Many cannabinoids (biological compounds that engage with the body’s endocannabinoid system) exist within the cannabis plant, the best-known of which are THC and CBD. Whereas the euphoric effects of THC are sought after by many, some people find that it induces anxiety instead — and research suggests that CBD may help people feel less anxious.
That’s just one way combining THC and CBD may influence your sesh. Keep reading to learn how these cannabinoids work together to influence your whole experience.
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis, often at lower levels than THC. It’s non-intoxicating, meaning it won’t get you high.
What is THC?
THC is the most abundant cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. It’s also the main driver behind cannabis’ psychoactive effects since it activates the CB1 receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It’s famous for that cerebral “stoned” feeling.
The 5 key differences between THC and CBD
THC and CBD are both significant players in the cannabis world with distinct traits. Some key differences between the two include:
- Psychoactivity
THC works by activating the receptors in the endocannabinoid system, resulting in intoxicating effects. CBD is believed to modulate these receptors and not result in intoxication.
- Fewer “side effects”
Since CBD won’t get you high, it doesn’t carry the same risks as THC when it comes to impairment or potentially triggering anxiety if you take too much. CBD is generally well-tolerated with few if any, unwanted side effects.
- Endocannabinoid system interactions
Another difference is how THC and CBD themselves interact with your endocannabinoid system. THC has been observed to bind to a set of receptors in the ECS called CB1 receptors. CBD does not bind to CB1 receptors or another set of receptors, CB2, in the same way.
This difference stems from each cannabinoid’s molecular structure. Both cannabinoids have 21 carbon atoms, two oxygen atoms, and 30 hydrogen atoms per molecule. The variations in how these atoms are arranged in each cannabinoid explain why THC binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors but CBD doesn’t.
- Legal status
In New Jersey, both THC and CBD are legal, though there are limits on how much THC you can buy in one shopping trip.
- Drug testing results
Many institutions that request drug testing only scan for THC. However, some full-spectrum CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC. As such, THC and CBD differ in drug testing results only for people who use a broad-spectrum or THC-free CBD product. Use caution with any THC or CBD product if you know if you have to take a drug test.
The benefits of THC and CBD working together
Some potential benefits of THC and CBD working together include:
- Enhanced pain relief: The combination of THC and CBD may offer more pronounced management of chronic pain compared to products that contain only THC or only CBD.
- Balanced mood: The intoxicating effects of THC are evened out by the calming properties of CBD.
- Increased therapeutic potential: The synergistic interaction between THC and CBD may enhance their overall therapeutic benefits, providing a more comprehensive approach to managing various symptoms.
What the research says about THC and CBD in combination
Research into the entourage effect in general and THC and CBD in combination specifically is ongoing and sometimes conflicting. As a result, the studies listed below don’t always line up with one another. Still, each contributes important insight into how cannabinoids affect us and work together.
- CBD may lessen certain THC side effects: If you’re prone to anxiety, CBD with your THC may be a good idea. CBD is believed to dampen THC’s impact on your brain and body, so your experience is less intense and more mellow and pleasant. Although the previously mentioned Johns Hopkins Study found that THC’s effects may worsen in the presence of high levels of CBD, these results cut against the conclusions of some previous studies and anecdotal evidence. It goes to show the importance of continued cannabis research.
- THC and CBD in combination may improve pain management: Some of the most substantial evidence surrounding THC and CBD in combination suggests the two are more effective for pain management than either on their own. Combining THC and CBD may offer an effective method for managing pain, including chronic pain such as neuropathy.
- CBD may reduce THC impact on motor skills and memory: Some studies in humans and animals have suggested that CBD may mitigate the adverse effects of THC on motor skills and memory. However, the authors of the literary review summarizing those results noted that much more research is needed to understand the mechanisms of action by which this could occur.
As researchers learn more about how THC and CBD work together, it will improve our ability to determine which cannabis products will be most effective for particular use cases. In the meantime, keeping track of the products you’ve tried and the full spectrum of compounds within each is the best way to gauge which cannabis products will be most effective for you.
