How is CBD Different from Marijuana and THC?

Introduction

When people hear the word cannabis, they often think of marijuana — the plant associated with intoxication or the “high.” But cannabis is a broad plant family with multiple compounds, each playing a very different role in how it interacts with the human body.

The two most well-known compounds are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). While they come from the same plant species, their effects, legality, and uses are quite different.

At Canna Mist, our products are based on Full Spectrum CBD oil derived from hemp and diluted in Virgin Olive Oil. We’re often asked: “Does CBD get you high? Is it just another form of marijuana?”

This article will break down the differences between CBD, THC, and marijuana, separating myths from facts. We’ll cover how each works in the body, their legal status, safety, and wellness applications — so you can make informed decisions about CBD.

Cannabis, Hemp, Marijuana: Untangling the Terms

One of the most confusing aspects of CBD is the terminology. Let’s clarify:

Term	Definition	THC Content
Cannabis	The plant family that includes both hemp and marijuana.	Varies
Hemp	A legal classification of cannabis with ≤0.3% THC (in most countries, including the US) and higher CBD.	Very low
Marijuana	Cannabis plants with >0.3% THC, cultivated for recreational or medical use.	High
CBD (Cannabidiol)	A non-intoxicating compound extracted mainly from hemp.	None/trace
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)	The psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes intoxication.	High in marijuana

Key takeaway: Hemp = high CBD, low THC. Marijuana = high THC. CBD itself = no intoxication.

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What is THC?

Chemical Profile

• THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.

• It binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing euphoria, altered perception, and sometimes anxiety or paranoia.

Effects

• Intoxication / “high” feeling

• Increased appetite (“munchies”)

• Altered motor coordination and memory

• Pain relief and anti-nausea effects (used in some medical marijuana treatments)

Risks

• Can impair cognitive and motor functions

• Possible dependency in some users

• Not recommended for those prone to anxiety or certain psychiatric conditions

• Illegal or tightly regulated in many countries

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What is CBD?

Chemical Profile

• CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid.

• It interacts more indirectly with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), influencing serotonin, vanilloid (TRPV1), and GABA receptors.

• It does not cause a “high.”

Effects

• Promotes calm and stress relief (Blessing et al., Neurotherapeutics, 2015)

• May support sleep quality (Shannon et al., Permanente Journal, 2019)

• Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence, 2018)

• Neuroprotective potential (studies ongoing in epilepsy, MS, Parkinson’s)

Safety

• Considered well tolerated, with mild side effects possible (fatigue, appetite changes, diarrhea).

• Non-addictive and with low abuse potential (WHO, 2018).

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CBD vs. THC: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	CBD	THC
Psychoactive?	No	Yes
Legal status (most countries)	Legal if ≤0.3% THC	Restricted/illegal
Common source	Hemp	Marijuana
Primary receptor activity	Indirect ECS modulation (5-HT1A, TRPV1, GABA)	Direct CB1 binding
Effects	Calm, balance, recovery support	Intoxication, euphoria
Risks	Generally safe, mild side effects	Impaired cognition, dependency risk
Uses	Stress, sleep, inflammation, recovery	Medical marijuana, recreational use

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The Endocannabinoid System: Where CBD and THC Fit

Both CBD and THC interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a biological network that regulates mood, sleep, appetite, pain, and immune balance.

• THC: Binds strongly to CB1 receptors (in the brain and central nervous system), causing psychoactive effects.

• CBD: Modulates the system indirectly — increasing natural endocannabinoid levels, calming overactive signaling, and interacting with serotonin and vanilloid pathways.

Think of THC as pressing the “gas pedal” directly, while CBD fine-tunes the “braking and steering systems” for balance.

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Is CBD Legal?

The legality of CBD depends on THC content:

• CBD from hemp (≤0.3% THC) is legal in most countries, including South Africa where Canna Mist operates.

• CBD from marijuana (>0.3% THC) is still considered cannabis and usually illegal outside medical programs.

• THC itself remains a controlled substance in most jurisdictions.

Important: Always choose brands that provide lab testing to confirm THC levels are compliant.

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Why People Confuse CBD with Marijuana

1. Same plant family (cannabis): Both hemp and marijuana are cannabis plants.

2. Smell and appearance: CBD oil may smell “earthy,” reminding people of cannabis.

3. Stigma: Decades of prohibition blurred distinctions between compounds.

4. Marketing misuse: Some companies blur lines for hype, reinforcing confusion.

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Practical Takeaways

1. CBD ≠ Marijuana: CBD is derived from hemp with negligible THC. It does not cause intoxication.

2. THC = the high: THC is the compound responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects.

3. Full Spectrum CBD contains trace THC but within legal limits (<0.3%), not enough to cause a high.

4. Both compounds have therapeutic potential, but CBD is more accessible, legal, and safe for daily wellness.

5. Choose tested products: Lab testing confirms THC levels and ensures purity.

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The Canna Mist Difference

At Canna Mist, we believe clarity matters. That’s why our CBD oils are:

• Full Spectrum CBD: Harnessing cannabinoids and terpenes for the entourage effect.

• Virgin Olive Oil carrier: A natural, antioxidant-rich base for absorption and wellness.

• Black glass bottles: Protect against UV damage and preserve freshness.

• Lab tested: Every batch is tested for potency and compliance (even if downloadable certificates are not yet online).

• Safe: Our CBD oils give you the full benefits of the hemp plant — without the intoxicating effects of marijuana or THC.

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FAQ

1. Will CBD get me high?

No. CBD is non-intoxicating and does not cause a “high.”

2. Does Canna Mist CBD oil contain THC?

Yes, trace amounts — because it’s Full Spectrum CBD. But it’s always below the legal limit, not enough to cause psychoactive effects.

3. What’s the difference between hemp and marijuana?

Hemp is cannabis with very low THC (≤0.3%), while marijuana has high THC and is used recreationally or medicinally.

4. Is CBD legal in South Africa?

Yes, CBD is legal in South Africa if it contains ≤20 mg daily dose (over-the-counter) or is compliant with regulations. Canna Mist products are crafted to meet these standards.

5. Can CBD cause side effects?

Mild effects like fatigue or digestive upset are possible, but CBD is generally safe and well tolerated.

6. Why choose Full Spectrum CBD over isolate?

Full Spectrum contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes that may work synergistically (the entourage effect). Isolate is pure CBD but lacks this synergy.

7. Will CBD show up on a drug test?

Unlikely, but possible with Full Spectrum oils due to trace THC. If you’re subject to testing, consult with your employer or doctor.

8. Can I drive after taking CBD oil?

Yes. CBD is non-intoxicating and does not impair motor skills, unlike THC.