The major cannabinoids:
The difference between CBD and THC

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How THC works

THC, whose scientific name is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a naturally occurring chemical compound (cannabinoid) in cannabis plants. It’s the main compound responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive and intoxicating effects.

THC acts on our endocannabinoid system

THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for several aspects of our health and well-being (weight control, body temperature, heart rate, etc.).

The system has two main components:

1. endocannabinoids, molecules naturally produced by the body, and
2. cannabinoid receptors, located in our central nervous system, brain, etc.

Endocannabinoids function a little like keys that fit into the receptors and unlock the transmission of messages between cells. Because it’s a cannabinoid, THC also fits into the receptors, temporarily replacing the body’s natural endocannabinoids and triggering a range of effects.

Potential effects

Products containing THC are responsible for most of the short and long-term psychoactive and physical effects sought by users, such as relaxation or even euphoria, the later usually described as being “stoned,” “high,” “baked” or “buzzed.”

Potential risks

THC poses certain health risks and can sometimes have undesirable short and long-term side effects on the body and mind.

Here’s a simple overview of the potential risks involved when using cannabis-based products that contain THC:

Various effects:

• THC can affect the body and mind in various and sometimes unpredictable ways.

Overdosing:

• Though rarely fatal, overdoses can often require medical treatment due to the occasionally intense and alarming effects.

Risks from regular use:

• Repeated use may affect memory and concentration and, in some cases, lead to more serious issues, such as breathing problems, cardiovascular disease and cannabis use disorder.

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How CBD works

Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in hemp and cannabis flowers. Unlike some other compounds, CBD alone does not trigger any intoxicating or euphoric effects. That said, while it may be considered unintoxicating, this compound could still influence the user’s experience. Our scientific understanding of CBD remains limited and does not allow us to accurately say what this influence is or how it works.

CBD acts on our endocannabinoid system

Like THC, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system. However, it does so in different ways.

As a reminder, the endocannabinoid system has two main components:

• endocannabinoids, molecules naturally produced by the body, and
• cannabinoid receptors, located in our central nervous system, brain, etc.

Endocannabinoids connect to the body’s cannabinoid receptors, facilitating communication between cells. Research suggests that CBD inhibits an enzyme responsible for regulating and eliminating excess endocannabinoids and stimulates the development of cannabinoid receptors, making the endocannabinoid system more receptive and efficient. However, research into CBD remains limited and it is currently impossible to say with any certainty what CBD’s effects on the user experience are.

Potential effects

In high doses, CBD may, for example, favour relaxation, cause drowsiness or instill a feeling of calm. It may also temper some of THC’s unpleasant effects, such as paranoia or anxiety. However, these claims cannot be proved with any certainty.¹ Ongoing research into the compound aims to gain a clearer understanding of its properties.

Potential risks

Even if CBD has few if any euphoric properties or intoxicating effects, it remains a psychoactive cannabinoid that can affect users’ psychological and cognitive functions.