Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC, Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a chemical compound found in plants of the cannabis genus and is the psychoactive compound that gives you the feeling of being ‘high’. While THC is found in all cannabis plants, hemp plants contain lower amounts of THC and higher amounts of CBD. THC THC binds to the cannabinoid (CB1) receptors in the brain which actually create the high. To give you the ‘high’ sensation, THC mimics the natural chemical anandamide, which is produced in your brain. The natural experience that people get, which is similar to a THC high is known as ‘runner’s high’.

THC can be consumed by smoking cannabis or via most of the other popular forms such as edibles, hash, oils and tinctures. While CBD is most often thought to have the medicinal properties, THC is currently being used to help with conditions including:

  • Anxiety
  • Glaucoma
  • Insomnia
  • Low appetite
  • Pain

In Australia, the only way you’re able to consume any cannabis product that contains more than 50mg/kg of cannabinoids (CBD or THC) is with a prescription.