Many cannabis enthusiasts and home growers focus solely on the THC percentage of their strain. However, other important qualities exist that can greatly impact the overall experience and benefits of the plant. Understanding the misconceptions about THC percentage helps people discover what truly makes a cannabis strain superior.
Understanding THC Percentage
The THC percentage refers to the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol found in the cannabis plant. It is expressed as a percentage of the plant’s weight. As the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC delivers the “high” sensation. Though the THC level does impact the intensity of the high, it does not necessarily determine the quality or the beneficial properties of the strain.
Cannabis THC levels affect each individual differently. Personal tolerance, metabolism, and even genetics can influence how THC impacts a person. High-THC strains can potentially induce adverse effects such as paranoia and anxiety in some individuals, particularly in those who are new to cannabis or have a lower tolerance.
The consumption method also plays a significant role in how the THC percentage affects the user. For example, the effects of THC are generally more potent when it is ingested (as in edibles) compared to when it is smoked or vaped.
9 Cannabis Qualities More Important Than THC Percentage
Consider these qualities before choosing your strain.
Quality 1: CBD Content
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of the over 100 chemical compounds found in cannabis plants. Contrary to THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn't cause the “high” frequently associated with cannabis. CBD carries numerous potential health benefits, including relieving pain and reducing anxiety and depression. It is also promising in neurological disorders research.
THC and CBD can act together in what's known as the "entourage effect." They can each have their individual effects enhanced or modulated by the presence of the other. For instance, CBD can counterbalance the psychoactive effects of THC, resulting in a more balanced and less anxiety-provoking experience.
Quality 2: Terpene Profile
Apart from cannabinoids like THC and CBD, cannabis is also rich in terpenes. These volatile organic compounds give cannabis its distinctive flavors and scents. From the citrusy aroma of limonene to the pine scent of pinene, terpenes can significantly enhance the sensory experience of consuming cannabis.
Terpenes are also believed to have a myriad of therapeutic benefits. A diverse terpene profile is suggested to have a synergistic effect with cannabinoids, contributing to the aforementioned "entourage effect."
Quality 3: Cannabinoid Profile
A strain's cannabinoid profile refers to the types and ratios of different cannabinoids present in a cannabis plant. Apart from THC and CBD, numerous other cannabinoids exist, such as CBG, CBC, and CBN, all of which have unique potential health benefits.
Studies suggest that cannabinoids such as CBG can act as potent anti-inflammatory agents, while CBN is being studied for its potential sedative properties. On the other hand, CBC is believed to contribute to pain relief. The presence and concentration of these cannabinoids are vital elements that define the quality and potential benefits of a cannabis strain.
Quality 4: Strain Type
There are three main types of cannabis strains: indica, sativa, and hybrid. Indica strains are believed to provide a relaxing, body-centered effect and are best used at night. Sativa strains, conversely, are known for their uplifting, cerebral effects and are typically consumed during the day. Hybrids carry characteristics of both their parent strains and can be either Indica or Sativa dominant.
Different strain types offer varying experiences and benefits. While Sativa strains can promote creativity and socialization, Indicas are known for their calming effects, making them ideal for relaxation and sleep. Hybrid strains also provide a unique combination of effects from both types.
Quality 5: Growing Techniques
Different growing techniques, like indoor vs. outdoor, soil vs. hydroponics, and the use of organic vs. synthetic nutrients, can significantly influence cannabis quality. Organic and sustainable growing methods, which avoid the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, often result in a safer and higher-quality product.
Growing techniques can also affect the plant’s cannabinoid and terpene profiles. For instance, outdoor-grown cannabis can develop a more diverse terpene profile thanks to exposure to natural elements. In contrast, indoor growing allows for greater control over environmental variables, potentially leading to higher cannabinoid concentrations.
Quality 6: Harvest and Curing Process
Harvesting is the process of picking mature cannabis flowers for consumption after allowing the plant to reach its peak cannabinoid and terpene content. Once harvested, the cannabis is dried and cured—carefully controlled processes to remove moisture while preserving the plant's beneficial compounds.
The timing of the harvest can greatly affect the quality of cannabis. Harvesting too early might result in lower THC levels and less developed terpenes, leading to a less satisfying experience. On the other hand, late harvests can lead to overly sedative effects.
The curing process also significantly impacts the final product's quality, influencing the taste, smell, and overall experience of the cannabis. Poorly cured cannabis can develop mold or mildew, degrading the product's quality and safety.
Quality 7: Pesticide and Chemical Use
The use of chemical pesticides, fungicides, and fertilizers in cannabis production can potentially lead to harmful residues in the final product, posing health risks to the user. These chemicals can contaminate the plant's natural compounds, impacting the overall cannabis experience.
Quality 8: Genetic Quality
Cannabis strains with superior genetic qualities often produce a superior user experience. They exhibit consistent cannabinoid and terpene profiles, ensuring a predictable set of benefits and effects. Strains with strong genetics are also more likely to yield healthy, vigorous plants during cultivation, leading to a higher-quality final product.
Quality 9: Freshness
The potency and effectiveness of cannabis can degrade over time. The freshness of cannabis is primarily determined by its harvest date and how it’s been stored since. Aging cannabis can undergo cannabinoid degradation, turning psychoactive THC into less active CBN, while the terpenes, which provide flavor and aroma, may also diminish.
Proper storage and handling can significantly extend the freshness of cannabis. Storing cannabis in a cool, dark, and dry environment can help retain its terpene and cannabinoid profiles. Hence, the freshness of a cannabis strain is a factor that, like many others, goes beyond the THC percentage to define the overall quality.
Looking Beyond THC Percentage When Considering Cannabis Quality
By looking beyond just the THC content of a cannabis strain or product, growers, sellers, and consumers alike can explore and appreciate the full spectrum of benefits and experiences that cannabis has to offer.
At Kind Seed Co., we are staunch advocates for this broader perspective on cannabis quality. We continually strive to provide our customers with the knowledge and guidance they need to understand and appreciate the intricate world of cannabis beyond just its THC content. Our ultimate goal is to encourage and enable a more discerning, informed approach to cannabis cultivation and consumption. Remember, when it comes to cannabis, it's not just about the THC percentage. The real magic lies in the symphony of all the other qualities that make this plant so unique and beneficial.
Discover more about cannabis quality, cultivation, and consumption with our extensive resources, and step into a world of cannabis that is rich, nuanced, and full of potential. At Kind Seed Co., we appreciate and enjoy cannabis in its full glory because, when it comes to cannabis, we believe in quality in all its forms.
