If you’re new to cannabis, you may be familiar with the two most well-known compounds—CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—but not know what they really do. While both cannabinoids originate from the same plant, their effects and uses are very different.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle way to unwind, a solution to sleepless nights, or an alternative to alcohol, knowing which cannabinoid aligns with your goals is the key to making an informed choice. This article breaks down the potential benefits of THC and CBD to help you decide which option is right for you.
What is the Difference Between CBD and THC?
CBD and THC both come from the cannabis plant, a species with a rich history dating back over 12,000 years1 and originating near Central Asia's Altai Mountains. Cannabis spread with ancient migrations becoming a staple in medicinal and therapeutic applications as early as 3000 years ago in Taiwan.
At first glance, CBD and THC may appear the same but their effects and uses differ significantly. CBD is often associated with calming properties, making it a popular choice for stress relief, better sleep, and enhanced focus. Meanwhile, THC is best known for its ability to produce a gentle uplifting sensation that can enhance creativity, motivation, and social interactions.
Scientific research2 continues to uncover the unique benefits of these cannabinoids. CBD has shown promise in reducing anxiety, managing inflammation, and supporting overall wellness. THC, on the other hand, is celebrated for its mood-boosting properties and ability to alleviate pain. When combined, they represent two distinct yet complementary approaches to using cannabis.
Changing Attitudes Towards Cannabis
In recent years, cannabis has evolved beyond its recreational and medicinal roots to become an integral part of modern wellness routines. For many, it offers a natural alternative to traditional solutions, addressing a wide range of needs from stress relief to fitness motivation.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day, trying to get to sleep more easily, or managing discomfort, both CBD and THC represent a natural approach to promote calm and mindfulness. Incorporating these cannabinoids into your daily life, in the correct amount, can lead to more intentional, health-focused habits that elevate your sense of well-being.
A Game-Changer for Quitting Alcohol
For anyone seeking a more mindful approach to social drinking, cannabis water and THC seltzers are redefining how we think about “alcohol-free” beverages. These drinks offer an innovative and delicious way to relax without alcohol.
THC drinks allow you to sidestep the downside of alcohol, such as hangovers and excess calories, while still fostering a sense of relaxation and fun. Whether you are hosting a gathering, out socializing with friends, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, they offer a versatile experience that also aligns with your wellness goals.
The one good thing they share with alcohol is dosing.
THC beverages are made using nanoemulsion technology, which breaks down the cannabinoids into tiny molecules that distribute evenly throughout the liquid. So, like the alcohol percentage on a bottle of beer, each can of cannabis water has an exact dose of THC and CBD. Each sip you take is a percentage of that, meaning you can control exactly how you want to feel.
The big difference is that you’ll wake up the next morning feeling refreshed, not groggy!
THC vs. CBD: What Ratio is Right For You?
Finding the perfect balance between CBD and THC begins with understanding your personal goals and preferences. If you’re new to cannabis, starting with low-dose THC options can help you ease into the experience and find your tolerance.
Combining the two cannabinoids is an excellent way to enjoy a more balanced effect, as CBD can help moderate the euphoric properties of THC. That is exactly why we at DELTA have worked on creating our unique formulations.
Our low-dose DELTA Light drinks all have the same 5:1 ratio of THC to CBD, producing a light uplifting sensation that is balanced and manageable even for a canna-curious newbie.
Each can of DELTA Cannabis Water has a slightly different ratio so that more experienced canna-connoisseurs can choose something that best aligns with their preferences:
Passion Fruit
20mg THC Sativa with 2mg CBD.
Sativa is the more uplifting strain of THC so this drink is designed for enhanced focus and motivation.
Blood Orange
20mg THC Indica with 10mg CBD.
Indica is the more relaxing THC strain so is better suited to de-stressing and relaxing after a long day or for helping with pain relief.
Pink Lemonade and Blueberry Acai
20mg THC Hybrid with 5mg CBD.
This hybrid beverage is more sativa dominant with a little bit of indica for a more mellow experience that gives you the best of both worlds.
Every individual’s wellness journey is unique, so experimenting with different ratios and keeping track of how they make you feel can help you tailor the effects to your specific needs.
Why People Turn to THC and CBD
These are some of the most common reasons why so many people now integrate THC and CBD into their daily lives.
