CBD, THC, CBG: What Are the Differences Between Cannabis Molecules?
CBD, THC, CBG: What Are the Differences Between Cannabis Molecules?
CBD, THC, CBG… these cannabinoids have very different effects. Learn about their roles, legal status, and uses with clarity and simplicity.
Cannabis is far more than a single compound. This plant contains dozens of active substances known as cannabinoids, with THC, CBD, and increasingly CBG being the most well-known. But how do they actually affect our bodies? Are they legal? And what makes them different? Here’s a clear, straightforward overview.
1. THC: The Psychoactive Molecule
Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most famous—and most controversial—cannabinoid. It produces the well-known "high" by binding directly to CB1 receptors in the brain.
- Effects: euphoria, altered perception, relaxation (or sometimes anxiety)
- Legal status: strictly banned in France, with rare exceptions for medical use
- Uses: highly regulated; legal for therapeutic or recreational use in certain countries
2. CBD: Natural Stress Relief Without the High
Cannabidiol (CBD) has no psychoactive effects. It acts indirectly on the endocannabinoid system and is widely recognized for its relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety properties.
- Effects: relaxation, reduced anxiety, improved sleep
- Legal status: fully legal in France (if extracted from approved strains and THC-free)
- Uses: oils, teas, skincare, wellness products
3. CBG: The Promising “Parent” Molecule
Cannabigerol (CBG) is still relatively unknown, but interest is growing. Often referred to as the “mother” molecule, it is the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Early research suggests promising effects.
- Effects: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, appetite-stimulating
- Legal status: permitted in France if THC levels remain within legal limits
- Uses: mainly in oil form or combined with CBD
4. Other Cannabinoids Under Study
Beyond these three, other cannabinoids such as CBN (cannabinol) and CBC (cannabichromene) are being investigated for their potential benefits. The research field is vast and rapidly evolving.
THC, CBD, and CBG each serve a unique purpose, with distinct effects and legal frameworks. By staying informed, we can better understand cannabis today—as a wellness tool, a subject of medical research, and a highly regulated substance.