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If you’re new to cannabis, you’ve probably noticed two letters appearing on almost every product label:
THC.
CBD.
These are two of the best-known cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they aren’t the same.
Understanding the difference between THC and CBD can make it easier to read product labels, compare products, and make more informed purchasing decisions.
Let’s break down the basics.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis.
Cannabis contains many different cannabinoids, but THC and CBD are among the most commonly discussed.
Different cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways, and cannabis products can contain varying combinations and concentrations of these compounds.
That’s why looking beyond the product name can be useful when comparing cannabis products.
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol.
When people talk about the intoxicating effects of cannabis, they’re usually referring primarily to THC.
THC can produce effects such as:
Because THC can impair coordination and judgment, consuming THC can affect activities such as driving.
Never drive or operate machinery while impaired.
CBD stands for cannabidiol.
CBD is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis.
Unlike THC, CBD is not generally intoxicating and doesn’t produce the same type of high commonly associated with THC.
CBD products can be found in many different formats and may contain CBD by itself or alongside THC.
A simple way to remember the distinction is:
However, the effects of a cannabis product aren’t determined by THC or CBD alone.
If you’ve browsed cannabis flower, you’ve probably seen numbers such as:
18% THC
22% THC
27% THC
This percentage represents the concentration of THC in the product.
A higher percentage generally means a greater concentration of THC, but that doesn’t automatically mean the product will be a better choice for everyone.
Other factors matter too.
Product labels can contain several cannabinoid measurements.
You may see:
These measurements can sometimes be confusing.
THCA is a cannabinoid that can convert into THC when exposed to heat.
Because of this, cannabis flower may contain a significant amount of THCA even when the amount of active THC listed separately is lower.
When comparing products, read the entire cannabinoid section rather than focusing on a single number.
Some products contain both THC and CBD.
You may see descriptions such as:
1:1 THC:CBD
This generally indicates a product containing comparable amounts of THC and CBD.
Other products may have a higher THC concentration relative to CBD, or vice versa.
The cannabinoid ratio can be useful information when comparing products.
Does More THC Mean Better Cannabis?
Not necessarily.
It’s easy to assume that a product with the highest THC percentage must automatically be the best option.
But cannabis experiences are more complicated than a single number.
Two products with similar THC percentages can still differ in:
For some consumers, extremely high-potency products may not be desirable.
The best product is the one that fits the individual’s preferences, experience, and intended use.
What Are Terpenes?
If you’ve looked at cannabis products, you’ve probably also seen the word terpenes.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis.
They contribute to the smell and flavor of cannabis.
Different cannabis varieties can contain different terpene profiles, which is one reason products can smell and taste very different from one another.
Some commonly discussed cannabis terpenes include:
Terpenes don’t determine a product’s effects by themselves, but they are an important part of the overall characteristics of cannabis.
Understanding Edible Labels
Edibles require particular attention to the label.
An edible package might contain a certain total amount of THC, but that amount may be divided into multiple servings.
For example, a package could contain:
100 mg total THC
with:
10 servings × 10 mg THC
Those are very different numbers when considering an individual serving.
Always check both:
Total THC per package
and
THC per serving.
If you’re new to edibles, follow the product’s labeled serving instructions and avoid taking additional servings simply because you don’t feel effects immediately.
Edible effects can take longer to appear than inhaled cannabis.
Start Low and Go Slow
If you’re inexperienced with cannabis, potency deserves attention.
Everyone responds differently, and factors such as tolerance, product type, consumption method, and individual physiology can influence the experience.
For products such as edibles, it can take significantly longer for effects to become noticeable.
Following the labeled serving information and giving the product adequate time before consuming more can help avoid accidentally consuming more than intended.
Cannabis Can Affect Everyone Differently
There’s no universal cannabis experience.
One person might describe a product as relaxing, while another person may have a very different experience.
Your response can be influenced by factors including:
That’s why responsible consumption and paying attention to product labeling are important.
Read the Entire Product Label
Before purchasing or consuming a cannabis product, look beyond the front of the package.
Check for:
The more familiar you become with these details, the easier it becomes to compare products.
Choosing Between THC, CBD, or Both
So, should you choose THC, CBD, or a combination?
There’s no single answer.
It depends on what type of product you’re interested in, your experience level, your personal preferences, and the product’s labeled characteristics.
If you’re unsure, speak with the dispensary team.
They can help explain the differences between products and point you toward options that match what you’re looking for.
Knowledge Makes Shopping Easier
Understanding THC and CBD doesn’t mean you need to become a cannabis expert overnight.
Start with the basics.
Know what THC and CBD are. Learn how to read potency and serving information. Pay attention to product type and ingredients. And don’t hesitate to ask questions.
The more comfortable you become with cannabis terminology, the easier it becomes to make informed decisions.
At The Joint, we’re here to help you understand your options.
Whether you’re exploring cannabis for the first time or already know what you like, take your time, read the label, ask questions, and choose products that fit your preferences.
Browse our selection and visit The Joint to learn more about your options.
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