Cannabis has been used medicinally for thousands of years, but modern research is only beginning to uncover the full scope of therapeutic and medicinal benefits these cannabinoids provide.
Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, stress, anxiety, general depression, insomnia, and other sleep disorders, or just want to support your general health and wellness goals, understanding the differences between CBD and THC can help you make an informed choice.
Out of 483 chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, some 144 of these compounds are classified as cannabinoids.
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two most famous, most abundant, and most researched compounds of the cannabis sativa plant.
Both interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in humans and mammals. Each affects our health and wellness in different ways.
Quick Comparison: CBD vs. THC
| Feature | CBD (Cannabidiol) | THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) |
| Psychoactive? | ❌ No (non-intoxicating) | ✅ Yes (Produces a “high”) |
| Legal Statues | ✅Legal in all 50 U.S. States | 🚫 Legal in 38 U.S. States * |
| Common Benefits | Anxiety relief, pain management, anti-inflammatory, sleep aid | Pain relief, appetite stimulation, relaxation, euphoria |
| Side Effects | Minimal (dry mouth, drowsiness in high doses) | Potential paranoia, dizziness, increased heart rate |
| Best For | Daily wellness, stress relief, chronic pain, sleep | Pain relief, nausea, appetite loss, recreational use * |
CBD vs. THC: The Basic Differences
THC provides many therapeutic benefits but it is psychoactive and is famously enjoyed by millions of recreational users because of the intoxicating high it produces. Fairly or not, these people are labeled by society as “stoners”.
CBD is non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating. It does not get you high. Products rich in CBD are used by general consumers who seek natural remedies for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, stress, sleep disorders, and other health ailments without having to resort to prescription medications.
CBD consumers are “non-stoners”, meaning they have no interest in getting high at all.
In this short guide, you will learn the differences between CBD vs. THC, their therapeutic benefits, potential side effects, their current legality, and which one is right for you.
What is CBD?
CBD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp and marijuana plants, both of which come from the cannabis sativa plant.
It’s widely recognized for its therapeutic properties without causing consumers to get high. CBD interacts indirectly with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, promoting balance in the body without altering perception or cognition.
Key Benefits of CBD (Backed by Science)
✅ Relieves Stress & Anxiety – Research shows that CBD can reduce anxiety by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain (Blessing et al., 2015). Many people use it for daily stress management and conditions like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and PTSD.
✅ Reduces Chronic Pain & Inflammation – Studies suggest CBD may reduce inflammation by interacting with the body’s immune response (Burstein, 2015). It’s particularly effective for arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.
✅ Supports Better Sleep – CBD helps regulate sleep cycles by interacting with the body’s natural rhythms (Babson et al., 2017). Many people find it useful for combating insomnia without morning grogginess.
✅ No High or Intoxication – Unlike THC, CBD does not cause intoxicating euphoric high, making it ideal for those who want health benefits without altered mental states.
What is THC?
THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the well-known euphoric effects – that famous “stoner” high – associated with marijuana.
However, THC’s benefits extend beyond just getting high—it’s widely used for pain relief, relaxation, and appetite stimulation.
Key Benefits of THC (Backed by Science)
✅Powerful Pain Relief – THC is highly effective for managing chronic pain, especially in conditions like multiple sclerosis, cancer, and neuropathy (Russo, 2008). Many patients report it works better than opioids with fewer side effects.
✅Stimulates Appetite & Reduces Nausea – THC is often prescribed to cancer and HIV/AIDS patients to combat nausea and appetite loss (Whiting et al., 2015). It’s a popular treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and wasting syndrome.
✅Aids Relaxation & Mood Enhancement – THC interacts with dopamine and serotonin receptors, leading to euphoria, relaxation, and an overall positive mood boost (Bloomfield et al., 2016).
✅May Enhance Creativity – Some users report increased creative thinking and problem-solving skills while using THC, likely due to its impact on cognitive flexibility (Schafer et al., 2012).
CBD vs. THC: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between CBD and THC depends on your specific needs and preferences, but there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Everyone’s body reacts differently, so finding the right product often requires some exploration and experimentation.
Some people respond better to pure CBD, while others may need a mix of both CBD and THC for optimal results.
