CBD is everywhere; oils, balms, cocktails, coffee, the list seems endless. However, recent studies reveal that the majority of Americans have never tried CBD. Further, most do not know the difference between CBD and THC.

We believe if more people better understand the differences between CBD and THC, then more people would be receptive to trying CBD recovery products and the opportunity to experience the health benefits associated with its use.

So what’s the difference? 

Historically THC has been synonymous with cannabis. Only in the last few decades that the benefits of other cannabinoids, like CBD, have been researched. Even though CBD comes from cannabis, it’s usually extracted from organic hemp which can be legally grown in the US as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. CBD is completely non-psychoactive and is taken for a range of therapeutic benefits.

THC and CBD are both cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, but they’re different in many ways.

THC is the cannabinoid that gets you high. It’s mostly found in marijuana - which is classed as a cannabis plant with more than 0.3% THC. The important distinction is that, unlike THC, CBD will not intoxicate you. It also addresses one of the most common reasons people choose to use CBD - pain management. An easy way to think about the distinction is that THC is defined by what cannabis makes you feel, while the effects of CBD can’t be felt.

However, this does not mean that CBD, by itself, cannot offer an effect. High doses of CBD often produce a profoundly relaxing experience. Like stepping out of a hot tub, your body may feel tingly and relaxed, and your brain may be clear.

Health benefits:

There are many health benefits associated with taking quality CBD. CBD connects to your body’s cannabinoid receptors, and people report that CBD helps with complex problems like arthritis, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and cancer treatment. Others use it to treat more mild everyday issues like skin health, sleep, anxiety, general pain, and brain health. 

There are many ways to take CBD. CBD is available in capsules, oil tinctures, balms, and edibles (like the ones you see on our website).

Side effects: 

CBD rarely exhibits any noticeable side effects. The World Health Organization has said in its research that, “CBD was tolerated in all patients, with no signs of toxicity or serious side effects.”

If side effects were detected, it was usually a result of CBD interacting with another drug the person took at the same time. On the other hand, THC has some well-known side effects such as increased heart rate, coordination problems, dry mouth, red eyes, slower reaction time, and memory loss. These side effects are associated with the compound’s psychoactive properties.  

Does CBD contain THC?

As general rule “Full-Spectrum” CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, up to 0.3 percent. Although almost negligible and such a small amount would never be enough to cause any of the psychoactive side effects. For those who do not want any trace of THC, many products are made with “Broad Spectrum” CBD, in which all THC has been completely removed.

To conclude, CBD and THC are derived from the same cannabis plant. But the two compounds have distinct properties that separate them from one another. THC is associated with the "high feeling" or psychoactive effects, and CBD is more well known for its health benefits. Before using any cannabis-derived product, be sure to check with your doctor and consider how these will affect other medications you are already taking.