CBD vs. THC: What's the Difference?

Cannabis contains over 400 chemical compounds such as cannabinoids, terpenoids, flavinoids, and omega fatty acids. Of these, over 100 are cannabinoids. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two types of cannabinoids derived from cannabis. In recent years, interest has grown in the potential health effects and benefits of cannabis. Much of this interest has centered on these two cannabinoids. 

This interest will likely grow as cannabis and marijuana products become legal in more states. A number of different products have emerged that contain CBD, THC, or both. Such products are designed to alleviate ailments such as stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

To understand these products' effects and potential risks, it is important to first understand the differences between CBD and THC.

This article discusses the differences between CBD and THC, their medicinal uses, and their potential effects. It also covers the legality of these substances, how they are used, and how to get help if you are experiencing a THC addiction.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, usually referred to as CBD, is the second most prevalent chemical compound found in cannabis (second to THC). First discovered during the 1940s, CBD has recently become more popular as a natural treatment for a range of conditions. It can be derived from hemp or marijuana plants. These are both cannabis plants with the main difference being the quantity of THC in each. Hemp-derived CBD contains trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%), while marijuana-derived CBD will contain more.

What is THC?

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), THC activates the brain's reward system by signaling the release of the brain chemical dopamine.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood and pleasure. By triggering a higher-than-normal release of dopamine, THC causes people to experience feelings of euphoria. THC is often administered by smoking marijuana, but it can also be found as an ingredient in capsules, edibles, tinctures, and oils.

CBD vs. THC: Key Differences

THC and CBD have an effect on the endocannabinoid system, a system that plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis. Researchers are still working to understand the ins and outs of this complex system, but they do know that it is associated with processes including memory, appetite, sleep, mood, and fertility.

While THC and CBD share similarities, there are some key differences between the two compounds.

THC and CBD: Psychoactive Properties

CBD and THC affect different receptors in the brain. Because of this, CBD does not have psychoactive effects—in other words, it won't cause you to get high.

CBD vs. THC: Chemical Structure

Both CBD and THC have a chemical structure that is similar to the body's natural endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that act in the brain. 

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that relay signals between nerve cells in the body. They play an important role in a wide range of functions including sleep, pain, appetite, mood, and the immune system.

CBD and THC have the same molecular structure, but there are differences in how these molecules are arranged that are responsible for the differing effects they have. By mimicking endocannabinoids, they bind with receptors and cause different effects in the body.

CBD vs. THC: Sources

While CBD can come from either hemp or marijuana, CBD products are often derived from hemp in order to avoid the addition of larger amounts of THC. THC, on the other hand, is derived from marijuana.

CBD that comes from marijuana may contain more THC, which may not be ideal for people who are trying to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC. It is important to know which plant your CBD products are derived from before purchasing.

CBD vs. THC: Potential Benefits

While research on the potential health benefits of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids is still in the early stages, there is evidence that these substances may be helpful for conditions including:

• Anxiety
• Appetite
• Glaucoma
• Epilepsy
• HIV/AIDS
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBD)
• Movement disorders
• Multiple sclerosis
• Opioid dependence
• Pain
• Sleep difficulties

While CBD and THC often have similar effects and are often used to treat many of the same ailments, there are some differences.

CBD is often used to alleviate symptoms associated with:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Inflammation
• Migraines
• Pre-menstrual syndrome
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Seizures

While some early research suggests that CBD may have the potential for alleviating the symptoms of some conditions, a 2019 review of the existing research concluded that more research is needed to demonstrate these benefits.

THC, which may be administered as medical marijuana, may be used to alleviate symptoms of a number of medical conditions. It may be helpful for conditions such as:

• Glaucoma
• Insomnia
• Nausea; it may help alleviate nausea caused by cancer treatment
• Pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraine headaches
• Poor appetite; including appetite problems caused by cancer treatment
• Tremors
  

FDA-Approved Medications

While cannabis itself has not been FDA approved to treat any condition, there are a few drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that contain CBD or THC.

• Epidiolex contains CBD and has been approved to treat seizures associated with two severe types of epilepsy—Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
• Marinol and Syndros are drugs that contain dronabinol, a synthetic THC. These drugs are used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy during cancer treatment.
• Cesamet contains nabilone, a synthetic substance that is similar to THC. This drug is used to treat weight loss and appetite problems associated with chemotherapy and HIV/AIDS.

