THC vs CBD [Identifying the Differences + Benefits and Effects]

When it comes to THC vs CBD, they couldn’t be more different in their benefits, effects, and even legalities. Both cannabinoids may come from cannabis plants (marijuana and hemp), but THC is well-known for actually getting you high while CBD cannot!

Depending on your needs and preferences, you’ll often find that one of the two cannabinoids will give you the experience you’re looking for. So we’re here to tell you which one may be right for you! Read on to find out the different benefits, side effects, and all the great products you can enjoy from both THC and CBD!

What is THC?

THC, or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, specifically in marijuana. A cannabinoid refers to one of the many compounds found in cannabis plants! THC is a primary cannabinoid in marijuana and one of the most abundant and popular due to its psychoactive effects on the body and mind.

When you consume THC, it binds to the cannabinoid receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), creating euphoric and intoxicating effects. The ECS is in charge of your body’s wellness and balance, regulating your digestive, nervous, and immune systems.

What Are the Benefits of THC?

THC has an abundance of benefits that continue to make it a popular cannabinoid! It’s well-documented for its intoxicating effects that many people enjoy for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the main benefits of THC.

• Reduces physical discomfort – THC can help relieve you of physical discomfort, whether it’s soreness or aches. This is the most common reason that people turn to medical marijuana.
• Powerful relaxant – Because of THC’s ability to get you high, many people choose to consume it to sleep or relax at night. Its numbing and intoxicating effects help many people wind down after a long day.
• Increases your appetite – A popular side effect of THC is the ability to increase your appetite, or more commonly know as “munchies.” THC stimulates ghrelin, the hormone that drives you to eat more to boost your appetite. Whether or not this is a benefit to you is a different story!

What Are the Effects of THC?

Because of THC’s strong psychoactive effects, it can come with many negative side effects as well. It can change your body chemistry and affect your decision-making, so it’s important to consume marijuana safely. It’s also possible to become addicted or overly dependent on THC because of the way it alters mood.

Here are some of the potential side effects people experience from consuming THC:

• Red eyes
• Dry mouth (“cotton mouth”)
• Difficulty with thinking, problem-solving, or decision making
• Impaired memory
• Hallucinations and delusions (when taking high doses)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Intense drowsiness or fatigue
• Breathing problems
• Paranoia & anxiety

Because of these potential side effects, THC is still federally illegal. However, many states have legalized marijuana already, so it’s important to check your state’s laws regarding sale and use!

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the other primary cannabinoid found in cannabis, specifically hemp. Hemp plants typically have higher concentrations of CBD and very small amounts of THC. And unlike THC, CBD isn’t intoxicating at all, meaning it shouldn’t get you high!

Unlike THC, CBD does not bind to the ECS receptors. Because it doesn’t bind to the receptors, it doesn’t produce any high or intoxicating effects. However, it still supports your ECS in many wonderful ways, helping you reach an internal balance or homeostasis. By reaching this balance in our lives, CBD can help us function better, work more efficiently, and have improved wellness!

Related: History of CBD: How Cannabidiol Became What It Is Today

What Are the Benefits of CBD?

CBD has many benefits that you’ll feel throughout your body and mind. You’ll notice many of the effects are similar to THC but without any of the psychoactive effects.

• Relieves discomfort – CBD can relieve you of physical discomfort, including swelling, achiness, and joint stiffness. It will leave you feeling comforted and relaxed.
• Reduces negative feelings – Whether it’s anxiousness, anger, or sadness, CBD helps keep you calm and mentally strong. CBD can inspire positivity and creativity, even motivation. You’ll feel clear-headed after using CBD!
• Promotes better sleep – While CBD doesn’t have the same sedative effects as THC, it’s still extremely effective in helping you relax. By bringing an internal balance, you’ll be able to keep a more consistent sleep schedule.
• Regulates appetite & digestion – CBD doesn’t give you munchies, but because it supports your ECS, it can help you manage your appetite and digestion! Take CBD if you need a little boost to your daily diet or digestion!
• Improves skin condition – CBD topicals can help you relax and take care of your skin! The CBD penetrates deep into the muscle and skin tissues for the ultimate calming and soothing experience. The oils can also help boost skin health and keep you glowing!

What Are the Effects of CBD?

Many people prefer CBD over THC because of the minimal side effects! It’s well-tolerated by most people, and usually, the side effects are very minor. Here are some of the potential side effects to keep in mind:

• Dry mouth
• Some drowsiness
• Slight fatigue
• Mild diarrhea

Since CBD doesn’t have any mind-altering or psychoactive effects, it’s completely legal in the United States, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill! As long as the product is hemp-derived CBD and contains no more than 0.3% THC, it’s perfectly legal. Each state may have varying rules and restrictions on CBD, so remember to check your state’s policies regarding CBD.

