THC and CBD: What You Should Know

In the world of CBD, we often stumble across the term ‘THC’. It can be confusing to understand the distinction between these 2 compounds and why one of them is so praised, and the other is illegal! To understand the facts about THC and CBD, let’s first cover the basics:

What does CBD stand for? – Cannabidiol 

What does THC stand for? – Tetra-Hydro Cannabidiol

The Difference Between CBD and THC

CBD and THC both come from the Cannabis plant. However, the difference between CBD and THC plants does come into play. Plants with more CBD content are considered ‘hemp’ plants, whereas plants with more THC content are considered ‘marijuana’ plants. As a result, hemp is legal whereas marijuana is not. 

But why is CBD legal and THC illegal? The Honest Hemp team has got the answer! It’s because THC has powerful psychoactive properties, meaning it will cause you to get high. CBD, on the other hand, does not have any psychoactive properties. It’s completely safe, non-mind-altering, non-addictive, and may potentially provide many incredible health benefits. 

Does THC Get You High?

As we briefly mentioned above, yes – THC does get you high. It is usually consumed recreationally (and illegally in the UK) via smoking marijuana or consuming edibles that contain marijuana. The effects may include:

• Heightened senses
• Distorted perception of time
• Worsened motor skills
• Feeling relaxed or happy
• Feeling giggly or chatty
• Feeling paranoid or confused
• Experiencing delusions or mild hallucinations 

What are the Side Effects of THC?

Just like most drugs, THC can have some negative side effects. THC side effects may include an increased risk of lung cancer, asthma, and heart disease if you smoke marijuana. Many people use CBD products to reduce anxiety, but can THC increase anxiety? Yes, in some cases it can. Here are some other reasons that some people say why THC is bad for you: 

• May affect your motivation
• May impair your memory
• May give you mood swings or make you feel depressed
• May disturb your sleep
• May make you anxious, panicky, or aggressive

What About CBD?

You may find CBD oil and THC together in some products, but in the UK, this THC content must be below 0.3% in order to be legal. This amount of THC will not cause any of the effects mentioned previously. 

Alternatively, you can get CBD without THC for anxiety, sleep, pain, and other problems. CBD is completely safe, risk-free, and non-addictive. It is an entirely separate cannabinoid from THC, and therefore should not be associated with the negative effects of THC. 

You can shop for CBD products that are completely free from THC at Honest Hemp.