CBD or THC: What Are the Differences?
They are often confused, yet CBD and THC are two very different molecules. Both are cannabinoids from hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), but their effects on the body and their legal status have nothing in common. One is classified as a narcotic, the other is a legal compound valued for relaxation. Here, factually, is what really sets them apart.
Two cannabinoids, one plant
Hemp contains more than a hundred cannabinoids. The two best known are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). They come from the same plant and share a similar chemical formula, but they do not interact in the same way with the human body's endocannabinoid system. THC binds strongly to the brain's CB1 receptors, which explains its intoxicating effect; CBD, on the other hand, has a very low affinity for these receptors and does not cause intoxication. It is this difference in action, at the molecular level, that underlies all the other distinctions — sensory as well as legal. A shared botanical origin therefore does not mean the same behaviour in the body. For the basics, see our guide what is CBD.
The key difference: the psychotropic effect
This is THE essential distinction between the two molecules, and the one that governs their legal status. THC is psychotropic: by binding to the brain's CB1 receptors, it produces the “high” effect, alters perception, mood and alertness, and can lead to dependence. Conversely, CBD is not psychotropic: it does not make you high, does not alter your state of consciousness and does not impair alertness in the same way. This is why THC is regulated as a narcotic while CBD is not. CBD is valued for a simple feeling of relaxation, while keeping a clear head. This difference in nature — intoxicating versus non-intoxicating — is the key that explains why these two closely related cannabinoids are treated in opposite ways by the law and by consumers alike.
The legal difference
In France and in the European Union, THC is banned above a very low threshold, whereas CBD is legal. In France, the order of 30 December 2021 authorises the cultivation, import and marketing of hemp whose THC content does not exceed 0.3%. At European level, the ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) known as “Kanavape”, case C-663/18 of 19 November 2020, held that a Member State cannot prohibit the marketing of CBD lawfully produced in another Member State, in the name of the free movement of goods. Furthermore, extracted CBD falls under Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 “Novel Food”, which governs new foods in the Union. All our products comply with the 0.3% THC threshold and are laboratory tested. More details in CBD legality and delivery.
Saliva tests and driving
On the road, the saliva tests used during checks look for THC, not CBD. In theory, consuming a CBD product containing legal traces of THC (up to 0.3%) remains far from the concentrations of recreational cannabis use. However, a screening test detects the presence of THC, not its origin or the quantity consumed: heavy consumption of products containing these traces could, in principle, influence a result. This is not about giving advice beyond a simple principle: caution remains essential before getting behind the wheel. This factual point is worth knowing, because it once again contrasts the status of THC — the molecule targeted by checks — with that of CBD, which is not looked for as such.
Why choose CBD?
CBD lets you enjoy the aromatic qualities of hemp and a moment of relaxation, without the intoxicating effects or the legal risks of THC, and entirely legally as long as the 0.3% threshold is respected. Where THC exposes you to a strict criminal framework and an uncontrolled psychotropic effect, CBD belongs to a register of adult, legal and traceable well-being. It is this combination — relaxation without intoxication and legality — that makes it a valued alternative for switching off gently, without the drawbacks associated with THC. Discover our CBD flowers and our resins & hash, or let our best sellers guide you.
FAQ — CBD and THC
Does CBD make you high?
No. CBD is not psychotropic: unlike THC, it does not bind strongly to the brain's CB1 receptors and produces no high.
Does CBD contain THC?
Our products contain less than 0.3% THC, in accordance with French and European regulations — a tiny trace, with no psychotropic effect.
Is CBD detected in a saliva test?
Roadside tests look for THC, not CBD. Heavy consumption of products containing traces of THC can theoretically influence a test: caution remains essential before driving.
Is CBD addictive?
No, unlike THC, which is classified as a narcotic. The link between CBD and cannabis consumption is also the subject of research, without any promise being able to be drawn from it.
Wellness product reserved for adults. This article is informative and does not constitute medical advice.
