Getting to the bottom of THC and CBD. Learn how they work in the body, understand the effects, benefits, differences & how they interact with the endocannabinoid system.

Cannabis has officially gone mainstream and a lot of people are turning to it to relax, get some sleep, ease stress or manage pain. But even frequent users often wonder what's going on with THC and CBD when they're in the body - and why they seem to produce such different effects.

This guide breaks down how cannabinoids interact with your endocannabinoid system, the key differences between THC and CBD, their most common effects, and how to pick the right products for your needs. Whether you're strolling through our products menu or checking out some new strains, understanding what goes on behind the scenes makes for a safer, more enjoyable and more reliable experience.

A Crash Course on Cannabinoids - The Basics

Cannabinoids are the natural compounds found in the cannabis plant - and there are two you probably know best: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These two interact with a super-complex network in your body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is in charge of regulating everything from your mood to your appetite.

Here are the most common cannabinoids you'll come across:

• THC: The one that gets you high
• CBD: Doesn’t get you high but has loads of therapeutic benefits
• CBG: Not as well known but is linked to mood support and reducing inflammation
• CBN: Known for helping you nod off and get some shut eye

Understand what's going on with cannabinoids and you'll get a better idea of what to expect whether you're choosing concentrates, edibles, vapes, flower or tinctures.

How THC interacts with the body

THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis - the one that gives you those lovely feelings of euphoria and relaxation. It binds to CB1 receptors in the brain which are in charge of mood, movement, memory and reward. This is why the effects of THC are so strong - and pretty noticeable.

Some common effects of THC include:

• Feeling like you're walking on air
• Deep relaxation all over the body and in the mind
• A heightened sense of what's going on around you (taste, sound, touch)
• Increased appetite (because who doesn't love snacks?)
• Pain relief and reduced inflammation
• You might even find yourself in a deep sleep

Lots of users rely on THC for pain support, being more creative, to chill out and get some sleep. The good news is that there are loads of options out there for anyone looking for a THC kick - everything from vapes to wax to shatter.

If you live in San Bernardino, Rialto, or Eastvale, The Herbalist has got you covered - you can get cannabis delivered to your doorstep in no time.

How CBD interacts with the body

So what about CBD? Unlike THC, it doesn't bind all that strongly to CB1 receptors, so you won't get a high from it. Instead, it goes about interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors and also influences serotonin, dopamine and pain pathways in a pretty gentle way. This results in a nice calm feeling without any of the, ahem, "added extras".

Some common effects of CBD include:

• Feeling less stressed out and anxious
• Getting a slightly better mood
• Feeling pretty chill without being knocked out
• Reduced inflammation and aches and pains
• Clear-headed and relaxed
• You might even find that you sleep a bit better

CBD's also known for being able to counteract some of THC's more intense effects. So if you ever find that THC is a bit too much for you, try reaching for some of that CBD instead.

Lots of users choose CBD-rich accessories like tinctures and balms for a daily dose of chill - or even blend it with some THC for a more manageable experience. CBD is also a great option for newbies or if you're not a fan of the high.

The Endocannabinoid System in a Nutshell

So what's all this endocannabinoid system (ECS) business? The ECS is basically your body's own built-in regulatory network - in charge of keeping all the major systems in balance. So what does that mean? Well, it's in charge of:

• Making sure you're feeling alright\
• Helping you sleep soundly\
• Managing your appetite and digestion\
• Keeping your immune system on track\
• Reducing inflammation\
• Keeping your memory and learning sharp

The ECS has three key players:

1. Endocannabinoids

The natural cannabinoids your body makes for itself

2. CB1 and CB2 Receptors

CB1 is mainly in the brain and nervous system - CB2 is mostly in the immune system

3. Enzymes

These are the guys that break down cannabinoids after you're done using them

THC and CBD interact with the ECS in different ways - which is why they seem to produce such different effects - even when you're taking them together.

THC vs CBD: Key Differences

While THC & CBD come from the same plant, they pack some seriously different punches. Knowing the difference is key to picking the right one for your goals.

THC

• Gets you high, basically
• Strongly locks onto CB1 receptors
• More intense effects all around
• Evening is a good time for this, we find - or if you're looking for a creative boost or some pain relief.

CBD

• Doesn't get you high
• Kind of works with CB1/CB2, but really lightly
• Smooth, easy-going effects, all day long
• Great for some stress relief, daytime chill-outs or if you're fighting inflammation.

Why People Mix Them Together

Many people like to have a mix of both because it can:

• Help you relax and unwind at the same time
• Knock out anxiety or paranoia caused by THC
• Give you more targeted relief
• Even help you sleep better without putting you under

The Herbalist has got all sorts of balanced options in our Deals, tinctures, and gummies, all on sale, so you can try out different ratios and see what works for you.

Common Effects of THC

If you're looking for something that'll make you feel pretty good, THC is probably what you're after.

What THC Can Do For You

• Relieves pain
• Relaxes your muscles
• Makes your stomach feel better when you're feeling queasy
• Gives you a bit of a nap
• Makes you hungry (because who doesn't love a good snack?)

Things to Watch Out For

• You might get a dry mouth
• Your eyes might get a little red
• You might have a bit of a memory lapse
• Or get a little anxious (if you've had too much)
• Your heart might start racing a bit faster

If these effects are a bit too much for you, try products with more CBD, or THC that's not as strong, or edibles that take a bit longer to kick in.

Common Effects of CBD

CBD is great if you want to feel calm and clear-headed without getting high.

What CBD Can Do For You

• Reduces pain or soreness
• Relaxes your muscles
• Helps you sleep better
• Makes you feel more grounded

Why People Choose CBD Over THC

• It's safe to take during the day
• It won't get you high
• It's perfect for beginners
• It can even help you balance out the effects of THC

We've got heaps of CBD-rich options in our tinctures, soft gels, wellness blends, and pet products. Check out our Blog for more information on cannabinoids.

The Best Products for Different Effects

Different people need different things - and that's where our various cannabis categories come in.

Best for Strong THC Effects

• Concentrates like wax, shatter, or live resin
• High-THC vape cartridges
• Infused prerolls
• Edibles that pack a punch
• Distillate syringes

If you want something that's really, really strong, our Concentrate options are the way to go.

Best for CBD or Balanced Effects

• CBD edibles
• Gummies that are 1:1 THC/CBD
• CBD tinctures
• Topicals and balms
• Broad-spectrum oils

Our balanced products are all about balance and stability - and they feel pretty great, too.

Delivery that's as Smooth as Silk

The Herbalist offers delivery across a bunch of Delivery Areas, so you can get THC, CBD and all sorts of other products delivered right to your doorstep.

Picking the Right Cannabinoid for You

Both THC and CBD have their perks - but it really depends on what you're after, how much of a head start you need, and whether you're more of a chill-out or get-up-and-go kind of person. If you want to feel euphoric and uplifted, THC might be the way to go. If you're after some calm, clarity, or daytime relief without getting high, go for CBD. Don't forget to contact us today for all your needs.