Understanding the difference between CBD and THC is key — not just for consumers, but for compliance, legality, and payment processing too. Below we break it down in a way that’s easy to read, backed by legislation, and SEO-friendly.
🔍 What Are CBD and THC?
Both CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) come from the cannabis plant.
That’s where the similarity ends.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
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Non-psychoactive (won’t make you “high”)
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Commonly used as part of a general wellness routine
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Legal in South Africa when specific rules are followed
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
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Psychoactive (responsible for the “high” feeling)
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Strictly regulated
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Not legally sold as a general consumer product
👉 Key takeaway: CBD and THC are not the same — and the law treats them very differently.
❓ Will CBD Make Me Feel High?
No.
CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not cause intoxication or impairment.
In South Africa, legally sold CBD products must contain:
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Less than 0.001% THC
At these levels, THC has no psychoactive effect.
⚖️ Is CBD Legal in South Africa?
Yes — but only if it meets specific legal requirements.
According to South African law and guidance from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), CBD products may be sold without a prescription only if they meet certain conditions.
✅ Legal CBD products must:
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Contain ≤ 0.001% THC
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Not exceed 20 mg of CBD per daily dose
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Make no medical or therapeutic claims
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Be marketed as wellness or lifestyle products
When these conditions are met, CBD products fall under Schedule 0, meaning they can be sold online and in retail stores.
🚫 Why Is THC Treated Differently?
THC is psychoactive, which means it affects the brain and nervous system.
Because of this:
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THC is classified under higher schedules of the Medicines and Related Substances Act
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THC products generally require medical prescriptions and special authorisation
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They cannot be sold freely online as consumer goods
👉 This is why reputable CBD stores clearly state their THC limits and provide lab testing.
🧪 What Does “THC < 0.001%” Actually Mean?
It means:
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THC is present only in trace amounts
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The product is non-psychoactive
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It complies with South African consumer CBD regulations
This threshold is critical for:
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Legal compliance
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Consumer safety
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Acceptance by payment providers
📄 What Is a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a lab report that shows exactly what’s inside a CBD product.
A proper COA confirms:
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CBD content
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THC percentage
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Product purity and safety
Reputable CBD retailers make COAs available because they:
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Prove compliance
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Build customer trust
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Show transparency
❓ Why Does the CBD vs THC Difference Matter to You?
Understanding the difference helps you:
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Know what you’re buying
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Avoid illegal or mislabelled products
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Shop confidently from compliant stores
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Understand why some products are restricted
It also explains why legitimate CBD retailers:
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Avoid medical claims
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Emphasise lab testing
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Clearly state THC limits
📌 Common Myths (Cleared Up)
“CBD is just another word for cannabis.”
→ ❌ False. CBD and THC are different compounds with different legal status.
“CBD products can get you high.”
→ ❌ Not if they’re legally compliant.
“All cannabis products are illegal.”
→ ❌ CBD products are legal within defined limits.
🧠 Final Thoughts
CBD and THC may come from the same plant, but they are not the same substance — legally, chemically, or functionally.
In South Africa:
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CBD can be sold legally when compliant
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THC is tightly controlled
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Transparency, lab testing, and compliance matter
Knowing the difference helps you make informed, responsible choices.
