Posted On:
March 7, 2023
CBD Flower vs THC Flower: What's The Key Differences
Cannabis contains 113 cannabinoids including CBD and THC. CBD flower is the bud of a cannabis sativa or hemp plant. Typically, CBD flower contains a high amount of CBD and a low amount of THC.
Oppositely THC flower indicates a major psychoactive compound found in the marijuana plant. As CBD and THC products are getting so much attention, you might be curious about the key differences between CBD flower vs THC flower.
Today, in this blog, we’ll discuss the main differences between CBD flowers and THC flowers, their effects and benefits, safety, and the ways to determine whether your flowers have high THC or high CBD.
Understanding The Differences Between CBD Flower and THC Flower
Before knowing the differences between CBD flower Vs THC flower, you should be aware of CBD vs THC. Both are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they have distinct chemical structures and properties.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound that does not produce a high feeling. It is commonly used for medicinal purposes to treat anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other conditions.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), on the other hand, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the feeling of being high. It is commonly used recreationally but also has medicinal benefits, such as pain relief, appetite stimulation, and nausea reduction.
What is CBD Flower?
CBD flower is the dried flower of the hemp plant that contains high levels of CBD and very low levels of THC. The legal limit for THC in hemp is 0.3%, meaning that CBD flower will not produce any psychoactive effects.
CBD flowers can be consumed in various ways, such as smoking, vaporizing, or cooking. The major use of CBD flower extracts is in CBD products such as CBD gummies, Body rubs, CBD syrups, and so on.
What is THC Flower?
THC flower is the dried flower of the cannabis plant that contains high levels of THC and low levels of CBD. It is the most common type of cannabis consumed recreationally and is known for producing the feeling of being "high." THC flowers can be consumed in various ways, such as smoking, vaporizing, or cooking.
Features and Benefits of CBD Flower Vs THC Flower
Both CBD flowers and THC flowers have some medicinal benefits and drawbacks. However, CBD flower is the safest option to consume. Also, the extraction of these flowers has been used by CBD manufacturers to produce high-quality CBD products that can treat several health conditions.
THC also has many positive features and benefits. But it can cause euphoria, high, munchies, and have some short-term and long-term side effects.
In this section, we’ll discuss the major characteristics and benefits of CBD and THC flowers.
Features of CBD Flowers
Here is a list of features that are typically associated with CBD flowers:
- It’s non-psychoactive and won’t cause you high like recreational marijuana (THC Flower)
- Can provide medicinal benefits.
- Can be used to reduce anxiety, pain, and inflammation.
- Can be consumed in various ways.
Features of THC Flower
- THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the main compound in THC flower
- It produces a psychoactive effect which is opposite to CBD flower.
- It can have effects like euphoria and mind-altering.
- It also has some medicinal benefits and side effects.
- Just like CBD, it can be used to reduce pain, stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea.
Benefits of Using CBD Flower
CBD flower can provide various potential benefits. That’s why it is getting so popular. It’s important to note that the extent of these benefits can vary from person to person.
Some potential benefits of CBD flower include:
- Pain Relief
- Anxiety and Stress Reduction
- Anti-inflammatory Properties that can reduce inflammation and arthritis.
- Improved sleep
- Neuroprotection Effects can help with epilepsy and neurodegenerative disorders.
Benefits of THC Flower
THC and CBD flower both have some common benefits. However, THC flower-extracted products, vaping, or smoking THC buds might not be a suitable option for many individuals. It can also be addictive like other controlled substances and have side effects.
Apart from the negative effects, there are some noteworthy benefits that include:
- Relaxation or sense of calmness
- Stress reduction
- Nausea and vomiting relief
- Cognitive effects
- Sleep aid
Drawbacks of THC Flower Vs. CBD Flower
Both CBD flower and THC flower have some drawbacks. The use of THC flowers for medicinal purposes may benefit a lot of individuals. However, they consult a healthcare professional before taking it.
On the other hand, CBD flower is already in the market and many experts and researchers of cannabis have already recommended it for various medicinal uses. Besides, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved the Epidiolex medicine for the treatment of seizures (sudden, uncontrolled bursts of electrical activity in the brain). However, CBD and THC flowers have some drawbacks.
Here is a list of drawbacks of CBD Flowers:
- If you intend to get high, taking CBD won’t help.
- May not be as effective for certain conditions compared to THC flower.
- CBD flower may cause mild psychoactive effects in some individuals due to the presence of trace amounts of THC.
- CBD flowers can cause minor side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Here is a list of drawbacks of THC Flowers:
- Can produce unwanted side effects, such as paranoia and anxiety.
- Still not legal in many states of the United States of America.
- Taking THC flowers on a regular basis can be addictive.
- It can have some serious side effects if consumed in the form of vaping or smoking such as respiratory difficulties, psychiatric disorders, changes in the perception of time, impaired body movement, impaired cognition and memory, and so on.
CBD Flower vs THC Flower: Key Differences
Now that we have a basic understanding of what CBD and THC are and what CBD flower and THC flower are let's explore the key differences of these two.
“Typically, THC dominant cannabis flower (which usually contains about 10% THC or greater) will usually contain a low CBD content (1% or less). Conversely, high CBD flowers typically contain little THC. In fact, many high CBD strains contain less than 5% THC and as much as 20% CBD” Says Ethos Cannabis.
In the following sections, we’ll discuss the key differences between CBD flowers vs THC flowers in terms of chemical structure, legality, medicinal benefits, side effects, and method of consumption.
