What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC, is the main cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. It causes users to experience a "high", which is accompanied by a feeling of relaxation, euphoria and changes in perception. However, THC has many other properties and is not only used recreationally, but is also increasingly being used in medicine. In this article, we explain what THC is exactly, how it works, what role it plays in the cannabis plant and what health effects its use can have.

THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that plays a key role in regulating many bodily functions. The two most important receptors that THC mainly comes into contact with are CB1 and CB2 receptors. While CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain and nervous system, CB2 receptors are more likely to be found in immune cells and other tissues.

The binding of THC to CB1 receptors leads to the typical psychoactive effects such as an altered perception of time, more intense sensory impressions and increased euphoria. At the same time, cognitive abilities such as memory and coordination can also temporarily change. In higher doses, THC can also trigger anxiety or paranoia. But it is not only the mind that is affected: THC also has effects on the body, for example an increased heart rate and a change in appetite (the famous "feeding frenzy").

Effects of THC at a glance

• Psychoactive effects: Euphoria, altered perception, heightened sensory impressions.
• Cognitive effects: Impaired memory, coordination disorders.
• Physical effects: Increased heart rate, increased appetite.

These versatile effects make THC an exciting but also controversial substance.

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC are two of the most well-known cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, but they differ fundamentally in their effects. While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD is non-intoxicating and has been recognised in many medical fields.

The main difference lies in the way the two cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system. THC binds primarily to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which triggers the well-known psychoactive effects. CBD, on the other hand, has a stronger effect on the CB2 receptors, which are found primarily in the immune system and other body cells, and has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect without causing a high.

Differences at a glance:

• THC: Psychoactive, causes a "high", pain-relieving and relaxing.
• CBD: Non-psychoactive, calming, anti-inflammatory, helps with anxiety and sleep problems.

Thanks to these differences, THC and CBD are often used specifically for different purposes in medical treatment. THC is often used to treat pain, nausea or sleep disorders, while CBD is popular for chronic pain, anxiety and other health problems.

The THC content in cannabis plays a crucial role in the effect of consumption. There are many cannabis strains with different THC concentrations, some of which contain very little THC, while other strains offer particularly high amounts.

A THC content of less than 10 % is considered mild and provides a relaxing effect, while strains with 10-20 % THC are well suited for experienced users. Cannabis products with over 20 % THC have a particularly strong effect, which can be too intense for beginners. The choice of the right product therefore depends not only on the THC content, but also on the individual experience and tolerance of the user.

In addition to the classic smoking of cannabis, there are now a variety of THC products that allow for convenient and varied use, ranging from THC oils and tinctures to edibles such as brownies, biscuits and gummy bears.

THC oil is particularly convenient and can either be dripped under the tongue or mixed into food and drink. It offers a quick effect and can be precisely dosed. If you want to learn more about making cannabis oil, you can find valuable tips and instructions in our blog article on making cannabis oil. Edibles, on the other hand, offer a different experience: the THC is processed in the digestive tract, resulting in a delayed but more intense effect. These products are particularly popular because they are discreet and easy to consume.

Other products such as Vapes and topicals (ointments or lotions) also enable various forms of THC use. These can be applied directly to the skin and are particularly useful for treating skin problems or localised pain without having a psychoactive effect.

If you want to learn more about THC products, here are a few links for you!

Discover how to make your own cannabis cocoa - a delicious and relaxing way to enjoy THC. Learn more here.

Cannabis milk is a wonderful alternative to conventional milk and is perfect for preparing edibles or for direct consumption. Find out all about it here.

Cannabis butter is the basis of many THC-based recipes. Learn how to make it easily and effectively. You can find all the information in our blog article here.