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Ayonrinde says CBD’s ability to regulate THC interactions with the brain makes it useful in controlling the psychoactive effects, comparing the chemical transaction to that of a car’s transmission system: “THC is the accelerator, CBD is the brakes.”

CBD’s widely recognized attributes, in the way of pain management, muscle relaxation and a myriad of other patient desirables, make it the go-to for symptom relief that avoids the euphoric effect produced by THC. Conversely, recreational strains tend to focus on the ratio of THC to CBD; with a 2:1 ratio being the most potent. The higher that number on the left, the “higher” you can expect to feel.

Regulated vs. unregulated product

Ayonrinde holds a skeptical view of the recreational products sold through dispensaries and other less-than-legal sources. “Grey market cannabis on the whole consists of a broad range of cannabis containing compounds.” Meanwhile, the consistency and ratios of THC and CBD in recreational cannabis can also be difficult to verify. “In some instances, claims of the content are made which on subsequent testing are inaccurate.”

Aside from chemical proportions, the difference between the two is more or less what consumers plan to use them for. “Medical cannabis is not a different substance or product than recreational cannabis, regardless of source,” says Rielle Capler, a cannabis researcher and PhD candidate at the University of BC. “It’s more a matter of the motivation for use.”