THC vs CBD on Cannabis Labels: What the Numbers Mean

If you read a few cannabis labels, two abbreviations show up almost every time: THC and CBD. They are the best-known compounds in the plant, and the numbers next to them are some of the most useful information on the package. They are also easy to misread, especially when one label uses percentages and another uses milligrams. This guide explains what THC and CBD are, how they differ, how to read the numbers, and what to keep in mind for safety.

Quick takeaways

• THC is the cannabinoid primarily responsible for the effects of cannabis on mental state.

• CBD is a different cannabinoid. It is not known to cause those same mental effects, but it can have side effects and can interact with other medications.

• Flower is usually labeled with a percentage, while edibles and many other products use milligrams, so check which unit you are reading.

• Always check whether a number refers to one serving or the whole package.

• Registered patients should talk with a clinician about any cannabis use, especially when taking other medications.

What THC and CBD are

THC and CBD are the two main cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, and more than 100 other cannabinoids have been identified. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, THC is primarily responsible for the effects of marijuana on mental state, while CBD is not known to cause those effects in the same way. The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes delta-9 THC as the main intoxicating compound and notes that THC can temporarily change mood, thoughts and perception.

CBD is often described as non-intoxicating, and it appears in many products outside of dispensaries. That does not make it harmless. NCCIH lists possible side effects including decreased alertness, mood changes, decreased appetite and digestive upset, and it notes that CBD use has been linked to liver injury and to interactions with other medications. NIDA also warns that some CBD products contain different amounts of CBD than their labels state, and some contain THC.

It is also worth knowing how regulators treat these compounds. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration states that hemp is defined in federal law as cannabis with no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis. NCCIH adds that the FDA has not approved the cannabis plant for any medical use, although it has approved a purified CBD prescription medicine for certain seizure conditions and some synthetic THC-related prescription medicines. Those are regulated drugs, which is a different category from dispensary products.

How to read the numbers

Percentages and milligrams measure different things. A percentage, common on flower and concentrates, describes the share of the product's weight made up of that cannabinoid. Milligrams, common on edibles, tinctures and many vape products, describe the amount of the cannabinoid in the product or in a serving. A number is only meaningful once you know which unit it uses and what it refers to.

Pay close attention to serving size. An edible might list a milligram amount for the whole package and a different amount for each serving. If you are not sure, ask staff before you decide. Our guide to edibles, dosing and onset explains why this matters, since edible effects take longer to appear, which can lead people to take more than they intended. NIDA makes the same point about edibles.

Some products show both THC and CBD, sometimes as a ratio such as one to one. A ratio tells you the relative amounts, not the total amount, so look at the actual numbers as well. Higher THC is not automatically better. NIDA notes that dispensary flower and concentrates can exceed 40 percent THC, that higher THC levels are associated with a greater likelihood of developing cannabis use disorder, and that anxiety, fear or panic are more likely with high doses, strong products or inexperienced use. For many newer shoppers, a lower-THC option and a small starting amount is a practical place to begin.

Finally, look past the cannabinoid line to the rest of the label. A batch or package date and a reference to testing help you understand what is in your hands, and staff can usually help you find the details. If something on the label is unclear, that is a good moment to ask a question rather than guess.

Safety points worth remembering

Cannabis impairs skills needed for safe driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that cannabis impairs reaction time, decision-making, coordination and perception and suggests not driving after using it. Plan a ride in advance.

Keep products locked up and out of sight of children and pets. The CDC notes that edibles pose a higher risk of accidental poisoning than smoked cannabis, and that some packaging can look like familiar snacks. Our article on purchase limits, storage and responsible use offers practical steps.

If you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, talk with your clinician before using any cannabinoid product. We cover the kinds of questions to bring in cannabis and your medications. Do not use cannabis products to delay seeing a health care provider about a health concern.

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your clinician first. NIDA notes that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises against cannabis use during all three.

Shopping with Best Stop

Best Stop is a licensed medical cannabis dispensary in Columbia Heights serving eligible registered patients and caregivers, with pickup and DC-only delivery. You can browse edibles, vapes and other categories online, and our team can help you find the cannabinoid information on any product. Best Stop does not issue patient registrations. Registration is handled by the District's Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration, and our get a card page explains where to start. We do not give medical advice, so please bring health questions to your clinician.

Frequently asked questions

Which one makes you feel high, THC or CBD?

THC is the cannabinoid primarily responsible for the effects on mental state. CBD is not known to cause those effects in the same way, though it can have side effects of its own.

Is a higher THC percentage always stronger for me?

A higher percentage generally means more THC by weight, but your experience also depends on how much you use, the product type, your tolerance and your circumstances. Start small and go slowly.

What does a one-to-one ratio mean?

It means the product contains similar amounts of THC and CBD. Check the milligram numbers too, because the ratio alone does not tell you how much is in each serving.

Can CBD interact with my medications?

It can. The FDA and NCCIH both note possible drug interactions. Ask your clinician before using any cannabinoid product if you take medications.

This article is for general education for adults 21 and over and registered patients. It is not medical or legal advice. DC rules can change, so please confirm current requirements with the District's Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration and speak with your clinician about your own situation.