THC and CBD are the two most talked-about compounds in cannabis. Both are cannabinoids, both interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, and both show up on dispensary labels — but they do very different things.

What is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis — it’s what produces the “high.” It’s associated with euphoria, relaxation, appetite stimulation, and altered perception. Higher-THC products produce stronger intoxicating effects.

What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating — it won’t get you high. Many people use it for a sense of calm and general wellness. Because it doesn’t impair, CBD-forward products appeal to people who want cannabis’s effects without the buzz.

Key differences at a glance

Property	THC	CBD
Psychoactive?	Yes	No
Common use	Euphoria, sleep, appetite	Calm, wellness
Best time	When you want effects	Any time

The entourage effect

THC and CBD are often used together. CBD is thought to “soften” some of THC’s more intense effects (like anxiety or racing thoughts) for some people. This teamwork — cannabinoids and terpenes working in combination — is called the entourage effect.

Understanding THC:CBD ratios

Products are often labeled with a ratio, such as 1:1 or 20:1 (THC:CBD):

High THC (e.g., 20:1 THC:CBD): strong high, best for experienced users.
Balanced (1:1): mild high with CBD’s calming balance — great for beginners.
High CBD (e.g., 1:20 THC:CBD): minimal to no high, wellness-focused.

Which should you choose?

New to cannabis? Start with a balanced or CBD-forward product and a low dose.
Want to relax without impairment? Choose high-CBD products.
Want classic cannabis effects? Choose THC-forward products, but start low and go slow.

Whatever you choose, buy from a licensed source so labels are accurate and tested. Browse verified dispensaries to compare products.