As the CBD movement begins to gather global momentum, we think that it is important to provide customers with direct, detailed and accessible information.
Across many of our blog posts we debunk specialist language, explain confusing acronyms and simplify CBD. Sounds good?
We’ll be explaining what exactly THC is, how it differs from CBD and, most importantly, what does that mean for your CBD products?
What is THC? Plant based facts.
Short for cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD and THC are two naturally occurring substances that derive from the same plant.
Just two of over 113 known cannabinoids and 540 others substances, they can be located within the Cannabis Sativa plant (more commonly referred to as cannabis).
So far so good? Try this: it is more common for CBD to be found in hemp (a specific breed of Cannabis Sativa) while cannabis contains a higher concentration of THC.
Whilst this may seem confusing - hemp and cannabis are simply variations of the same plant, bred for different purposes.
So, are CBD and THC the same thing then?
Very similar but not the same.
Whilst they both boast the exact same molecular structure, these two substances have some significant differences.
With 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms and 2 oxygen atoms, both cannabinoids interact with your body’s natural endocannabinoid system.
However, because their atoms are arranged differently, they interact with the body in different ways and create different effects.
Is THC legal? Psychoactivity in THC
If both substances are so similar, why is THC illegal when CBD isn’t?
The biggest difference between the two substances is THC’s psychoactive effect. It works by stimulating cells that interact with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system so that their receptors release dopamine.
Inducing a ‘high’ feeling, this psychoactive element accounts for cannabis’ widely renowned addictive properties and is therefore responsible for its prohibition in certain countries.
It is important to understand that CBD does not possess any psychoactive properties, and thus, cannot create a ‘high’. Whilst CBD may promote mental and physical balance, it does so without the mind-altering effects of THC. For this reason, CBD remains legal and incredibly popular across the globe.
Why is THC important to CBD?
In order to legally sell CBD products in the UK, they must be THC-free.
Considering the stigma, misinformation and misconceptions surrounding CBD usage, it is important for retailers to communicate that their products are THC-free within their descriptions.
Needless to say, CBD Oils UK is the UK’s most trusted CBD retailer.
Every product is infused with premium CBD and is third-party laboratory tested to ensure that they are all THC-free guaranteed.
If you’re interested in learning more about the world of CBD, why not check out our ‘CBD Made Simple’ series where we aim to answer all of your most frequently asked questions.