depending on the reason for the test. Both cannabinoids are stored in the body’s fat, allowing them to show up on a drug test for several days or even weeks after consumption.
It’s important to note that THC can be detected on a drug test even if someone consumes only CBD-based products. Products that claim to be THC-free may include trace levels of THC that fall under the legal limit yet show up in a drug test.
Discover More About CBD and THC at Hello High Dispensary
CBD and THC are both considered safe but differ in how they affect the user. Understanding these differences is crucial to achieving your ideal cannabis experience. The highly trained staff of bud-tenders at Hello High Dispensary possess an expert level of cannabis knowledge and can help you determine which cannabis products best suit your needs. We are happy to answer questions and help customers make informed decisions.
Hello High Dispensary also offers convenient delivery services. With a minimum purchase of $50, customers in South Jersey can have their orders delivered directly to their location ($150 minimum in our Red Zone delivery area). For more information, contact us today.
