THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Also known as: Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta-9 THC
Pronunciation: /tet-rah-hi-droh-kan-NAB-ih-nol/
THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive 'high' associated with marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD products may contain up to 0.3% THC under federal law.
Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the intoxicating effects classically associated with cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) does not bind to CB1 receptors directly and is not intoxicating.
The 2018 Farm Bill defines hemp as cannabis containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. Anything above that threshold is classified as marijuana under federal law. Full-spectrum CBD products contain trace THC under this 0.3% threshold; broad-spectrum products have THC removed.
Related terms
- CBD (Cannabidiol)CBD is one of more than 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a 'high.'
- Full Spectrum CBDFull spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids and terpenes naturally present in the hemp plant, including up to 0.3% THC.
- Broad Spectrum CBDBroad spectrum CBD contains the full cannabinoid and terpene profile of the hemp plant with the THC removed.
- Drug TestWorkplace drug tests typically screen for THC metabolites. Pure CBD is not on standard drug-test panels — but full-spectrum CBD with trace THC can produce positive results.