THC is one of the most recognizable compounds in cannabis, but what exactly is it, and what does it do?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid associated with the cannabis sativa plant. It's responsible for much of the "high" people experience after using marijuana and can affect perception, memory, coordination, appetite, mood, and reaction time.
THC is only one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Its intoxicating properties make it considerably different from compounds such as CBD. The experience can also vary depending on the amount used, product potency, method of use, previous cannabis experience, and individual sensitivity.
Here's what you should know about THC effects, possible side effects, long-term concerns, and how delta-9 compares with CBD.
What Does THC Stand For?
When people simply say "THC," they're usually referring to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary intoxicating compound associated with cannabis.
THC belongs to a larger group of compounds called cannabinoids. CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC are other familiar cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp. While these compounds come from the same plant, they don't all interact with the body in the same way.
What Is THC?
THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis. The amount present can vary considerably depending on the plant, product, and formulation. What makes delta-9 different from many other cannabinoids is its ability to produce intoxication.
Depending on the amount and individual response, THC can alter perception, coordination, attention, memory, mood, and reaction time. These effects are why someone using delta-9 may not be able to safely drive, operate machinery, or perform other activities that require quick reactions and clear judgment.
THC shouldn't be confused with cannabidiol (CBD). Although both compounds come from cannabis and interact with the body, CBD isn't generally considered intoxicating in the same way.
How Does THC Work in the Body?
To understand what THC does to your body, it helps to understand the endocannabinoid system, or ECS.
The ECS is a signaling system that includes naturally produced compounds called endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. Two of the best-known cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2.
Delta-9 can activate CB1 receptors, which are widely distributed throughout the brain. This interaction helps explain why THC can affect memory, attention, coordination, perception, mood, and reaction time.
THC can also influence the brain's reward system, including dopamine signaling. Together, these interactions contribute to the intoxication or "high" associated with cannabis.
What Does THC Feel Like?
There isn't one tetrahydrocannabinol experience that applies to everyone. THC effects can depend on the amount used, product potency, method of use, previous cannabis experience, individual sensitivity, and other factors.
Common THC Effects
Someone using THC may experience:
- Euphoria
- Relaxation
- Altered perception of time
- Increased risk of a high appetite
- Changes in attention
- Impaired coordination
- Slower reaction time
The intensity of these effects can vary considerably. A person who is unfamiliar with Delta-9 may also respond differently from someone who uses cannabis regularly.
Possible Tetrahydrocannabinol Side Effects
Not every experience is pleasant. THC side effects can include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Impaired coordination
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
Higher-potency products can produce stronger effects, and individual sensitivity can make a difference. Because THC can affect coordination, judgment, and reaction time, it shouldn't be used before driving or performing activities where impairment could create a safety risk.
Is THC Addictive?
Cannabis use can lead to cannabis use disorder (CUD). This occurs when someone has difficulty stopping or controlling cannabis use even when it's causing problems in their life.
According to the CDC, approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder. The risk is greater among people who begin using cannabis at a younger age or use it frequently.
Possible signs of cannabis use disorder can include:
- Using more cannabis than intended
- Trying unsuccessfully to stop
- Experiencing cravings
- Spending significant time using cannabis
- Continuing use despite negative consequences
- Needing increasingly stronger amounts to experience similar effects
Not everyone who uses THC will develop cannabis use disorder, but the possibility is important to understand.
Tolerance and Dependence
Frequent cannabis use can also lead to tolerance. This means someone may need more THC or a higher-potency product to experience effects similar to what they previously felt with a smaller amount.
Some people who use cannabis regularly can experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop or significantly reduce their use.
Tolerance, physical dependence, and cannabis use disorder are related concepts, but they aren't exactly the same thing.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of THC?
The long-term effects of THC and cannabis use can depend on factors such as frequency, potency, age of first use, and individual health.
Mental Health
Cannabis use has been associated with mental health concerns in some people. THC can also produce acute anxiety, paranoia, or psychotic symptoms, particularly at higher amounts or in people who are more sensitive to its effects.
Individual risk varies, which is why one person's experience shouldn't be used to predict how someone else will respond.
Memory, Learning, and Brain Development
Cannabis can affect brain functions involved in memory, learning, attention, and decision-making.
These concerns are particularly important for adolescents and young adults. Frequent cannabis use beginning at a younger age is also associated with a greater risk of developing cannabis use disorder.
How THC Effects Vary by Product Type
How THC is consumed can influence how quickly its effects begin and how long they're noticeable.
Inhaled Cannabis
When cannabis is smoked or inhaled, THC can reach the bloodstream relatively quickly. As a result, effects can begin sooner than with products that must pass through digestion.
Smoking cannabis also carries respiratory concerns because smoke contains harmful chemicals.
