We now have a wide variety of possibilities to pick from as a result of the legalization of cannabis in more and more states. One of the most important decisions to be made while dealing with this "dilemma" is the degree of THC you want to use.
The main psychoactive component of cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol, sometimes known as THC, is what many people (wrongly) assume provides you with your desired "high."
What does the THC percentage actually signify, then? Turns out, it only measures the proportion of THC to other cannabinoids and cannabis constituents in the strain sample. While this definitely is interesting, yes, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a superior high.
Get this: it’s not only the THC content that determines the potency of a cannabis strain. Terpenes and cannabinoids also play a big role in the size of the punch it packs.
So how can you determine your own ideal THC level? Since the THC concentration of a product can range from extremely low to extremely high, this can be a bit problematic.
No fear, stick with us. In this blog post we’ll take a close look at all the factors that contribute to the herb’s potency, delve into the differences between low-THC and high-THC cannabis products, and help you decide which one is best for you.
Understanding the Factors that Determine Cannabis Potency
The cannabis plant is more of a complex organism than you might have given it credit for. It actually comprises many facets, including terpenes and cannabinoids, which all work together to determine its strength when ingested.
So cannabis has more than 150 types of terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds in the plant that influence how different strains smell, look and taste. Although terpenes aren’t intoxicating on their own, they interact with other elements in the plant to produce an “entourage effect”. In fact, terpenes can sometimes play a more important role than THC in determining a strain’s effects. For example, the terpene myrcene is known for its calming and anxiety-reducing effects.
Cannabinoids are another class of compounds that are found in the cannabis plant and also have varying levels of psychoactivity. They play a big role in how THC interacts with your brain, influencing a strain’s overall effect.
In terms of intensity, although a high THC content does make can make a big difference in how potent the effects of the cannabis will be, the total high is really influenced by the particular ratio of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other substances in the plant. You may choose a strain that fulfills your wants and expectations by being better aware of how all these elements interact.
Low-THC Cannabis Products
So what precisely are these? Low-THC cannabis products are those that contain less than 15% THC (by weight), according to our terminology. People frequently utilize them due to their possible medicinal effects, making them highly popular.
One of the most prevalent cannabinoids to be discovered in cannabis products with low THC levels is cannabidiol, or CBD. Numerous health advantages, such as decreased anxiety and inflammation, pain reduction, and better sleep, have been linked to this. CBG, CBN, and CBC are three other cannabinoids that have been found in low-THC products; each of these compounds has a unique potential medicinal impact.
One of the great things about low-THC products is that they’re way less likely to have any negative side effects. So there’s a much smaller chance that you’ll feel paranoid, anxious, or get a “stoned” feeling. This means they’re an excellent choice for those of you who want to reap all the benefits cannabis has to offer, without going through all the psychoactive sensations associated with high-THC products
As we see again, the strength and efficacy of a cannabis strain is not only decided by its THC content. A strain that has a lower THC content, but the right terpene profile, can still be potent and effective. People with a higher tolerance may need to ingest a slightly larger quantity, while those with a lower tolerance would probably rather choose the option of a smaller dosage range to experience effects that are more manageable.
High-THC Cannabis Products
On the other hand, high-THC cannabis products are the main source of the psychoactive effects that consumers often associate with cannabis usage and have more than 20% THC by weight. Customers may experience a variety of effects, including feeling calm, ecstatic, even worried and paranoid. Your specific degree of tolerance and the dose you take both play a role.
High-THC compounds are widely used for recreational purposes, but they also have a number of potential medicinal uses. In patients with particular medical problems, THC has been found to offer pain-relieving effects, to lessen nausea and vomiting, and to increase appetite.
There generally is a strong connection between a specific strain’s THC content and potency level, which means that you could potentially ingest less and still feel the desired effects. But it’s still really important to consider the THC content of a strain alongside other factors, such as terpenes, to determine the most suitable dosage for your needs.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Product for Your Needs
This all depends on your specific needs and preferences. A low-THC product might be a better choice for you if you’re looking for an option based more on its potential therapeutic benefits. Alternatively, if psychoactive effects are what you’re after, a high-THC product would be your best bet.
But don’t forget to take all the potential side effects into account when making your choice. It’s also usually better to start with a low dosage, and then gradually increase it as need be. This will help negate any detrimental effects and ensure that you get the most benefit from your product of choice.
Don’t forget about your supply source! This is a crucial aspect that you should keep in mind while buying cannabis. Look for items that have undergone testing from a third-party lab, and be careful to confirm the reputation of the provider in the market. This makes it more likely that you will receive a high-quality item that fulfills your needs and expectations.
THC is only one factor to take into account when deciding which cannabis product to utilize. The effects you experience and how long they last may both be significantly influenced by your preferred method of consumption. When you smoke or vape, for instance, you can experience the effects practically immediately. In contrast, the drug generally takes longer to start working and lasts longer when you ingest edibles. Choosing a consuming style that complements your hobbies and way of life is therefore essential.
The Bottom Line
As a result, selecting the ideal cannabis product for your need necessitates careful consideration of a number of variables, including THC level, ingestion style, and strain variety. While high-THC products may be a better fit for people desiring the psychoactive effects related to cannabis usage, low-THC products may be an ideal choice for those seeking possible therapeutic benefits without the euphoric symptoms. To guarantee that you receive a high-quality product that fits your needs and expectations, it is essential to start with a modest dose and select a reliable provider, regardless of the product you choose.
Sources:
https://getfluent.com/power-in-potency-the-truth-about-high-vs-low-thc/
https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy
Monique Demes
Copywriter at CanMar