HC vs CBD, What’s the Difference June 2, 2017 The key differences between THC and CBD are subtle and mostly only interesting to scientists. Most users are happy to know that THC causes the big bang in the buzz, and CBD makes you alert and hungry. Cannabis strains are typically chosen based on the effects that users want. But, THC and CBD co-exist in countless combinations and ratios, it creates a great variety of experiences and a shopping experience. THC and CBD are chemical compounds in cannabis. More specifically, they are released as terpenes, the source of cannabis aroma.