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If you’ve ever stepped into a dispensary or browsed cannabis products online, you’ve probably come across the terms THC and CBD. These are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant—and while they come from the same source, they work very differently in your body.
In this post, we’ll break down what THC and CBD are, how they affect you, and which cannabis strains are known for high levels of each. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing high or simply some stress relief without the buzz, understanding THC vs. CBD can help you make more informed choices.
What Is THC?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. In simple terms, THC is what gets you high. It binds to receptors in the brain (specifically the CB1 receptors) and alters your perception, mood, and cognition.
Effects of THC:
Euphoria or a “high” feeling
Increased appetite (aka “the munchies”)
Altered sense of time
Dry mouth and red eyes
In some cases, anxiety or paranoia (especially at high doses)
THC is often used recreationally, but it also has medical uses, such as pain relief, nausea reduction, and sleep aid.
Strains High in THC:
Sour Diesel – Energizing and uplifting with a pungent, diesel-like aroma.
Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) – A balanced hybrid known for its relaxing and euphoric effects.
Gorilla Glue #4 (GG4) – Strong and sedative, often used for chronic pain and stress.
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What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis. That means it doesn’t get you high, but it does interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system in other ways, mostly through the CB2 receptors found in the immune system and peripheral organs.
Effects of CBD:
Calm and relaxation without the high
Reduced anxiety and stress
Anti-inflammatory benefits
May help with seizures and epilepsy (FDA-approved for some cases)
Mild pain relief
CBD is a favorite among people who want the wellness benefits of cannabis without the intoxicating effects of THC.
Strains High in CBD:
ACDC – Almost no THC, very calming and great for anxiety or pain relief.
Charlotte’s Web – Famous for its role in treating childhood epilepsy, high in CBD and low in THC.
Harlequin – A balanced strain with a 5:2 ratio of CBD to THC, offering gentle relief with minimal intoxication.
THC vs. CBD: The Main Differences
| Feature | THC | CBD |
|---|---|---|
| Psychoactive? | Yes (gets you high) | No (does not get you high) |
| Common Uses | Pain, insomnia, appetite, recreation | Anxiety, inflammation, seizures |
| Side Effects | Dry mouth, red eyes, paranoia | Fatigue, dry mouth, lightheadedness |
| Legality (USA) | Legal in some states | Legal federally (from hemp) |
Can You Combine THC and CBD?
Absolutely. Many cannabis products—and strains—combine both THC and CBD to create what’s called the “entourage effect.” This is the idea that cannabinoids work better together than alone. For example, some people find that CBD helps reduce the anxiety or paranoia that can come with high doses of THC.
Balanced strains like Cannatonic or Pennywise offer a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, providing mild psychoactive effects with enhanced therapeutic benefits.
How to Choose What’s Best for You
Your choice depends on what you’re looking for:
Want to relax and feel euphoric? Try a high-THC strain like Blue Dream or OG Kush.
Looking for stress relief without a high? Go for a CBD-rich strain like Charlotte’s Web.
Need something in-between? Try a balanced hybrid like Harlequin or Cannatonic.
Also, consider your tolerance level, your goals, and whether you’re using cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes.
THC and CBD both offer unique effects and benefits, and one isn’t better than the other—it just depends on your needs. Understanding the differences between these two cannabinoids is the first step in choosing the right product or strain for your body and lifestyle.
Always start low and go slow, especially if you’re new to cannabis. And if you’re ever unsure, talk to a budtender or medical professional who can help guide you based on your experience and goals.