Factors like your wellness goals, tolerance, and even state laws will play a role in what works best for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Choose CBD if:
✅ You want health benefits without the high
✅ You need daily stress & anxiety relief
✅ You are sensitive to THC or live in a state where THC is illegal
✅ You need to stay clear-headed and functional while using it
Choose THC if:
✅ You need strong pain relief or appetite stimulation
✅ You’re looking for recreational relaxation or euphoria
✅ You live in a state where THC is legally available
✅ You need immediate relief for symptoms like nausea or severe pain
Best of Both? Try Combining CBD & THC
Many people find that a combination of CBD and THC creates an “entourage effect,” where the cannabinoids work synergistically for enhanced benefits.
Full-spectrum CBD products often contain small amounts of THC to provide a balanced effect without being overwhelmingly psychoactive (Russo, 2011).
Is CBD or THC Legal?
With the passage of the 2018 Hemp Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives were removed from the definition of the Controlled Substances Act. This made industrial hemp legal in all 50 states of the United States of America.
CBD:
✅ Federally legal in the U.S. if derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC (2018 Farm Bill).
✅ Not FDA-approved as a supplement, but widely available in various forms.
✅ Legal status varies by state, so check local regulations before purchasing.
While legal in all 50 states, you must still consider some things. While America has a national government with federal laws, each state possesses sovereignty.
Beyond the state level, local governments such as cities, townships, and valleys also issue local laws and ordinances.
So, even if you are in a state where hemp is legal, you must be aware of the laws and ordinances of any cities or towns you may travel to or through.
So, what’s the bottom line of the current legal status of hemp-derived products?
Hemp is legal in all 50 states on the federal level but still not so well received on the state and local government levels.
Be aware as you travel. Law enforcement agencies at all levels of government are still trying to figure out how to tell the difference between hemp and marijuana.
THC:
✅ Illegal federally, classified as a Schedule I drug.
✅ Legal for medical or recreational use in many states.
✅ Some states allow only low-THC cannabis products for medical patients.
Medical marijuana is available in 38 states and the District of Columbia – home to the capital of the United States of America (Washington, D.C.) and home to the residence of POTUS (President of the United States).
Recreational marijuana is currently available in 29 states. In medical marijuana states, a medical card is required with the consent of a doctor.
In states that allow recreational sales, no medical card is needed to purchase non-medical marijuana products.
Best Legal Alternative? CBD + Delta-8 THC
Hemp-derived Delta-8 THC is a mild psychoactive cannabinoid that is legal in many states where traditional THC is not.
Delta-8 THC provides a smoother high with fewer side effects like paranoia or anxiety, making it an appealing middle-ground option for those in non-marijuana states.
CBD vs. THC: Common Myths & FAQs
Can CBD get you high?
No. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not cause a high. Even full-spectrum CBD, which contains trace THC, is unlikely to be intoxicating at normal doses.
Is THC stronger than CBD?
THC is stronger in terms of psychoactive effects, but CBD offers long-term wellness benefits without intoxication.
Will CBD show up on a drug test?
Pure CBD (isolate) won’t show up, but full-spectrum CBD may contain trace amounts of THC that could trigger a positive test.
Which is better for sleep: CBD or THC?
✅ CBD: Helps relax the body and regulate sleep cycles naturally.
✅ THC: Helps people fall asleep faster but may cause grogginess in the morning.
Which is better for pain: CBD or THC?
✅ CBD: Best for inflammation & chronic pain management.
✅ THC: Best for severe pain relief & nerve pain.
✅ Want both? Try full-spectrum CBD for a balanced blend of CBD & THC.
Final Verdict: CBD or THC?
Choosing between CBD and THC depends on your needs. Here’s some general guidance to help you decide:
✅ For daily wellness & no high: Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
✅ For pain relief & stronger effects: THC-Infused Gummies
✅ For sleep & stress relief: CBD + Melatonin Gummies
Dosage Tips
Whatever you choose, go slow and always start with a low dose. Increase your dosages in small increments. Track your results in a journal. Adjust accordingly until you find the perfect dosage for you.
If you’re thinking of using cannabis products for medical conditions, always consult with your primary healthcare professional first.
References:
- Babson, K. A., Sottile, J., & Morabito, D. (2017). Cannabis, cannabinoids, and sleep: a review of the literature.
- Bloomfield, M. A., et al. (2016). The effects of THC on the dopamine system.
- Blessing, E. M., et al. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders.
- Burstein, S. (2015). Cannabidiol (CBD) and its analogs: a review of their effects on inflammation.
- Russo, E. B. (2008). Cannabinoids in the management of difficult-to-treat pain.
- Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects.
- Whiting, P. F., et al. (2015). Cannabinoids for medical use: a systematic review and meta-analysis.