CBD vs THC: what are the differences?
CBD and THC are two distinct hemp cannabinoids. THC is psychoactive and a controlled substance; CBD is neither. Chemical, legal and practical differences.
CBD vs THC: what are the differences?
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two best-known cannabinoids of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.). They are often confused, yet they have very different properties, legal status and uses.
A common origin
Both molecules derive from the same precursor, CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), transformed in the plant by different enzymes:
- CBDA synthase → CBDA → (heating) → CBD
- THCA synthase → THCA → (heating) → THC
The variety's genetics determine whether the plant produces mostly CBD or THC.
Chemical difference
CBD and THC share the same molecular formula (C21H30O2) but have a different spatial structure: THC has a closed ring, CBD a free hydroxyl group. This small difference radically changes how they interact with the endocannabinoid system.
- THC binds strongly to the CB1 receptor (brain) → psychoactive effect.
- CBD has low affinity for CB1 and CB2 → no intoxicating effect.
Difference in effect
| | CBD | THC | |---|---|---| | Psychoactive ("high") | no | yes | | CB1 receptor binding | low | strong | | Controlled-substance status | no (CJEU Kanavape 2020) | yes | | Freely sold in France | yes (≤ 0.3% THC) | no |
Per the WHO (2018 Critical Review), CBD shows no potential for abuse or dependence.
⚠️ No therapeutic claim: CBD sold outside of medical prescription is not a treatment. For any health question, consult a professional.
Legal difference in France
- CBD is legal: the decree of 30 December 2021 authorizes hemp-derived products with THC not exceeding 0.3%. The Conseil d'État confirmed flower and leaf sales in 2022.
- THC is a controlled substance. Above 0.3% in the plant, it is reclassified as controlled cannabis.
See the legal framework of CBD in France.
In practice: what's in a French CBD product?
A compliant French CBD product contains:
- a majority of CBD
- less than 0.3% THC (legal, non-psychoactive traces)
- often other minor cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC) and terpenes
Traceability (lot-by-lot lab analyses) guarantees the THC threshold is respected — the central quality criterion of the French artisanal industry.