Understanding THC and CBD
What THC and CBD are, how they differ, and how to read potency percentages so you can choose products with confidence.
Updated June 2, 2026 4 min read
THC and CBD are the two most talked-about compounds in cannabis. Knowing the basics helps you compare products and pick the right potency for you.
THC
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis. It’s what produces the “high.” Products list THC as a percentage (for flower) or in milligrams (for edibles). Higher numbers mean stronger effects.
CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and is often chosen for a more balanced or clear-headed experience. Some products pair CBD with THC; the ratio between them shapes how a product feels.
Reading potency and dosing
For edibles, a common starting dose is 2.5-5 mg of THC; wait at least an hour before taking more. For flower and vapes, potency is shown as a percentage. If you’re new or returning after a break, start low and go slow. You can always take more, but you can’t take less.