CBD vs. THC: Effects

Some research suggests that CBD and THC are generally safe when used at recommended dosages. However, while these substances appear safe, that does not necessarily mean that you won't experience potentially unwanted effects. Some effects that have been reported include:

• Changes in mood and appetite
• Drowsiness
• Feelings of anxiety or other mood changes
• Nausea and dizziness
  

Marijuana itself can have a number of short-term and long-term effects, including impaired short-term memory, altered judgment, and impaired coordination. Research also suggests that marijuana can alter brain development and may lead to cognitive impairment.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse also notes that THC alters how the hippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex function. These areas of the brain are important in the formation of new memories and the ability to shift attention from one thing to the next. This not only affects a person's ability to learn and form new memories, but it also makes it difficult for people to perform difficult tasks.  

Legality of THC and CBD

When choosing CBD or THC products, it is also important to consider their legality. Both marijuana and THC are included in the U.S. Controlled Substances Act, which means that they are not legal under federal law.

As of May 2024, 24 states and Washington, D.C. have legalized the recreational use of marijuana, and 38 states have enacted policies allowing medical marijuana and products containing THC to be prescribed by a doctor.

Although CBD in certain forms (cosmetics, oils, creams) is legal in most states, it must be a product of hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC.

Despite federal laws, the specifics of the legality of any THC or CBD product can vary from one state to the next.

Forms of CBD and THC

Both THC and CBD can be consumed in a number of different forms. THC may be consumed as marijuana by smoking, but a number of other cannabis products are also available including:

• Oils
• Tinctures
• Sprays
• Vape products
• Edibles including gummies and chocolates
• Beverages containing marijuana oil

Like THC, CBD can also be consumed in a number of different forms. CBD oils can be formulated for vaping, although there have been recent concerns about the health dangers posed by vaping.

It can also be added to lotions and salves to apply to skin. It is important to note that the effects of these topical products will be localized since they are not being ingested.

CBD can also be taken orally as a tincture, oil, capsule, or spray. Edible CBD products are also popular and include gummies, candies, and beverages.

Choosing THC or CBD Products

The product you choose may depend on the effects you are trying to achieve as well as the availability of these products in your state based on their legal status. If you are trying to reduce stress or sleep better, for example, CBD may provide benefits without the negative side effects associated with THC. THC might be a better choice for symptoms or conditions for which the substance has demonstrated benefits, such as tremors or poor appetite.

If you are trying to determine what type of product you should take, always follow your doctor's recommendations. Your doctor may suggest certain products or dosages depending on your needs.

Taking CBD along with THC has also been shown to help reduce some of the unwanted effects that THC may have. For example, using products with high THC levels leads to a greater risk of experiencing psychiatric symptoms such as paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis. Studies have found, however, that CBD may help mitigate these effects. 

One study found that CBD helped block some of the potential psychiatric effects of THC. The authors of the study suggest that such findings have important implications for the use of cannabis products. People who are prone to unwanted side effects, for example, may be able to still gain the potential health benefits by sticking to products that are low in THC and higher in CBD content.

Some evidence suggests that the combined effects of CBD and THC may be dependent on dose. A 2019 study, for example, found that low doses of CBD actually played a role in amplifying the psychoactive effects of THC, while high doses of CBD reduced THC’s effects.

Mislabeling of Products Containing CBD and THC

Many CBD products do contain trace amounts of THC. While these amounts are small, they may still have an effect if you are consuming large quantities of CBD or if the products you are using contain more THC than the packaging label claims. 

There is no way to tell between THC and CBD based on appearance, smell, taste, or texture. Purchasing products from reputable manufacturers and retailers may help ensure that you are getting the type of product you want.

Precautions and Warnings

THC and CBD may also have an effect on some health conditions and can interact with certain medications, so you should always use caution before taking these products. These substances might impact how medications are metabolized by your body. They can also heighten feelings of anxiety in some cases.

THC and CBD: Dependence and Addiction

It is also important to consider the potential for dependence and addiction when taking products containing CBD and THC. Because CBD does not possess intoxicating properties, it does not have the potential to cause addiction. THC, on the other hand, attaches to the endocannabinoid receptors that are linked to the brain's reward system. This can produce feelings of pleasure and euphoria, as well as create the potential for dependence and addiction.

Research suggests that using products with higher THC levels is linked to a higher risk for addiction. While CBD products often purport to have no THC or very low levels of THC, they often contain more than labels suggest. This means that taking CBD may lead to accidental exposure to THC, which could potentially lead to addiction if taken in sufficient amounts.

If you think you might have an addiction to THC, talk to your doctor about available treatments. Treatments typically involve psychotherapy, although medications may sometimes be prescribed to treat co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. 

Types of therapy that might be helpful include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This approach can help people change the negative thought patterns that influence substance use. CBT also teaches people new coping skills that can be helpful when coping with cravings and other symptoms.
• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET): This treatment approach can help people adjust their beliefs and develop a stronger motivation to overcome their addiction.