THC vs. CBD: what’s the difference?

The short answer

We describe CBD as non-intoxicating rather than “non-psychoactive.” It can still affect alertness and mood in some people.

THCA: the THC you see before it’s heated

Raw cannabis contains very little THC. Most of it is THCA, an acidic form that barely interacts with cannabinoid receptors. Heat from smoking, vaping or cooking converts THCA into THC, a process called decarboxylation. That’s why flower sold as “high-THCA” is just as intoxicating once it’s smoked.

California labels account for this with Total THC: THC + (0.877 × THCA). The 0.877 factor adjusts for the weight THCA loses when it turns into THC. CBD works the same way: Total CBD includes its acidic form, CBDA.

Reading THC and CBD together

Edibles and other measured products list THC and CBD in milligrams per serving. A label might show 5 mg THC and 5 mg CBD (a 1:1 product), or mostly one or the other. Comparing the two numbers tells you more than the product name does.

A common claim is that CBD “cancels out” THC. The evidence doesn’t support relying on that. Treat the THC number as the one that sets how intoxicating a product will be.

What the FDA says

• The FDA has approved one CBD medicine, Epidiolex, for seizures linked to three specific conditions. It has also approved two synthetic cannabinoid medicines for certain uses: dronabinol, which is synthetic THC, and nabilone, a THC-like compound. It has not approved cannabis itself to treat any disease or condition.
• The FDA warns that CBD can cause liver injury, can interact with other medicines, and can cause drowsiness, especially combined with alcohol or other sedating drugs.
• THC and CBD are both processed by the liver, so either can interact with medications. If you take any medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using cannabis or CBD.

We don’t make health claims about any product, and no cannabis product we sell is approved to treat a medical condition.

Licensed cannabis vs. hemp products

CBD products are also sold outside dispensaries as “hemp.” California tightened hemp rules starting January 1, 2026: inhalable hemp products and synthetic cannabinoids are banned, and hemp foods and drinks may not contain THC. Products sold at a licensed dispensary like The Set are state-tested, tracked from producer to shelf, and carry the universal cannabis symbol.