When most people think of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, they think of the intoxicating effects of marijuana but there is so much more. In this guide, we explain:
- What is THC?
- How does it work and what are the effects of THC?
- What is the difference between THC and CBD?
- Where can you find THC?
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol sometimes also known as THC or Delta-9-THC is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and is usually credited with the attributed to the intoxicating effect that one feels when consuming marijuana. Without question, it is one of the cannabinoids that contribute to the entourage effect - the belief that all the cannabinoids in marijuana work together to produce the effect.
How does it work and what are the effects of THC?
Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system contains a number of cannabinoid receptors as well as lipids and enzymes that help the body stay in balance. These receptors are known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mainly located in the central nervous system and they respond when THC binds to them by producing the psychoactive effects that cannabis users experience.
The effects of THC depend on a variety of factors, but primarily on the users themselves . Everyone experiences the effects of THC differently. This is especially true when consuming marijuana flowers, which contain terpenes and other cannabinoids contain. While certain strains of cannabis can be associated with specific effects, the effects of THC always depend on how the body reacts to a marijuana product that contains THC. Overall, marijuana products can alter the senses, alter mood, and affect memory and body movement.
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
The most obvious difference between these two cannabinoids is that THC is generally associated with a psychoactive reaction in the body and CBD is not. There is also evidence that CBD, when taken together with THC, can minimize the intoxicating effects of THC.
Curious about CBD? Check out our guide "What is CBD?".
Where can you find THC?
In US states with recreational or medical cannabis programs, THC is found in a variety of cannabis products available at licensed dispensaries. These products include premium flower, concentrates, popcorn, edibles, shakes, and more. However, the THC-containing products mentioned above are not legal in most European countries and are therefore not available.
Disclaimer
It is important that you are aware that we make no medical claims. The content of this site is for informational and educational purposes only. The information we provide comes from various research papers, scientific articles and research we have compiled from external sources. Please note that legislation varies from country to country. For this reason, we recommend that you always inform yourself about the local laws in your home country.