CBD vs. THC: What are the big differences?

Whether you already know the best CBD oil in Canada or you’re looking to buy your first high-THC strain, you may not be familiar with how these two cannabinoids differ. Science is constantly uncovering new properties to cannabis, but here are the basics.

The Big Differences Between CBD and THC

Within cannabis, naturally occurring compounds known as cannabinoids are found. There are a large number of cannabinoids, and each one interacts uniquely with your body’s endocannabinoid system.

Let’s compare the two most common cannabinoids: CBD and THC.

Psychoactivity

While cannabis is known to get you high and having fun, only one compound creates the effect. THC, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive component in cannabis. Without it, you won’t feel the standard high.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has no psychoactive effects.

Medical Benefits

The medical benefits of CBD are gaining recognition and more research is being done all the time. The compound is best used to treat complex problems like arthritis, diabetes, insomnia, and mental health issues. It is growing in popularity as a treatment for anxiety and stress, among other problems.

While CBD is beneficial in treating pain, THC is often better for treating intense or chronic pain, alongside issues like nausea and appetite changes. A mix of the two cannabinoids can often be the most beneficial, especially if you are worried about your THC tolerance.

Tolerance

Regardless of how much CBD you take, you likely won’t experience any negative effects. It is incredibly well-tolerated, even at very high doses, though we don’t recommend taking any more than you need.

Using THC, however, can cause adverse side effects. It can be pretty easy to overdose—also known as “greening out”—especially if you don’t know your tolerance yet. While greening out is not dangerous, doing so is very unpleasant.

Side Effects

As mentioned, CBD doesn’t often produce side effects. However, there are a few instances where your body may react poorly, usually caused by conflicting medications. These symptoms include fatigue, appetite changes, and dizziness.

THC has a much larger variety of symptoms, including dry mouth, slow reactions, and memory loss. In the case of greening out, you may also experience paranoia, anxiety, disorientation and an inability to move, and nausea.

These symptoms should all go away with time, but fresh air, a quiet space, and eating can help reduce them.

Delivery Methods

While there are many ways to consume different concentrations of cannabis, CBD and THC can be found in some common forms.

CBD is most commonly found in forms that allow you to create even portions, such as tinctures, oils, and edibles. Oils are perfect for portioning, and you can buy CBD oils in Canada that cause different effects, such as relaxation and calmness.

THC consumption can take the same forms as CBD, but fresh bud is more common. There is a large market for uniquely tasting and smelling strains, and most producers focus on high THC products.

Edibles and vapes are also everyday high-THC products, as are concentrates.

The Best CBD Oil in Canada vs. THC Bud

Now that you know the differences between CBD and THC, you should better be able to identify what type of cannabis is right for you. Many products offer one or both of these compounds, which allows you plenty of options to explore what you like best.