THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is responsible for many of the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis. It binds to the body’s cannabinoid receptors and affects memory, thinking, movement, coordination, and sensory perception.
Unlike alcohol, THC concentrations in the blood do not correlate to impairment. THC takes only a short time in the watery blood before absorbing into fat and oil tissues.
What Makes a Strain High?
While the amount of THC in a strain is essential, it is not the only factor determining whether or how highest THC strains get high a person will feel after using cannabis. Other cannabinoids and terpenes also play a role in how marijuana affects us.
THC is the cannabinoid most known for its psychoactive effects, but many other cannabinoids have been found to offer unique therapeutic benefits. For example, THCA (tetrahydrocannabinol acid) is a non-psychoactive compound that may reduce the symptoms of inflammatory diseases and autoimmune conditions like arthritis and MS. CBG (cannabidiol) has been shown to help ease the anxiety that often comes with depression.
Another important consideration is the ratio of THC to CBD in a strain, which can affect the balance between body high and head high. A higher THC concentration can produce more intense feelings of relaxation, while lower THC levels can promote a more energetic experience.
The best way to know how potent a strain will be is to try it yourself. But before you do, consider your tolerance level and the effects you seek. For novices, starting with low THC strains is a good idea, and working your way up to more powerful ones as you build up a comfort level with the drug. This will prevent you from developing the “too high” feeling caused by overconsumption and increased THC levels.
Sativa
Cannabis has 100s of chemical compounds, including THC and CBD, that interact with your endocannabinoid system to produce different effects. It’s also filled with aromatic compounds known as terpenes. The terpenes, along with the cannabinoids, are responsible for the ‘entourage effect’ that creates the experience of smoking marijuana.
Sativa strains are often associated with energizing, uplifting highs. They are often used to enhance creativity and stimulate thinking. Some people even use sativa to focus during the day. These effects may be due to the high concentration of THC or the terpenes, like Limonene and Caryophyllene, found in this strain.
Sativas also relieve anxiety and depression, especially in those with ADHD or other mood disorders. They are commonly used to boost energy and motivation and alleviate pain in those with chronic illnesses. The THC content of this strain is lower but still high enough to produce a stimulating effect. Its primary terpene is Limonene. This is one of the most popular sativa strains in the world, and it is loved for its stimulating high. It boosts creativity and is a favorite of artists who want to boost their inspiration. It is also great for relieving anxiety and easing stress. Many growers offer hybrids that contain a combination of Indica and Sativa strains. The ratio of each will determine the exact effects you feel.
Indica
Although cannabis enthusiasts pay close attention to the amounts of cannabinoids, especially CBD and THC, it’s not just those chemicals that determine how a strain makes you feel. Several other compounds called terpenes contribute to the overall experience.
Indica strains often have a relaxing effect, and doctors prescribe them as muscle relaxants or sleep aids. They’re often stouter in appearance than sativas and have broader leaves that grow together rather than spread out like fingers. Indicas can also contain higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but the distinction between indica and sativa shouldn’t be the basis for choosing cannabis.
It’s difficult to tell what percentage of THC a strain contains by sight or taste alone. Moreover, THC potency can vary widely between labs. The only way to get a precise THC reading is to send your strain to a professional chemistry lab, which can cost hundreds of euros.
You can find high-THC strains with up to 25% THC, but many experts recommend starting lower and slowly increasing your THC intake over time so you don’t have any unpleasant side effects. Newcomers to cannabis should avoid high-THC products until they’ve had a chance to become comfortable with the effects and build up a tolerance. The most important thing for any consumer is to choose a product that addresses their specific health issues and provides relief without triggering unwanted effects.
Hybrid
Cannabis plants contain dozens of chemical compounds called cannabinoids, which are responsible for a wide range of effects. The most famous is tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. The prominent psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana, THC, causes users to experience euphoria. Depending on the strain, THC levels can vary significantly.
In general, sativa strains are known for their energizing effects, and indices are known for their calming properties. But hybrids can have both Sativa and Indica effects, making them a popular choice for people looking to experience a balance of energy and relaxation.
Hybrids can be sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant, depending on the parent strains used to create them. If a strain is sativa-dominant, it will have more sativa effects than indica. This means you’ll feel more of the uplifting and euphoric feelings that sativa strains are known for but with a relaxing body high.
An Indica-dominant hybrid will have more of the calming and sleepy effects of Indica. These are great for people who need help falling asleep or want to relieve stress and anxiety. There are also many 50/50 hybrids, which have a more balanced effect between indica and sativa. These are ideal for new or experienced patients. One example is Gorilla Glue, an Indica-dominant hybrid with a THC level of around 23 percent. It’s reportedly a slow-building effect that produces euphoria and relaxation before leading to a strong case of munchies or sleepiness.
