CBD vs. THC: Understanding the Key Differences
The Cannabis Sativa plant naturally produces over 100 identified chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Among the most prevalent and highly sought after are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).
With the introduction of the 2018 Farm Bill (affecting hemp-derived CBD) and the widespread legalization and/or decriminalization of recreational and medical cannabis (rich in THC), the line between these two substances is more blurred than ever before.
This guide aims to help you understand the key differences between CBD and THC, from their chemical structures and makeup to their physiological effects and legal statuses.
What is CBD?
Discovered in the 1940s, cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most highly concentrated cannabinoid in cannabis. Present in both industrial hemp and cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive but capable of eliciting a wide range of physiological effects when consumed. Recently, CBD has skyrocketed in popularity, with the industry growing to more than $7.1 billion USD in the United States alone. Its use by the public is primarily as a wellness aid, with consumers reporting effects perceived as improving their quality of life.
What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is best known as the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is this cannabinoid responsible for the ‘high’ experienced when cannabis is consumed.
CBD vs. THC: Key Differences
Both CBD and THC affect the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps maintain homeostasis across multiple bodily systems and processes. Although both cannabinoids are structurally similar, they differ significantly in many regards.
CBD:
- Non-psychoactive: Does not elicit a ‘high’ or feelings of euphoria.
- Legal Status: Not a scheduled drug by the DEA; sourced from industrial hemp.
THC:
- Psychoactive: Produces a ‘high’ commonly associated with cannabis.
- Legal Status: A scheduled drug by the DEA; federally illegal in the United States and many other countries; sourced from cannabis.
Chemical Structures
Although both cannabinoids share the same molecular formula (C21H30O2), their chemical structures differ slightly, influencing their interaction with ECS receptors and resulting effects.
CBD:
- Molecular Weight: 314.469 g/mol
- IUPAC Name: 2-[(6R)-3-methyl-6-prop-1-en-2-ylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl]-5-pentylbenzene-1,3-diol
- CAS Registry Number: 13956-29-1
- Physical Appearance: Crystalline solid
THC:
- Molecular Weight: 314.5 g/mol
- IUPAC Name: 6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydrobenzo[c]chromen-1-ol
Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Discovered in 1992 by Raphael Mechoulam, Dr. Lumir Hanus, and William Devane, the ECS is responsible for regulating various immune, nervous, and cardiovascular system functions. Cannabinoids bind to ECS receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2 receptors), eliciting a myriad of physiological and neurochemical responses.
CBD:
- Receptor Affinity: Greater affinity for CB2 receptors and weak affinity for CB1 receptors.
- Effects: Non-psychoactive; influences various physiological processes without binding strongly to CB1 receptors.
THC:
- Receptor Affinity: High affinity for CB1 receptors, primarily in the brain.
- Effects: Psychoactive; binding to CB1 receptors produces the euphoric ‘high’ associated with THC.
Reported Effects and Side Effects
CBD:
- Common Benefits: Improved mood, better outlook on life, enhanced quality of life, reduced discomfort, relaxation, calmness, reduced stress, better sleep.
- Potential Side Effects: Drowsiness, slower reaction times, reduced energy, stomach discomfort, dry mouth, low blood pressure.
THC:
- Common Benefits: Mellowness, calmness, relaxation, ‘couch lock,’ heavy limbs, euphoria, enhanced mood.
- Potential Side Effects: Impaired motor skills, inability to focus, reduced cognitive capacity, poor short-term memory, paranoia, anxiety, dry mouth, high and low blood pressure, rapid heart rate.
Drug Testing
THC:
- Detection: Detectable on drug tests for 3-30+ days in urine, up to 90 days in hair, up to 36 hours in blood, and up to 48 hours in saliva.
CBD:
- Detection: CBD itself does not show up on drug tests. However, full-spectrum CBD products containing THC could potentially result in a positive test for cannabis use.
Legal Status
CBD:
- Legal Status: The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC. The FDA regulates CBD products, with significant restrictions on marketing as dietary supplements or food/beverage additives.
THC:
- Legal Status: Federally illegal under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. However, many states have decriminalized or legalized medical and recreational cannabis use within state borders.
Conclusion
Although chemically similar and naturally occurring in both cannabis and hemp, CBD and THC are distinctly different cannabinoids that influence our body’s endocannabinoid system in unique ways. Each has its own pros and cons, ranging from clinical research and use cases to legalization and effects. While THC is most commonly known for its psychoactive effects, CBD is considered a more approachable wellness aid used by millions of consumers seeking the benefits of cannabis without the ‘high’ of THC.
