The popularity of CBD products are sweeping the nation, becoming a key part of many people’s wellness routine. Because the use of CBD hasn’t quite hit the mainstream yet, there are some people that confuse CBD with THC which is the compound that makes you high. In this blog we’ll talk about the differences between CBD and THC and why CBD is a great choice to improve your wellness. 

CBD vs THC

CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. It’s thought that CBD interacts with our body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of cells and receptors within our body, responsible for regulating internal homeostasis. CBD may help to aid this balance, and as a result, many have reported experiencing reduced feelings of stress and anxiety, better sleep, and soothed pain and inflammation after using it.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is another natural component found in the hemp plant, but it has different effects to CBD. THC is a psychoactive compound that typically leads to high feelings when consumed. However, it is not to be confused with CBD. THC binds with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, producing a high or sense of euphoria. CBD, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and therefore cannot get you high.

Why do people think CBD gets you high?

While both CBD and THC are from the same family, CBD is more commonly extracted from the hemp plant and in the UK, CBD can only be sold if  it is extracted from hemp. The cannabis and hemp plant are from the same species, however, there is much more CBD in hemp and more THC in cannabis. The immediate association with the term ‘cannabis’ and its links to the drug form is why people may think CBD can create a high.

Does CBD get you high?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning CBD cannot make users high. Once extracted from the hemp plant, CBD is added to a variety of products and may provide certain benefits for users. These CBD-infused items are often promoted as a natural way to relax or 'reduce anxiety'. However, this is not associated with the same feelings that occur from the THC compound.

The effects of CBD vs THC

CBD and THC have similar medicinal benefits and can provide relief from the same conditions. However, CBD does not cause euphoria. Some studies have shown it may help to 'reduce symptoms of anxiety', improve 'quality of sleep' and 'provide relief from pain'. Another reported effect from usage is a sense of equilibrium, experienced as either a soothing calm or an energy boost, which is why some people use CBD products in the morning to improve their day.

THC can cause hallucinations, a change in thinking, and sometimes an increased appetite. People also tend to feel euphoric. Side effects include increased high heart rate, nausea, memory loss, slower reaction times and red eyes.

Is it legal to use CBD? 

CBD is completely legal to use, as long as products meet specific standards to be bought and sold in the UK. In 2016, the MHRA (Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) stated that products containing cannabidiol (CBD) can be listed as medicine if used for medical purposes. However, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 states that use of THC and its inclusion in any CBD product is strictly prohibited.

What next? 

So, now you should have a better understanding of what exactly CBD is and why it should not be confused with other substances that give you a high. To summarise, CBD cannot give you a high when used, but it has the potential to give you rewarding health benefits when included in your daily wellness routine. Try it for yourself and let us know how you get on!