Does THC Percentage Matter?
There is a myth in the cannabis industry that the higher the THC percentage, the more potent a product. However, new research shows this isn’t always true.
A study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) analyzed the link between THC content and intoxication effects. Surprisingly, they found that while high-potency cannabis boosts blood levels of THC, it doesn’t necessarily get you higher.
If this comes as a surprise, you’re not alone. Most consumers, whether they’re chronic pain patients trying to cope or recreational users looking for a good time, are simply trying to get the most bang for their buck.
These purchasing habits are best seen by the type of flower stocked in dispensaries. High-THC strains dominate dispensary shelves, and data shows that high-THC flower accounts for nearly half (45%) of flower sales.
It seems logical, but the truth is that THC percentage is not a good indicator of potency – and certainly not quality. Potency, like most aspects of cannabis, is complex.
Why there’s more to consider
THC is the chemical that makes us feel high, but it’s not the only compound at play. In fact, THC is only one of the 100 known cannabinoids in marijuana. When we smoke, those cannabinoids, plus hundreds of other botanical compounds such as terpenes, enter our system. Each of these has unique properties and benefits that change, alter, and enhance our experience. This synergetic relationship is known as the entourage effect, and it’s what makes cannabis so complex.
When certain cannabinoids are paired together, they can reduce each other’s effects – while other combinations can boost them. This is one of the reasons why the THC percentage is not an effective measure of potency.
Each strain, regardless of THC content, has its own terpene and cannabinoid profile that alters your experience. For example, if someone is looking for a pain remedy, they might try the strongest flower available. However, instead of THC, the strain that will help them the most will likely have a higher percentage of CBD, CBN, or anti-inflammatory terpenes like limonene.
Good weed depends on your ideal “high”
Not every cannabis user is looking for the same experience. Additionally, what makes a good “high” is subjective altogether. A good experience for one user might be a mellow, euphoric high, while someone else might be looking for couch-pinning sedative effects.
The same applies to alcohol. When you go to purchase a bottle of alcohol, what do you consider first? Do you choose based on the company, the type of liquor or wine, how it tastes, or the setting which you’ll consume?
If people purchased alcohol the same way most do cannabis, then Everclear would be the go-to choice for every occasion.
When cannabis users purchase based solely on THC content, they are ignoring not only the aromas and flavors of a strain, but also missing out on the beneficial effects that can be delivered through a strain’s specific terpene profile.
How to find the right cannabis products for your needs
Cannabis is not one-size-fits-all. Your preferences and individual body chemistry will ultimately dictate what products best suit your needs, but there are a few steps you can take to find the perfect ones.
- Research high-quality growers: Brands become well-known because of their consistency in quality, taste, and effectiveness. If you’re unsure where to start, a good place is by researching what’s popular.
- Know the experience you’re seeking: Are you looking for something to aid with sleep, ease anxiety, or boost creativity? Do you prefer something discreet and odorless? Do you want something with a quick onset or something you can ease into? Understanding your preferences will help you greatly in finding the right products.
- Understand how cannabis affects the body: Consumption method, cannabinoid profile, and strain type have different effects on the body. If you’re looking to learn, we have tons of reading material to search through.
When in doubt, phone a friend! At Green, our budtenders have the knowledge, expertise, and experience to help you navigate the menu. Whatever your needs, our team is happy to answer any questions you may have. Visit us in-store or contact us online for all additional information.