THC Edibles
THC edibles include products such as gummies, foods, and beverages.
Edibles pass through the digestive system before their effects are fully experienced. This can make the onset slower and sometimes less predictable than inhaled cannabis.
Because of that delay, there's also a risk of consuming additional THC before the effects of the first amount are fully noticeable.
Oils and Tinctures
THC oils and tinctures are another product format. The timing and intensity of their effects can vary depending on the formulation, amount, and how the product is used. Regardless of format, THC can cause impairment.
THC vs. CBD: What's the Difference?
The biggest difference between THC and CBD is intoxication. Delta-9 can produce a high, while CBD isn't generally considered intoxicating.
The two compounds also interact differently with the body. THC can activate CB1 receptors, while CBD doesn't strongly activate these receptors.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | THC | CBD |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Tetrahydrocannabinol | Cannabidiol |
| Intoxicating? | Yes | Not generally |
| Produces a High? | Yes | Not typically |
| Interacts With the ECS? | Yes, including activation of CB1 receptors | Yes, but differently from THC |
| Drug-Test Concern | Yes | CBD itself is not the main concern, but CBD products may contain THC |
| Possible Side Effects | Anxiety, paranoia, impaired coordination, and difficulty concentrating | Drowsiness, digestive changes, and possible medication interactions |
It's important to remember that non-intoxicating doesn't mean free of potential side effects. CBD can cause unwanted effects and can interact with certain medications.
Looking for a Non-Intoxicating Alternative to THC?
People who want to avoid THC's intoxicating effects may consider CBD. CBD doesn't generally produce the marijuana-like high associated with tetrahydrocannabinol.
That's one reason people may choose CBD products when they want to avoid intoxication. However, the finished product matters.
Full-spectrum CBD contains CBD along with other naturally occurring hemp compounds and can contain Delta-9.
Broad-spectrum CBD is generally processed by removing Delta-9 while retaining CBD and other hemp compounds.
CBD isolate is highly purified cannabidiol without the broader cannabinoid profile found in full- and broad-spectrum products.
If avoiding it is important because of personal preference or drug testing, don't rely only on front-label claims. Check the product's third-party laboratory results and Certificate of Analysis (COA).
How to Choose a CBD Product
Before choosing a CBD product, look beyond the total milligrams printed on the package.
Check for:
- CBD per serving
- Tetrahydrocannabinol content
- Complete cannabinoid profile
- Full ingredient list
- Product directions
- Third-party testing
- Current Certificate of Analysis
- Lot or batch information
A COA can help you verify the cannabinoid profile and compare it with what's printed on the product label.
THC FAQs
What Does THC Do to Your Body?
Delta-9 interacts with cannabinoid receptors and can affect perception, appetite, coordination, attention, memory, mood, and reaction time. Individual experiences can vary based on the product, amount, and personal sensitivity.
Does THC Get You High?
Yes. Delta-9 is the primary cannabinoid responsible for the intoxicating high associated with cannabis products.
Is THC Addictive?
Cannabis use can lead to cannabis use disorder. The risk is greater among people who begin using cannabis at a younger age or use it frequently.
What Is the Difference Between CBD and THC?
THC and CBD are separate cannabinoids that interact differently with the body. Tetrahydrocannabinol can produce intoxication, while CBD isn't generally considered intoxicating.
Does CBD Have THC?
It depends on the product. Full-spectrum CBD can contain Delta-9, while broad-spectrum products are generally processed to remove or minimize Delta-9. CBD isolate doesn't contain the broader cannabinoid profile found in full- and broad-spectrum extracts.
Does THC Have Side Effects?
Yes. Delta-9 can cause unwanted effects such as anxiety, paranoia, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and impaired coordination. The experience can depend on the amount, product potency, and individual response.
Sum It Up
Delta-9 THC is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid associated with cannabis, but the amount in a product matters. Higher amounts can produce noticeable intoxication and unwanted effects, while full-spectrum CBD products may contain relatively small amounts of THC alongside CBD and other naturally occurring hemp compounds.
For people who don't necessarily need to avoid THC completely, a full-spectrum CBD formula offers a way to experience a broader cannabinoid profile while keeping CBD at the center of the product. Rather than choosing a high-THC cannabis product, you can choose a CBD-focused formula that includes THC as one part of the overall hemp extract.
GreenIVe Full Spectrum CBD products are made for people who prefer this broader approach. When shopping, check the CBD per serving, THC content, cannabinoid profile, and third-party lab results so you know exactly what you're getting.
If you want CBD along with the naturally occurring compounds found in hemp, explore GreenIVe Full Spectrum CBD products and find a formula that fits your routine.
Zatural Full Spectrum CBD With THC Products
The statements made regarding these products and the potential benefits of CBD have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.
