What's the Difference between CBD and THC found in Cannabis?
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) molecules are almost identical and hold the same molecular formula C21 H30 02 with both of their masses measuring 314 g/mol.
The one key difference in THC is that it has a cyclic ring. This cyclic ring found in THC is the compound that produces the feeling of being 'high'. However CBD does not contain this structure but instead has a hydroxyl group. Therefore CBD does not produce the feeling of being ‘high’.
To understand why this happens , We need to look at the CB1 receptors in our body. Our CB1 receptor is affected by a neurotransmitter called Anandamide, which controls the generation of pleasure, motivation and appetite. Some people experience a 'high' after exercise because the body has released Anandamide. The THC structure is so similar to Anandamide that it fits perfectly into the CB1 receptor causing a person to feel 'high'.
However because the hydroxyl group found in CBD it is a different shape and does not fit into the CB1 receptor therefore people do not get the sensation of being 'High'. But CBD does bind to other receptors in our cannabinoid system affecting us in positive ways. CBD holds on to the receptor essentially blocking the path or turning it off also known to biologists as allosteric inhibition. This is where CBD becomes a great aid in anti inflammatory and pain management.