Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two key compounds found in cannabis with one being a psychoactive component of the cannabis plant and one that does not cause a high. With 550+ chemical compounds isolated and identified in marijuana, these are 2 that you will hear the most about. With the drastic differences between the compounds and their effects on the human body, it’s important to understand them both and how they impact users. If you’re looking to learn more, this blog post will help you better understand both compounds, their differences and what to expect when consuming either.
THC: The Most Famous Compound in Marijuana
The single compound out of the several hundreds isolated that you will hear about most often is, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This main ingredient is one that produces a “high” and causes human brains to release dopamine, the human body chemical involved with mood and thinking. While cannabis consumption affects everyone differently based on many factors, some of the known effects of THC can include:
- relaxation
- laughter and excitement
- sociability
- an increased appetite
- tiredness or drowsiness
- red eyes
- dry mouth
- memory impairment
- slower reflexes and responses
- anxiety
Not all strains of cannabis contain the same concentration of THC, so this is something users need to be conscious of when shopping for cannabis. Understanding THC concentration percentages can help you with expectations for potency and effects. Cannabis flower has an average THC concentration of 15%-20% with some strains reaching as high as 35%+. Other cannabis products such as concentrates, including rosins, shatter, etc. can fall within the range of 60%-90%+ making them very potent THC options compared to flower.
Users generally come to our store locations shopping for flower and products high in THC thinking it automatically means a “stronger” high, but THC is just one compound of the cannabis plant, an important one nonetheless, that in combination with terpenes, flavonoids, cannabinoids, etc. provides effects and benefits to the user.
I don’t do drugs, though. Just weed.Dave Chappelle
CBD: Studied For Its Potential Health Benefits
Another compound you will hear and read about commonly associated with cannabis is, Cannabidiol (CBD), but this is one that users do not associate with a high or intoxicating effect, but more so for its potential benefits related to human health and how it can can affect the mind and body. As CBD has been studied for many years and continues to be studied, some of the research suggests that CBD can possibly help with:
- pain control and relief
- anxiety
- insomnia and sleep quality
- addiction cravings
- heart health
Not all strains contain the same concentration of CBD, with some containing little to none. Indica strains tend to have options with higher CBD concentration percentages compared to Sativa and Hybrid strains. CBD products available through the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) and our store locations include:
- flower including Indica, Sativa and Hybrid strains
- edibles including drinks and food (ex. soft chews)
- Extracts including oils, capsules, lozenges, etc.
- Topicals including lotions and creams
THC vs. CBD: Now You Know The Difference
After reading this post, we hope you have a better understanding of two of the most popular and important compounds in cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). One you know you can associate with a high and intoxicating effect, and the other you can associate with potential health benefits and an impact on the mind and body without intoxicating effects.
Stop by either of our cannabis stores located in Mississauga (Erin Mills) and Etobicoke (Rexdale) to view our options of products available to meet your needs for the amount of THC or CBD you prefer in your specific cannabis product of choice.