Stress Relief
Both CBD and THC have shown promise in helping individuals manage stress3. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote a sense of calm – ideal for those who need relief during the day. THC offers a more pronounced relaxation effect for stress and tension. For those dealing with chronic stress, the right balance of CBD and THC can provide both immediate and long-term relief.
Better Sleep
Sleep issues are a common concern, and CBD and THC each offer unique benefits for improving sleep quality. CBD can help regulate sleep cycles4 and reduce anxiety that can interfere with rest. THC indica is renowned for its relaxing properties and it can be particularly helpful for those struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep. When used together, these cannabinoids can create a comprehensive solution for addressing insomnia5 and promoting deeper sleep.
Pain Management
Chronic pain can significantly impact quality of life, and many people turn to CBD or THC for pain relief as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical painkillers. CBD effectively reduces inflammation6 which is often a root cause of pain. THC interacts with pain receptors in the brain, providing fast-acting relief for acute discomfort with scientific backing for its application for chronic pain7. Together, they can tackle various types of pain, from migraines to muscle soreness, offering a holistic approach to pain management.
Fitness Motivation
Staying motivated to exercise can be a challenge, but cannabis can offer an unexpected boost. CBD helps reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, making recovery quicker and workouts more enjoyable. Low doses of THC can enhance focus and provide a strong energy and morale lift8, making it easier to push through tough workouts. This combination supports both performance and recovery, making it a hushed favorite among active individuals and athletes.
Enhanced Focus
For those who struggle with staying on task, CBD can offer a natural solution by reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity to help create an environment for productivity. Many creative minds throughout history, from Steve Jobs to Lady Gaga9, have cited how THC can enhance creativity and inspiration. When used thoughtfully, these cannabinoids can be great tools for maintaining focus and achieving goals.
Make an Informed Choice
Choosing between CBD and THC (or a combination of both) depends largely on your personal goals and desired outcomes. For beginners, starting with a low dose is often recommended, especially when trying THC for the first time.
The journey to discovering the ratio that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle is a personal one and it may take some experimentation. Whether your focus is on relaxation, creativity, or overall wellness, CBD and THC provide versatile solutions that can adapt to your needs.
We at DELTA are proud to offer a range of premium quality and third-party lab-tested cannabis drinks tailored for different experiences. With precise dosing, plant-based ingredients, and a commitment to wellness, our selection can guide you toward a healthier, more mindful way of enjoying cannabis.
What is THC?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a compound found in cannabis that is responsible for many of its effects, including relaxation and mood enhancement.
What does THC do?
THC can help reduce pain, stress, and nausea. It also promotes relaxation and may enhance creativity and social interactions.
Does CBD need THC to work?
No, CBD can be effective on its own. While combining CBD with THC can provide additional benefits, CBD offers its own unique properties, like reducing stress, managing inflammation, and supporting sleep.
CBD vs THC for anxiety?
CBD is often used to ease anxiety and promote calm, while THC in too high doses may sometimes make anxiety worse. THC in small quantities can help with relaxation depending on individual response and tolerance.
Is CBD a drug?
CBD is not considered a drug in the traditional sense. It’s a natural compound found in cannabis, often used for wellness purposes like stress relief and better sleep.
Is CBD psychoactive?
No, CBD does not cause any impairment or alter your perception.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7605027/#:~:text=Cannabis%20was%20attested%20to%20around,the%20migration%20of%20nomadic%20peoples.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425767/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032718303100#:~:text=Cannabis%20significantly%20reduced%20ratings%20of,reducing%20perceived%20symptoms%20of%20stress.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36149724/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36539991/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7023045/#:~:text=Clinical%20studies%20have%20confirmed%20that,of%20immune%20cells%20%5B66%5D.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574562/
- https://www.colorado.edu/today/2024/01/03/study-cannabis-can-make-workouts-more-fun-its-no-performance-enhancer#:~:text=Home-,Study%3A%20Cannabis%20can%20make%20workouts%20more%20fun,but%20it%27s%20no%20performance-enhancer\&text=A%20bit%20of%20weed%20before,best%20to%20skip%20that%20joint
- https://hbr.org/2022/10/research-does-cannabis-really-make-you-more-creative