#1. Chemical Structure
CBD and THC have different chemical structures, which is why they have distinct effects on the body. THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, which produces the feeling of being "high." CBD, on the other hand, does not bind to these receptors and does not produce a psychoactive effect.
#2. Legality
CBD flower is legal in all 50 states as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. THC flower, on the other hand, is illegal in some states and can only be purchased legally in states that have legalized recreational or medicinal cannabis.
#3. Medicinal Benefits
Both CBD flowers and THC flowers have medicinal benefits, but they differ in the conditions they can treat. CBD flower is commonly used to treat anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other conditions. THC flower, on the other hand, is commonly used to reduce pain, stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea.
#4. Side Effects
CBD flower has minimal side effects, but some people may experience mild drowsiness, dry mouth, or lightheadedness. THC flower, on the other hand, can produce unwanted side effects such as paranoia, anxiety, and impaired memory. Long-term use of THC can also lead to addiction.
#5. Consumption Methods
CBD flower and THC flower can both be consumed in various ways, such as smoking, vaporizing, or cooking. However, the dosage and effects of each method may vary. For example, smoking THC flower produces the quickest onset of effects, while consuming edibles produces a delayed and longer-lasting effect.
A Comparison Table on THC Vs CBD Flowers
The following table demonstrates key differences between CBD flower vs THC flower so that you can get a quick overview:
| Characteristic | CBD Flower | THC Flower |
| THC content | Less than 0.3% | More than 0.3% |
| Psychoactive effects | No | Yes |
| Aroma | Earthy or herbal | Fruity or citrusy |
| Flavor | Mellow | Pronounced |
| Side Effects | Minimal side effects including potential drowsiness, or dry mouth. | May include impaired cognitive function, short-term memory issues, and increased heart rate. |
| Drug Testing Concerns | Low risk of triggering a positive drug test due to minimal THC content | Potential to trigger positive drug test due to high amount of THC content |
How to Choose Between CBD Flower and THC Flower?
The main difference between CBD flowers and THC flowers is the amount of THC they contain. CBD flower contains less than 0.3% THC, while THC flower contains more than 0.3% THC. This difference in THC content affects the way the two flowers make you feel.
CBD flower does not produce a psychoactive high, while THC flower does. This means that CBD flower can be used during the day without causing any problems with your ability to focus or concentrate. THC flower, on the other hand, should only be used in the evening or at night, as it can make you feel sleepy and relaxed.
In addition to the difference in THC content, CBD flowers, and THC flowers also have different aromas and flavors. CBD flower typically has a more earthy or herbal aroma, while THC flower has a more fruity or citrusy aroma. The flavors of CBD flower and THC flower are also different, with CBD flower having a more mellow flavor and THC flower having a more pronounced flavor.
Ultimately, the best way to choose between CBD flower and THC flower is to experiment with both and see which one you prefer. If you are looking for a flower that will not produce a psychoactive high, then CBD flower is a good option. However, in the case of using CBD or THC for medicinal purposes, we strongly recommend to consult with a healthcare provider.
How to Know If Your Flower is High CBD or High THC?
Differentiating CBD and THC is sometimes confusing and requires expert knowledge. The simplest to identify the THC and CBD content of a cannabis product is to look at the package itself. Product labels usually list the percentage of CBD and THC present in the products.
The usual case is that cannabis flower with high levels of THC (typically 10% or more) has a low amount of CBD (1% or lower).
On the other hand, cannabis flower with high levels of CBD generally has little THC. Some high CBD strains may have less than 5% THC and as much as 20% CBD. As an illustration, the "Harlequin" strain typically contains 4% to 7% THC, but it can have up to 16% CBD.
⇒ Read More: Can you take too much CBD?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some queries that are asked by searchers regarding CBD flowers and THC flowers. We’ve answered these questions to provide more insight.
1. Is CBD flower better than THC?
The answer depends on individual preferences and needs. CBD flower offers non-intoxicating effects and potential therapeutic benefits without the high associated with THC. It may be preferred by those seeking relaxation and relief without the psychoactive effects.
2. Is CBD bud the same as THC bud?
While both CBD and THC buds come from the cannabis plant, they differ in their cannabinoid composition. CBD buds contain higher levels of CBD and only trace amounts of THC, whereas THC buds have higher THC concentrations that produce psychoactive effects.
3. What is the average THC to CBD ratio in flower?
The average THC to CBD ratio in flower can vary widely depending on the strain. Some strains may have equal levels of THC and CBD (1:1 ratio), while others can have significantly higher THC levels compared to CBD.
4. How potent is the CBD flower?
The potency of CBD flower depends on the amount of CBD it contains, usually expressed as a percentage of total cannabinoids. It can range from a few percentage points to over 20% CBD.
5. What is considered high CBD in flower?
A CBD flower with a high CBD content is typically considered to have a CBD concentration of 15% or more. Strains with CBD levels above 20% are generally regarded as very high CBD strains.
The Bottom Line
In the end, the comparison of CBD flowers vs THC flowers highlights their fundamental differences in composition and effects.
CBD flower, rich in cannabidiol, offers potential therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects, making it a popular choice for users seeking relief without a "high."
On the other hand, THC flower, with its dominant tetrahydrocannabinol content, provides psychoactive effects, appealing to recreational users aiming for euphoria and altered perception.
The legal status, medicinal applications, and implications on drug testing further distinguish these cannabis varieties, emphasizing the importance of informed choices based on individual preferences and intended outcomes.
