THC vs. CBD: Which One Is Right for You?
Key Takeaways
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Intro
Are you curious about cannabis but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone!
So many people are interested in exploring cannabis products, but they give up because they get lost in the maze of cannabis lingo; CBD, THC, CBG, vapes, tinctures, and more.
Don’t give up! I’m here to make it easy for you.
The very first thing you need to understand when it comes to using cannabis is the difference between CBD and THC.
In this article, I will break it down in simple terms so you can make an informed decision on which one (or both!) is right for you, and how to use each one for maximum benefits.
When you’re done reading, grab your very own Beginner’s Cannabis Glossary to learn even more. It’s 10 pages full of the most commonly used cannabis terms, with color pictures and clear descriptions:
THC vs. CBD: What’s the Difference?
Letās start with the basics.
Both THC and CBD are natural compounds made by the flowers of the cannabis plant. Cannabis makes hundreds of active compounds that work together to provide medicinal benefits. THC and CBD are the most abundant.
Both CBD and THC are natural, both are healing, both are versatile and can be used many ways.
But they have different effects.
What is THC?
THC is short for “tetrahydrocannabinol,” a scientific name based on its chemical structure.
THC is the compound in cannabis that makes you feel āhigh.ā
THC is great for pain relief, stress relief, and a mood boost, and is typically taken as-needed.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for “cannabidiol,” a scientific name based on its chemical structure.
CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it won’t make you feel high.
CBD is often used to support mental and physical health, and is typically taken as a daily supplement.
THC vs. CBD: How Will They Make You Feel?
Both CBD and THC are great for pain relief and reducing inflammation, but they also have their own unique strengths.
This chart walks you through the different ways CBD vs THC make you feel, and will help you decide when you should reach for one vs. the other.
Keep in mind CBD takes a little time to build up in your system before you feel its maximum benefits, while THC can be felt right away.
When Should I Use CBD vs. THC?
Even though there is a lot of overlap in what CBD does versus what THC does, the most important distinction for most people is that THC will make you feel high and CBD won’t.
That usually gives you an idea of when you would want to use each one.
I like to think of THC and CBD as sisters, closely related but with distinct personalities.
You might want to hang out with the “calm sister” (CBD) when you’re studying for an exam or finishing a project for work.
Then you may want to hang out with the “fun sister” (THC) when your work is done, you’re watching a movie, and want to be with someone who makes you laugh.
The Science: How Do CBD and THC Work in the Body?
Both THC and CBD interact with your bodyās Endocannabinoid (END-o-ca-NA-bi-noid) System (ECS). The ECS is found in all mammals, and is a “master control system” over many other bodily systems.
Your ECS works like a thermostat, turning up or down the intensity of the signals of the other systems, helping regulate key functions like mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.
The ECS molecules made by your body are nearly identical to the THC and CBD molecules made by the cannabis plant, which is why cannabis works seamlessly in your body.
CBD and THC interact with the ECS in slightly different ways, in different parts of the body.
For more info on how THC and CBD interact with your body, check out my article, Why Does Cannabis Work? Introducing Your Endocannabinoid System.
How to Take THC and CBD
Both THC and CBD come in a wide variety of forms, so you can take it any way you want!
Here is a great list of articles I’ve written about different ways to take THC and CBD that will help you get started:
THC Gummies for Beginners (PLEASE read this before you take THC edibles for the first time!)
How to Take CBD Oil Like a Pro
5 Easy Ways to Use Cannabis Without Smoking
All About Cannabis Vapes: How to Choose and Use the Perfect Vape
My Favorite CBD Products for Beginners
HealerCBD Drops
One of the only doctor-formulated CBD products on the market, HealerCBD is top-quality CBD oil. It’s more effective than other oils in smaller doses, which saves you money.
MedTerra Calm CBD Gummies
Designed for daily use and balanced calm. With 25mg Broad Spectrum CBD and 125mg L-Theanine, these gummies help you face the ups and downs of daily life with ease .
Tonic Zone CBD vape
Woman-owned CBD brand Tonic is known for high quality. Their Zone CBD vape is a fast-acting solution for calm, clarity and balance, and is THC-free.
My Favorite THC Products for Beginners
Cann Blood Orange Cardamom THC Seltzer
Industry leader Cann provides consistent quality and delicious flavors like this Blood Orange Cardamom. At 2mg THC + 4mg CBD, Cann are intentionally low-dose so you can chill awhile.
Wyld Sour Apple THC Gummies
With 2mg THC and 10mg each CBD and CBG, these delicious gummies from Wyld provide a low-dose, balanced feeling. They’re third-party tested and made with real fruit, and offer an uplifting experience.
Five Daily Citrus THC + CBD Drops
Drop this THC tincture under your tongue, or drop it into any beverage to make your own THC-infused creation. These drops are a sweet citrus microdose for any occasion.
Tips for New Users
Conclusion
That wasn’t so bad, was it? š
Now you understand what THC is, what CBD is, how they’re the same and how they’re different.
Your next steps:
Want to Learn More?
Download my free eBook: “Beginner’s Cannabis Glossary” for in-depth information about THC, CBD, and the rest of the most commonly used cannabis terms.
