CBD vs THC - What is the difference?
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between CBD and THC, but don’t worry, we'll explain the basic differences on this page. The main difference between CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is that CBD doesn’t induce a ‘high’ or bring about any of the symptoms associated with THC, such as red eyes, poor coordination, delayed reactions, and an increased appetite.
Both CBD and THC compounds are found within the cannabis plant, but in different amounts depending on the variety of plant. The hemp plant contains a very low amount of THC - lower than 0.2% - which means its use in the UK is completely legal. However, the marijuana plant has greater levels of THC and is largely illegal in the UK. Both plants generally contain a substantial amount of CBD, so it makes sense to use the hemp plant as it dramatically reduces the involvement of THC.
Looking at both substances at a molecular level, both CBD and THC have the same chemical makeup: twenty-one carbon atoms, thirty hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. However, what makes them different is all down to the arrangement of a single atom - a microscopic difference, but a very important one nonetheless!
When scientists began studying the Endocannabinoid System in the 1980s, they discovered two cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system which they classified as the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Many CB1 receptors are found in areas of the brain responsible for mental and physiological processes such as memory, cognition, emotion, and motor coordination, while CB2 receptors are found throughout the central nervous and immune systems.
The Legalities of CBD
Because of CBD’s often misunderstood associated with cannabis, the legal status of CBD products is very important too. In the UK, CBD and hemp products are legal to grow and market, whereas THC and marijuana are classified as class-B illegal drugs. Our Green Stem collection is strictly within the legal limits, so you have nothing to worry about when using our products.
Whilst CBD and THC share many similarities, the main difference between the two is that THC has mind-altering effects and is illegal in the UK, whilst CBD does not have a psychotropic effect and is completely legal. Many of the health benefits found in THC are also found in CBD, but CBD can be consumed without the risk of breaking the law or experiencing unpleasant side effects.