The basics of how THC and CBD work
Both THC and CBD interact with the endogenous cannabinoid system (a.k.a. “ECS” or “endocannabinoid system”), a network of receptors and chemicals situated throughout your brain and body. The ECS regulates a wide range of functions, including appetite, mood, pain, memory, sleep, immune responses, and more. The ECS is why cannabis can affect us in so many ways too; phytocannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with it, thereby influencing all the functions the ECS regulates.
When THC interacts with the ECS individually, it binds to both types of cannabinoid receptors, called the CB1 and CB2 receptors. It activates both of these receptors, which sets off a series of effects touching many of those functions the ECS governs.
Unlike THC, when CBD interacts with the ECS individually, it only weakly binds to the CB1 receptor. Researchers are still examining how exactly CBD exerts influence over the ECS since it doesn’t bind to the cannabinoid receptors in the same way THC does. One theory is it prevents endocannabinoids from being broken down, but more research is needed.
When present together, THC and CBD don’t just influence the ECS individually, though — they also influence one another. This can alter the way each interacts with the ECS and the effects it produces. For example, studies suggest that CBD and THC in combination are more effective for managing chronic pain, including neuropathic and inflammatory pain, than either cannabinoid on its own. This discovery means there could be significant therapeutic potential in unlocking the mystery behind how cannabinoids work in combination with one another.
To learn more about each individual cannabinoid, make a quick trek to our THC guide and CBD guide for a detailed breakdown on how each influences your expedition.
The entourage effect: The key to CBD and THC working together
The interaction between THC and CBD and how they influence the ECS together is part of a theory called “the entourage effect.” The entourage effect describes how the compounds of cannabis all work together to create varied effects depending on which are present and in what amounts. It doesn’t just apply to combining CBD and THC either. It applies to the more than 100 phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, along with terpenes, the aromatic and flavorful compounds also found in essential oils.
While much more research into the entourage effect is needed, it seems clear that broad-spectrum cannabis products exert a different influence over the ECS than isolates, which are products that contain just a single cannabinoid. For consumers, this means trying different products with varied combinations could produce unique effects, and some may be more therapeutic than others for specific needs.
Perhaps most importantly when it comes to the CBD and THC combination, it’s widely said that the former dulls the latter’s effects. This relationship is a key example of the entourage effect theory: These two cannabinoids invariably interact when present in the body.
THC-to-CBD ratios: What they are and why they matter
A cannabis product’s THC-to-CBD ratio is exactly what it sounds like: It details the product’s proportion of THC to CBD. For example, a product with 10 mg THC and 2.5 mg CBD has a THC-to-CBD ratio of 4:1. Similarly, a ratio of 1:1 signals that the product has equal amounts of THC and CBD.
These ratios matter because a high proportion of THC to CBD ratio may be better for relaxation. It may also lead to a more intense cannabis experience with stronger effects with less CBD to balance out the THC.
Conversely, higher CBD ratios are anecdotally known to lead to less intense cannabis experiences. However, research from John Hopkins Medicine suggests that high CBD dosages may actually make THC’s less desirable effects more potent. In any case, a higher CBD ratio may be helpful for focus, though plenty of high-THC strains are also known for getting people in the zone.
All these considerations shape the shopping experience at a dispensary like Boone Town Provisions. And if it’s all getting a little bit confusing — after all, different studies say different things about cannabis — our knowledgeable budtenders are here to guide you.
Tips for consuming cannabis products with THC and CBD
These tips can help you choose the best product and find your new go-to purchase.
- Determine your goals
The factors most important to you will depend on whether you’re looking to relax, get creative, or feel a deeper appreciation of the great outdoors. Reflect on what a successful session looks like to you — after all, what’s best for you might not be what’s best for someone else.
- Shop with a licensed cannabis dispensary
Licensed cannabis dispensaries only carry products tested by a third-party laboratory. When buying cannabis products for a particular reason, you need to know what you’re getting, and a licensed cannabis dispensary provides that level of certainty and confidence.
