THC vs CBD: What's the difference?

THC and CBD are both naturally found in cannabis plants but they both interact with the body in different ways and have different legal status, so it is important to know the difference.

THC

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive component of cannabis and in simple terms is the stuff in weed that gets you high. THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in your brain, which can result in feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and even heightened sensory perception.

THC isn't solely about getting stoned, it also has striking medical benefits. It’s been found helpful for conditions like chronic pain, nausea (often associated with chemotherapy), and even muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis. However, some effects of THC are less desirable as it can also trigger things like anxiety and paranoia in some people.

CBD

In contrast, CBD is associated with less obvious effects and typically evokes a sense of calm in the user. CBD products usually contain less than 0.2% THC meaning they are not regulated in the same way as more concentrated products and can often be found in everyday supermarkets in many countries around the world.

CBD has a wide range of therapeutic uses and is often used to treat stress, inflammation, anxiety. CBD has also been said to negate the negative effects of THC that some users experience when used in tandem. As CBD does not provide the same mind-altering effects as THC, it can provide a good alternative for those looking to test the waters with something more familiar than the unique "stoned" experience of high THC products.

Are THC and CBD legal in the UK?

In the UK, the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has been legal since 2018 under prescription. Today over 250,000 patients in the UK are being treated with high THC percentage cannabis. I have written another post about how you could your hands on legal cannabis in the UK here. CBD products, on the other hand, are widely available and have long been legal, provided they contain less than 0.2% THC.

Conclusion

THC = High + Medicinal Benefits (but watch out for anxiety and paranoia).
CBD = No High + Potential Therapeutic Benefits (without the psychoactive effects).
In the UK, medicinal cannabis is legal with a prescription, and CBD products are widely available.

THC and CBD are like two sides of the same coin, offering different experiences and benefits from the same plant. Whether you're exploring cannabis for medicinal purposes or just plain curious, THC and CBD should both be explored to find the right fit for your use case. Stay informed and stay safe!

THC vs CBD: What's the difference?

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