Cannabis Education
THC vs Weed
Understanding the relationship between THC and weed (marijuana/cannabis). They're not the same thing - one is a compound, one is a plant.
The Simple Answer
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a chemical compound. Weed/marijuana/cannabis is the plant that contains THC along with 100+ other cannabinoids.
Breaking It Down
Weed (Cannabis Plant)
- The whole plant - flowers, leaves, stems
- Contains 100+ cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, etc.)
- Also contains terpenes (flavor/aroma)
- "Entourage effect" from all compounds together
- THC content varies: 10-30%+ in flower
THC (The Compound)
- Specific molecule: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol
- The primary psychoactive compound
- Can be isolated and extracted
- Found in concentrates, edibles, tinctures
- What drug tests detect
Why It Matters
Whole Plant vs Isolate
Smoking weed gives you THC plus CBD, CBG, terpenes (entourage effect). Pure THC products lack these.
Product Selection
THC percentage isn't everything. A 15% THC strain with good terpenes may feel stronger than 25% THC with poor terp profile.
Legal Definitions
Laws often reference THC content. Hemp is cannabis with <0.3% THC. Marijuana is cannabis with >0.3% THC.