- Consider the product type
The type of cannabis product you choose will significantly influence your experience. Inhaled products like cannabis flower, concentrates, and vapes work almost immediately, and their effects peak quickly before soon tapering off. If you prefer long-lasting effects, opt for edibles, tinctures, or pills and capsules, which take more time to kick in but provide an enduring experience.
- Examine the product label
When reviewing a product label, start by identifying THC potency. This is expressed in milligrams or as a percentage of volume by weight. It can give you a sense of how strong a product’s intoxicating qualities might be. Low-tolerance consumers and those new to cannabis may prefer to consider lower percentages of THC, while those with higher tolerances may opt for more potent products.
Consider the other cannabinoids and terpenes present in the product. These are important because of the entourage effect, and they can influence your overall experience. For example, significant levels of Cannabinol (CBN) may change the way you feel when consuming. Similarly, the presence of limonene in the terpene profile can have a very different effect than myrcene. The best way to know how these other compounds will influence you is to try them for yourself and keep note of your experience.
- Discuss your options with a budtender
Talk with a budtender for help figuring out which of the products you’re considering suit you best. At Boone Town, our budtenders are trained experts on our entire inventory.
Tell us about your priorities and your preferences in cannabis products. Our budtenders will talk you through each category, from prerolls to topicals, and help you make a decision.
- Try the product and note your experience
Whenever you try a new cannabis product, take note of your experience. Jot down the full spectrum of compounds, including THC content, CBD content, minor cannabinoids, and terpene profile. This information can help you find similar products that you like. Keep a cannabis journal to track how your preferences evolve over time and make smarter buying decisions.
5 products that contain THC and CBD
Wana Quick Strawberry Margarita CBD: THC 1:1
Wana’s Quick Strawberry Margarita gummies contain a balanced 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD, with 10mg each per piece and a total of 100mg of THC and 100mg of CBD in the package. The gummies combine the effects of both cannabinoids with more than 30 terpenes, resulting in a sweet and citrusy treat with a subtle hint of salt.
These gummies are designed for fast-acting effects that you can expect to kick in within 15 minutes instead of an hour or more. Enjoy the balanced experience of physical and mental well-being, perfect for enjoying a nature walk.
1906 Genius Drops CBD: THC 1:1
1906 Genius Drops are expertly formulated to sharpen focus and enhance cognitive function. Each table features a 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD, delivering 2.5 mg each of THC and CBD per serving alongside 20 mg of caffeine to boost alertness. These tablets (swallow, don’t chew) integrate plant medicines like Rhodiola, Theobromine, Galangal, Bacopa, and L-Theanine to optimize mental clarity and memory.
Camino Sours Orchard CBD: THC 1:1
The Camino Sours Orchard gummies offer a refreshing and tart flavor with 10 mg each THC and CBD per serving. These gummies are crafted to provide a balanced effect, minimizing anxiety and maximizing enjoyment. With terpenes like limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene, they’re perfect for social occasions and relaxing moments alike.
Grön Pomegranate Pearls CBD:THC: 4:1
Grön’s Pomegranate Pearls are the perfect treat for relaxing activities. They offer a balanced 4:1 CBD to THC ratio, with 40 mg of CBD and 10 mg of THC per pearl. These delicious gummies provide soothing relief, helping you unwind and de-stress. Learn more about Grön by reading our product review.
Rejuv Relieve CBD Patch
Rejuv’s Relieve CBD Patch combines CBD and THC in a 10:1 ratio, with 50mg CBD and 5mg THC per patch. This transdermal patch achieves its effects within 10 to 15 minutes of being applied, helping the body melt away discomfort. It’s great for post-hike recovery or easing everyday stress.
Let Boone Town be your cannabis field guide
Cannabis is a complex plant that even our foremost researchers have yet to fully understand. But that doesn’t mean shopping for cannabis products has to make you feel like you’re lost in the wilderness. At Boone Town, we’re happy to help you blaze your own trail and find the best cannabis products for your needs. Start your cannabis adventure with us — we’re open seven days a week and ready to go.