Are THC & CBD Derived From the Same Plant?

THC and CBD are both derived from cannabis plants. However, THC is mainly extracted from marijuana, while CBD is derived from hemp. Both marijuana and hemp are species of the cannabis plant that look and smell exactly the same, but they have very different effects!

What Are the Differences Between THC vs CBD?

As may have already figured out, the way THC vs CBD affects the body and mind are very different! Whether you enjoy the high from THC or you’re looking for a more mellow experience, here are some of the main differences between these two primary cannabinoids.

Benefits and Effects

While THC and CBD have many of the same benefits, THC is often accompanied by a “body high” or “head high.” Sometimes these effects can leave users feeling disoriented or fatigued with an altered state of mind. We do not recommend trying to complete various tasks after consuming THC since you’ll most likely be feeling intoxicated and buzzed. CBD might be better for you if you’re looking to work and go about your daily routine.

THC also has many more negative side effects. If you’re looking to avoid the potential anxiety or paranoia, try CBD! CBD has very few side effects and has almost no risk of addiction because it doesn’t produce any mood-altering or body chemistry-changing effects!

Withdrawal and Addiction

There is a slight risk of addiction or dependence when regularly consuming THC. Any product or substance that alters the mind or body risks becoming addictive, including marijuana. In fact, people trying to quit marijuana often have trouble with withdrawal symptoms. People are often trying to chase that same sedative sensation and will develop a tolerance over time.

On the other hand, CBD has no addictive effects since it doesn’t impair motor function or memory. Although you can develop a tolerance, it’s only to its benefits, and there are no withdrawal symptoms at all if you stop taking CBD.

Studies also show that people can use CBD to potentially manage substance abuse, like cocaine or methamphetamines. CBD can help soothe the mind and help with withdrawal symptoms to reduce the need for using drugs. Early trials showed that CBD helped curbed cravings and reduced the chances of relapse in the test subjects.

Legality

Remember that different states have different laws and that state law may not always reflect federal law. It’s important to always check the most current regulations regarding both CBD vs THC.

When shopping for CBD, look for Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to verify that the product is accurate and effective, especially when you are shopping online. Low quality or less reputable brands may hide their COAs (or not provide them at all) in order to hide that they may have less than reported amounts of CBD or even illegal amounts of THC (over 0.3%). Remember that research is important when deciding between brands!

Related: Is CBD Flower Legal? [Yes, Here's What You Should Know]

What Type of CBD Products Are There?

As the CBD market continues to grow, you’ll see many more new, exciting ways to experience CBD. Here are some of the most popular in the marketplace right now!

• Oil tinctures
• Edibles (gummies, honey sticks, various foods)
• Topicals (lotions, creams, salves)
• Flower
• Vapes
• Concentrates

What Type of THC Products Are There?

Just like CBD, there are many ways to enjoy THC. You’ll find a product for every occasion, preference, and ailment. Here are some of the most popular THC products you’ll come across!

• Oil tinctures
• Flower
• Vape cartridges
• Edibles
• Concentrates

Why Choose Cheef Botanicals for CBD?

At Cheef Botanicals, we believe in the future of CBD and all the wonderful benefits it provides. CBD offers a brand new, holistic approach to health that can help you take back control of your life. Our mission is to teach the world how to utilize CBD to care for our minds and body the right way.

We carry the highest quality products on the market because we prioritize your health first. All of our CBD products are sourced from local USA-grown hemp, partnering with some of the top hemp farms across the country. Finding USA-grown hemp is extremely important because it is subject to strict rules and regulations by the FDA and USDA to ensure quality and safety. While imported hemp may be cheaper overall, it’s highly likely the hemp is contaminated with pesticides or even contain over 0.3% THC!

On top of that, all Cheef Botanicals’ products only use vegan, organic, all-natural ingredients that can supplement your health. We make sure to never use any preservatives, additives, or artificial ingredients to create the best product we can!

Final Thoughts – THC vs CBD

When we talk about THC vs CBD, both are amazing cannabinoids that have many benefits! Both have many enthusiasts that swear by their effects and how it helps them, but ultimately it’s up to you to decide what works best for your needs. If you’re looking for a strong, euphoric experience, THC may be your best bet. If you want more mild, passive feelings while still being able to go about your day, try CBD!

Because THC can come with certain side effects that not everyone enjoys, CBD is the perfect alternative to helping you relax while keeping you on your feet. Many people have jumped on the CBD train already and started their wellness journey — are you ready to come aboard too?

Read Next: Should I Take CBD With THC Or Without It? [Pros & Cons]